‘We knew Tottenham would be flying’ – Roy Hodgson admits Crystal Palace found it tough on Spurs’ big night

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Roy Hodgson says the pitch at Tottenham's new stadium caused a few of his Crystal Palace players a problem as they faced Spurs in the first Premier League game at their new stadium.

Second half goals from Heung-min Son and Christian Eriksen ensured Spurs took all three points as they stepped into a new era, though Palace's resolute defending caused a couple of nervy moments before the break.

There was heavy hail before kick-off and the surface, which can retract in three parts to reveal an artificial pitch for NFL matches, had seen just two 90-minute games before Wednesday night.

"I don’t know if the stadium was a factor. It was always going to be a tough game. The pitch was outstanding but maybe a bit slippery and I think one or two of our players, once-or-twice, found that a bit harder to deal with than maybe they expected.

On the performance, the former England manager added: "The game was pretty much what we prepared for. We knew Tottenham would be flying tonight and showing their very best side we defended resolutely throughout the first half and the start of the second."

In Pictures | Tottenham Hotspur Stadium opening ceremony

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With Cardiff having lost at Manchester City, Palace remain eight clear of the drop, though Hodgson is keen for his side to seal their fate alone rather than rely on the results of others.

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