Glasner Breathes Easy as Palace End Drought at Brighton's Expense

Crystal Palace have handed Oliver Glasner a lifeline with a clinical 1-0 victory at Brighton, leaving Fabian Hürzeler's side staring down the barrel of a 12th consecutive Premier League game without a win.

Ismaila Sarr's second-half finish was the difference-maker, ending Palace's barren run across all competitions that stretched back to December. The Eagles have now climbed above their hosts into 13th place, whilst the Amex erupted in frustration as supporters made their feelings known toward Hürzeler.

The home faithful wasted no time venting their spleen, booing their side off the pitch and delivering the inevitable chant questioning the manager's job security. Brighton have managed just one victory in their last 12 league outings—a record matched only by the dire straits of Burnley and Wolves since December began.

With discontent bubbling among the fanbase over Brighton's trajectory under Hürzeler's watch, the pressure cooker is reaching boiling point. The Palace manager could soon find himself no longer the prime candidate for the chop.

Yet for Glasner, this was exactly the tonic needed. The relief was palpable in his post-match assessment.

"It's a lot of relief," he said to Sky Sports. "I told the players we can talk about it and do everything, but you need to win and that's what they did today. Congratulations to them. Maybe it wasn't the best Premier League game ever, but both teams were fighting hard. Feeling absolutely great."

The Palace boss highlighted the defensive solidity as key to the afternoon's success. "It was the clean sheet that helped us. First half, we didn't create enough, it's normal with players in their first competitive game together. Sarr wins the second ball and then it's a great run. Today we took the chance. 10 minutes later, they had a similar situation, but Dean saved the ball."

Glasner praised the quality of his forward's finishing whilst acknowledging the collective effort required. "It's quality and decision making. He scored with his left, but it's the quality of Guessand. He's strong and clever. It's getting used to the intensity of the Premier League. Jorgen Strand Larsen was working so hard for the team. I think we gave them one chance. A huge team effort and that's what we needed."

The Norwegian striker, making his competitive debut for Palace, drew particular commendation from his manager. "It's the effort. He will get better and better. I told him after the game in three or four weeks, he will know where to pass it. He's not used to the way we are playing. His effort and presence. He defended the set plays well. He was a constant threat and that's very positive."

Glasner stressed the importance of maintaining momentum without complacency. "It's important to stay humble. We had some barbecues and tried to keep the mood positive at the training ground but nothing can replace winning. We want to get addicted to winning again."