September 19 2010

Julian Speroni

Crystal Palace manager George Burley toasted Julian Speroni after the keeper's superb display against Burnley.

The Argentine stopper made a hat-trick of fine saves to deny Burnley a win their play deserved as the match ended goal-less.

"I was pleased with a point," said Burley. "They are a good side with experienced players who have come out of the Premier League.

"We were fortunate. The keeper made some great saves and the two centre-halves were outstanding. Julian is a top-class keeper. We had to work hard in the transfer window to keep him.

"It doesn't surprise me when he makes saves like that and he is still maturing. He is a top player for us.

"I won't say how many clubs were in for him. The new consortium decided we didn't want to sell him and that pleases me because we want to keep our best players.

"We hope we can keep hold of him. He has been player of the year for the last three years. He is a big personality and the crowd respect that."

Burley added: "It's a learning experience for our younger players. We are trying to build a team, developing young players.

"We have a long way to go but what we did show was character. We stood firm and still had opportunities."

Burnley boss Brian Laws said: "Of course it's two points dropped but we are delighted with the performance and there are too many plusses to be disappointed.

"We came here and dominated and how we haven't scored is incredible. I am proud of the performance and it shows we are going in the right direction.

"I can take a lot out it. Individually the bar was set and if we continue like that I will be delighted.

"Without question that is our best performance of the season, particularly away from home. It's what we are capable of. I was expecting it.

"Speroni was on form. Even our keeper, who didn't have a lot to do, made a couple of important saves, but their keeper was busy. Their keeper was in inspirational form.

"We kept pressing forward but just couldn't find the net. We got into good positions, but we just couldn't get past the goalkeeper. Our supporters have seen an outstanding performance."