Crystal Palace took advantage of some sloppy play from Southampton as they halted a streak of six consecutive league losses by winning 3-0.
Palace took the lead in fortunate circumstances when Christian Benteke took advantage when the usually reliable Fraser Forster sliced his clearance and the Belgian was able to tap home.
Just three minutes later, James Tomkins prodded home from close range to double the advantage.
Benteke put the cherry on the cake late on when he tapped home Jason Puncheon’s pull-back to make it 3-0 and ease some of the pressure that was building on Alan Pardew.
Here are our Palace player ratings from the game:
Wayne Hennessey - 6
Hennessey had very little to do on the day. Saints never really threatened and the only action of the game the Welshman had to deal with was Shane Long’s low header, which was turned behind.
James Tomkins - 7
Tomkins bagged a rather simple goal but he was solid throughout the game. He kept Sofiane Boufal at bay relatively well.
Scott Dann - 7
Charlie Austin didn’t get a sniff and Dann dominated the back line.
Damien Delaney - 7
Much like Dann, Delaney was imperious at the back.
Joel Ward - 7
Ward contributed to the attack very well but had little to do defensively.
James McArthur - 8
Ran the show. Superb midfield display.
Joe Ledley - 7
Quietly went about his business and helped McArthur to control the middle.
Jason Puncheon - 6
Relatively quiet game for Puncheon but he still linked up play between the midfield and attack well. Assisted the third goal.
Andros Townsend - 5
Townsend was quiet as well. Didn’t do a lot of much note and was dealt with comfortably by Cedric Soares.
Wilfried Zaha - 7
Zaha had the beating of Ryan Bertrand on many occasions but his end product was lacking.
Christian Benteke - 8
Scored the two easiest goals he will all season but the encouraging thing about the game for Benteke was that he found the positions well. He was in the right place at the right time and he showed predatory instincts to lead Palace to victory. Bullied Jose Fonte in the air.