November 9 2003

Kit Symons

Caretaker player-boss Kit Symons felt Palace were worthy of a point at home to Preston in a 1-1 draw.

Andy Johnson rescued a draw for the Eagles with six minutes remaining after David Healy had put the Lilywhites ahead on 51 minutes.

Symons said: "I was very pleased with our performance today against Preston. I felt we definitely deserved a point, if not all three. I felt we gave it a real go out there and I can't have any complaints with anyone.

"The first half was difficult for both sides to actually take control but I thought we did ok and at the break came in having not conceded. This was a real plus point having gone into the game on the back of a 5-0 defeat away from home.

"The second half saw us really get at them and it was not until Preston took the lead that we really put them under pressure.

"It was a poor goal to give away, a real lack of concentration on our part. We knew David Healy would be a real threat and is always dangerous.

"We have been working on the defensive side of our game and once again today we are left looking back knowing that we need to sense danger a lot quicker."

Symons added: "We came back well and could have had a penalty. Those that have seen a replay have said that it was a spot kick as the keeper seemed to catch him but you see those decisions given some times and other occasions not.

"When his opportunity came along Andy Johnson took it very well and really gave them problems all afternoon.

"To come from behind from a goal down in our current situation was brilliant. The players were excellent and I’m very proud of them. Everyone rolled their sleeves up and did what had to be done, our endeavour could not be questioned.

"I don’t like to single certain players out as it was a team performance but I must say that Ben Watson and Shaun Derry did very well in midfield. Shaun was back in his natural role and did an excellent job."