BY AYODELE ODUMADE AT SELHURST PARK

The Crystal Palace manager was happy with his team’s performance despite their goalless draw against Newcastle United at home.  The Eagles are yet to win at home this season while the Toon Army are still looking for their first win of the season.

 He said: “It was a frustrating afternoon because we created enough chances. We were solid at the back.  I am not disappointed because I think we were good from start to finish but we came across an organised Newcastle team. When those chances came our way we missed one or two.”

Their star man Wilfried Zaha had been in the news last week due to his complaints the lack of protection from referees.  Hodgson said: “Wilfried is feeling something at the top of his back but was passed fit by the physiotherapist. He had no desire to miss the game. I am hoping it is something that will not make him miss the game during the week. I think his comments affected him. I don’t think he expected his comments would be treated the way they were. I would have thought if he had a quiet game today it is because we rely on him. I think he would have preferred a quiet week about football rather than his quotes. The spasm he had in the warm up could have affected him too.

I feel a bit sorry for myself because I could have been sitting here happy that we have 6 points from two games but it is four.”

 The Newcastle manager Rafa Benitez was glad that his team were able to stop the rot. He said: “We knew before the game that it could be difficult. They are strong and have quality in the middle of the pitch. Their full backs go forward and they have experience. There players upfront could also make a difference. We were defending well. We had situations on the counter attack but we were very slow. In the second half they were pushing harder and we had to defend. We need to show teamwork as a unit and fight for each other and we did with a clean sheet.  We were missing the final pass. I said before that you can play  a top six side and be perfect and still lose. When you play these kind of team you have to work hard. We made two or three mistakes, which could have cost us but we got a clean sheet.

Our fans away have been outstanding. We have 52,000 fans at home and they have to support us even if you make a wrong substitution. It is important that they back the team.”