Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner was pleased that his side completed the job of progressing past League One side Stockport to reach the fourth round of the FA Cup.
The Eagles took the lead in the fourth minute at Selhurst Park as Eberechi Eze turned on the edge of the box and fired beyond ex-Crawley stopper Corey Addai.
League One Stockport had chances to find an equaliser – ex-Millwall striker Isaac Olaofe robbed Chris Richards in the 64th minute inside the area but was unable to find a way past Matt Turner.
Jefferson Lerma should have wrapped up the game in the 87th minute when he was played through by Daichi Kamada. But after the Colombian international checked back onto his left foot after beating Addai, he blazed his effort over the bar.
The South Londoners will travel to League Two side Doncaster Rovers in the next round.
Crystal Palace v Stockport County – Emirates FA Cup – 3rd Round, Selhurst Park, 12 January 2025Picture : Keith Gillard
“It was job done today,” said Glasner.
“It was a good start into the game with the early goal – we then controlled the game.
“We had some opportunities but missed the second goal.
“We gave them one big chance in the second half through our mistake in the build-up.
“We gave them one big chance.
Crystal Palace v Stockport County – Emirates FA Cup – 3rd Round, Selhurst Park, 12 January 2025Picture : Keith Gillard
“We defended a number of thor long balls well but missed the opportunities to decide the game.
“It’s the story of our season. We have opportunities but we don’t score from them.
“I’m really pleased with the attitude we entered with the game. We were very serious and it was important to win the game.
“I have played many cup games as a player and manager, it’s not easy when people expect you to win.”
PICTURES: KEITH GILLARD