Veltman: Roberto lifted us after Palace frustration

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Defender proud of Albion's team spirit despite frustrating afternoon at Selhurst Park.

Bruce Talbot

2023-02-13T06:00:00Z

Joel Veltman challenges Will Hughes in the draw at Crystal Palace on Saturday.

Joel Veltman has revealed how Roberto De Zerbi quickly lifted the mood of the players after Saturday’s draw at Crystal Palace.

Albion extended their unbeaten run in the Premier League to six game at Selhurst Park but after dominating the game the 1-1 draw felt more like a defeat.

But head coach De Zerbi said he was proud of our performance, and wasted no time in telling Veltman and his teammates the same.

“The gaffer saw that we had our heads down afterwards and said it felt like a funeral, but he lifted us straight away and said we should be proud of how well we played," said Veltman.

“There wasn’t a lot more we could have done. To me, only one team looked like winning and that was Brighton. But it is the Premier League, you don’t sometimes get what you deserve.

“We’ve become difficult to beat and I like it that we’re there for each other in the tough moments. I was happy after the Palace game even though we didn’t win. I can see the effort we put in to help each other when we’re in trouble, it’s an admirable quality.”

Solly March’s fifth goal of the season capped a fine performance by the winger, one which was appreciated by Veltman.

“We knew Solly has the qualities and he has shown it in a lot of games but now the goals are coming as well and that makes him such an important player for us. With [Kaoru] Mitoma as well, on the wings we have two amazing players.”