Palace boss Freedman: Show Derby spirit against Doncaster and we’ll win

Crystal Palace manager Dougie Freedman was delighted with the spirit his side showed in their 3-2 defeat to Derby County yesterday and called on his side to continue this as they look to return to winning ways against Doncaster on Tuesday.

The Rams cruised into a 3-0 lead thanks to goals from Steve Davies, Jeff Hendrik and Theo Robinson’s penalty before Chris Martin and Darren Ambrose set up a grandstand finish.

“We unfortunately didn’t start too good which is unlike us,” he said. “I felt the first 30 minutes was crucial to the game and Derby were definitely on top. We had to make a few changes at half-time due to injuries and then gave away a sloppy penalty.

“But I thought the lads dug in and showed the great spirit they have and we almost got something out of the game which I don’t think would have been deserved.

“But the spirit they have got, they never know when they are beaten and it was unfortunate we couldn’t get that goal and get to 3-3 but it was probably down to the start we made.

“That was the first time we have been beaten in 10 games so it’s about how we respond and deal with it. There were lots of encouraging moments for me I’m confident we can go on another run.”