The Eagles have an almighty challenge ahead of them, despite their crucial victory over Middlesbrough on Saturday.
Crystal Palace manager Sam Allardyce
Saturday’s victory over Middlesbrough was a major result for Sam Allardyce and Crystal Palace. Following a disastrous run of form, which suggested that Big Sam was in the most danger of relegation in his managerial career, this undeniable six-pointer has done everything to restore the confidence around Selhurst Park.
However, despite the likes of Paul Merson claiming that the Eagles will not go down, there is still a very long way to go, and the fixture list is not looking kind for Allardyce and co.
With 12 games left until the end of the season, Palace still have games to play against Arsenal, Spurs, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City and Manchester United. Their next trip, an away match against West Brom, will also be a big challenge.
Though a win against a fellow relegation struggler should be by no means undervalued, Palace are still very much stuck in the battle at the bottom.
The clean sheet from the win over Middlesbrough has to be built on, and the Hawthorns will be a big indicator of the club’s potential to push on or whether the Eagles will be in danger up until May.
They do have goal difference on their side, having scored more than their closest rivals, and they will have to hope the arrival of Mamadou Sakho on loan from Liverpool can help plug the leaks in defence.
Arguably, they should focus on winnable games, with upcoming fixtures against Watford, Burnley, and a crucial May home game against Hull.
Crystal Palace’s Wilfried Zaha in action with Middlesbrough’s Gaston Ramirez
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