Zaha in dreamland as Eagles down champions

Wilfried Zaha described Crystal Palace’s victory over Chelsea as a “dream”, after his side registered their first goals and points of the 2017-18 Premier League season, writes Matt Woosnam.

It was the winger’s first game back after two months out with a knee injury sustained in the 3-0 opening day loss to Huddersfield.

Zaha played an instrumental part in the victory at Selhurst Park – scoring the decisive goal.

“Getting the first goal was a massive confidence boost for the whole team and we all just worked so hard, pulled together well and produced a great performance,” he said.

Palace boss Roy Hodgson pioneered a new formation, a fluid 4-2-2-2 system proving fruitful with Zaha up front alongside Andros Townsend.

The Ivory Coast international produced a storming performance.

Zaha said: “In the role we were both playing we showed some great energy going forward, we were really fresh and kept trying to create the chances.

“Mama did well for our goal. Even though he is a defender he is always thinking about going forward. When he had the ball I just knew I had to make a run and was delighted to be able to finish the chance.

“I need to keep working at my finishing because I don’t score enough goals. I was buzzing to get the goal.

“I worked hard to come back – it is just a dream to beat Chelsea at home.

“We have got great players and now the confidence will start building. I am sure we can climb up the table.”