Crystal Palace are set to face Brighton and Hove Albion in what promises to be a heated affair at Selhurst Park tonight, and midfielder Will Hughes has spoken about the importance of the rivalry.
The two sides are bitter rivals, and tonight’s game holds extra importance for Palace as they attempt to end a poor run of form which has seen them win just once in their last eight matches.
Palace fought back superbly to draw 2-2 with Manchester City on Saturday, but tonight’s game will provide a different challenge as they take on Roberto De Zerbi’s side, who were beaten by Arsenal on Sunday.
Will Hughes on the importance of Crystal Palace vs Brighton
Speaking via Crystal Palace club media, Hughes explained why there is an “extra edge” when it comes to games against Brighton.
“That massive rivalry is what makes football for the fans. It is everything,” he stated.
“I’ve been at other clubs where it means so much, and it is no different here. Obviously, we have to see it as playing for three points, but it does have that extra edge to it and we need to play with that.
Hughes went on to praise his teammates for the spirit shown in the last two games.
“Everyone goes through these moments in the season. We had a strong start to the season and picked up points and then we’ve gone through a difficult spell of late,” he added.
“I think the performance against Liverpool was a bit of a turning point. I think we did well and were unfortunate in the end. Then, against City, to be 2-0 down and draw 2-2 away to them is a big confidence boost mentally. Hopefully we can carry that on for the next few games.”
Could tonight be a turning point for Crystal Palace?
Palace are set to welcome Jefferson Lerma back from injury, and the last two performances against tough opposition have given signs of encouragement that a victory could be around the corner.
Winning at home against Brighton would be huge for the fanbase, and could galvanise the squad into finding form again.
However, losing could spell disaster for Roy Hodgson, and with the recently-sacked Steve Cooper reportedly set to be contacted by Palace, a defeat at home to bitter rivals would set Palace up badly for upcoming games against Chelsea and Brentford.
