Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner has insisted his team's impressive league position is not a priority, despite a dramatic late victory at Fulham propelling the Eagles into the Premier League's top four.
A Late Winner Seals the Points
The crucial moment came deep into the second half at Craven Cottage on Sunday 07 December 2025. With the scores locked at 1-1, defender Marc Guehi rose highest to power in an 87th-minute header from a Yeremy Pino corner, snatching all three points for the visitors.
Palace had taken the lead earlier through Eddie Nketiah, who finished coolly after being set up by Adam Wharton. Fulham responded with a superb equaliser from Harry Wilson, who curled a magnificent effort into the top corner from the edge of the area.
VAR Drama and Managerial Reaction
The match was not without controversy. Early in the second half, Fulham thought they had taken the lead when Emile Smith Rowe found the net, only for the goal to be disallowed by VAR for a marginal offside in the build-up. Fulham boss Marco Silva expressed his frustration, suggesting the decision came down to a "toenail" and that such moments require greater resilience from his side.
In contrast, Glasner chose to focus on his squad's character rather than the league table. "I'll have to ask if we get a bonus if we are fourth in December – I don't think so," he joked. He reserved special praise for Nathaniel Clyne, naming the rarely-used defender his man of the match for his professional attitude and impact off the bench.
Looking Ahead to a Packed Schedule
The win lifts Palace to a remarkable fourth place, raising tentative hopes of a potential Champions League qualification push. However, Glasner immediately tempered expectations, highlighting the challenges of a congested fixture list. The Eagles now turn their attention to a midweek Conference League trip to face Shelbourne.
Glasner emphasised that the team's mentality and readiness, exemplified by players like Clyne, were far more significant than their lofty league standing in December. "That's what I'm thinking about and for me fourth place in the league is not that important," he concluded, keeping his squad firmly grounded despite their soaring position.
