SAKA, ANTONY AND 10 PREMIER LEAGUE STARS HEADING TO THEIR FIRST WORLD CUP
If we could’ve witnessed what Jean-Philippe Mateta was dreaming of on Sunday night, we’d confidently say it wouldn’t be far off what happened in the 28th minute against Brighton.
To score your first goal for Crystal Palace against Brighton is the stuff of dreams, but to do it in the way Mateta did was borderline ridiculous.
Having barely touched the ball for 28 minutes, the 11-cap France Under-21 international held off his man, spun his huge frame around and stuck a first-time, back-heeled finish through Robert Sanchez’s legs.
It wasn’t just any goal – it was sheer, utter brilliance.
What is most exciting, however, is what could now follow.
Mateta has set himself up for icon status at Selhurst Park.
If you were to talk about endearing yourself to the fanbase, there is simply no better way to do so than to do what the 23-year-old did last night.
We’re certain that no supporter will forget Mateta’s first goal for the Eagles, and knowing the Selhurst Park faithful, they will now cut him some slack if things ever get tough for him.
At a time where he cannot endear himself to fans via the throw of his shirt at full time, staying back to applaud the support, or simply throwing himself into the crowd, he did the next best thing.
Now, there will always be a fondness towards our new No.14, which should hopefully provide him with the confidence and foundation to kick on and become a cult hero.
Just wait until we’re allowed back into Selhurst Park – the Holmesdale Fanatics will almost surely come up with a way to thank him for what he did at the Amex Stadium on Monday 22nd February.
A club icon may well have been born on the south coast last night…
