James Tomkins believes Crystal Palace’s 3-2 victory over rivals Brighton shows that lessons have been learned from the recent errors that have cost them.
Three vital points took them significantly closer to preserving their Premier League status, but they may no longer have been at risk had they not conceded late goals in last week’s 2-2 draw at Bournemouth or recent defeats by Liverpool, Manchester United and Tottenham.
Palace again came under pressure throughout the second half but Tomkins – who scored their second goal – says the Eagles were confident of holding firm.
He told the club’s website: “It’s happened to us a few times when we have panicked towards the end but we managed to keep a clean sheet in the second half.
“We knew if we did that we would win the game but it was nerve wracking at times, and I can imagine the fans being a bit nervous watching us, but it’s three points which move us up the table and closer to safety.
“Everyone was confident we could do it and you get that where they are going to chuck everything at you, but we know we had enough ability on the pitch to put the game to bed and thankfully we did.
“Being a derby is a bonus but it’s massive for us and a step closer to safety and that is the most important thing as this club deserves to be in the Premier League next season.”