Jean-Philippe Mateta is “very happy” to have notched up ten Premier League goals this season for Crystal Palace in a 2-1 comeback victory at home to Newcastle United.
Mateta equalised from a 80th header after William Osula had fired Newcastle into a half-time lead, before he sealed the comeback to go 13th in the Premier League with a 94th-minute penalty after Sven Botman fouled Jefferson Lerma.
His two goals meant that he has notched up ten top-flight goals this season, and meant that he had hit double-digit top-flight goals for the third consecutive season.
“Today I’m very happy,” explained Mateta on his eagerness to help them come from behind to win in a post-match interview with Palace TV. “I could help the lads and we ended up with the win. It’s the best!”
He proceeded to credit the fans for their support as he continued: “The fans play a big part when we play at home. Especially when I score, and I kick the corner flag, it’s very loud and yes, I like them!
“They always bring energy. In those type of games, we need them, and I hope they will come to Florence.
“It was a good game to go with confidence to Florence, and now we’re focused on it.”
Palace now turn their attention to the second leg of their UEFA Conference League Quarter-Final away to Fiorentina on Thursday 16 April at 9pm CEST (8pm BST), with Mateta aware of a “very exciting,” feeling around the club with the season’s run-in now underway under manager – Oliver Glasner.
“We have a big squad, and like you see today, the gaffer has changed a lot.
“We beat a great team and we have Europe as well. It gives us a lot of energy. I hope we will win all the games!”
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