Crystal Palace really needed that!

The Eagles’ form was threatening to drag them kicking and screaming towards the relegation zone before Saturday’s hosting of Southampton, with six defeats on the spin a worrying trend to say the least.

The run had ramped up the pressure on manager Alan Pardew, who knew that he would be in for a feisty reception from the travelling Saints given his past allegiance with the club, but he might have expected more of a fight from the players, who rolled over as the home side strolled to a 3-0 win via goals from Christian Benteke (x2) and James Tomkins.

Perhaps the Hampshire side were feeling the effect of their midweek EFL Cup win over Arsenal, but Palace were much more effective than they have been in recent times, which will boost morale in the south end of the capital.

It was quite the game, and here are FIVE pictures that summed up what could prove to be a vital afternoon in Palace’s 2016/17 season.

Pardew under pressure…

Entering the game, Pardew’s Palace were on a six-game losing streak in the league. The Eagles knew they needed a win to ease fears of being dragged towards the relegation scrap, and nobody was feeling the pressure to the extent of ‘Pards’.

Indeed, the tactician knew that Southampton, his former team, would be eager to get one over on him, and before kick-off the anxiety he was under could be seen by all.

Big Ben chimes

Boy did Pardew need that! Fraser Forster’s woeful miskick from a Jose Fonte back-pass gifted Christian Benteke the sort of chance he couldn’t miss with 33-minutes on the clock and was a massive relief for all in the south of London.

The big Belgian celebrated in style, too.

Tomkins strikes

A summer signing from London rivals West Ham, Tomkins’ defensive effect may not have been what his side were hoping for so far, but he has been doing his thing at the other end of the pitch. His goal vs. Southampton was his third of the season and eased nerves in the stands.

Benteke at the double

Signed for his goalscoring prowess, Benteke showed why he’s one of the Prem’s most feared strikers against Southampton. His second was a better worked than his first, as he slotted in a Jason Puncheon cut-back.

If Benteke can keep firing, Palace may well be able to haul themselves clear of the relegation scrap.

Relief

Pardew needed that, and the way he celebrated after the final whistle showed his relief. After Benteke’s second goal he gave the thumbs up to chairman Steve Parish, and following the final whistle he extended an arm to the crowd to acknowledge their support in what has been a tricky run.