October 19 2011

Dougie Freedman

Crystal Palace manager Dougie Freedman admits even he is shocked at the team's excellent start to the season.

Palace propelled up to fifth in the Championship after Glenn Murray's 81st minute penalty settled the match at home to Bristol City on Tuesday night.

"I am surprised as well because I didn't think we would take shape as quickly as we have done," said Freedman.

"We find ourselves bubbling along nicely - but the good thing is the team is improving.

"It is hard work these victories, it is no fluke. But it will be a roller-coaster season, we will win a few and lose a few."

Bristol City caretaker manager Steve Wigley added: "The game was decided by a poor refereeing decision. I have just watched it and I can't believe what I saw, to be honest.

"The centre-half pulled his foot away, the boy was going away from goal and the ball was going away from his legs - at any level you have to get those right.

"He said he would give me a ring if he got it wrong but I don't think I want to speak to him for a long time.

"I thought we were worth something in the game and were good for spells. I always felt it would come down to one goal and you always hope it won't come down to a refereeing decision."