Nigel Adkins was trying to put a positive spin on the derby day draw with Portsmouth by insisting it was one point gained rather than two dropped.

David Norris struck a late equaliser to deny Saints a victory that would have seen them re-establish a six point cushion between themselves and the play-off places.

But Adkins only had eyes for the positives.

“It was one point gained,” he said.

“It put us top of the league and that’s what it’s about.

“I said before the game it’s a six game league, one game is now out the way and there’s five to go.

“We are top of the league and we’re there on merit because after 41 games we deserve to be there and what we’ve got to do is put this game to bed.

“It’s dedicated to the supporters and we know how important and how special these games are.

“It’s a quick turnaround for the players and staff for Crystal Palace and that’s what we’ve got to do.”

Adkins also reminded both sets of fans of where their clubs are in the run-ins.

“We haven’t lost the game so it’s two derby games and two draws,” he added.

“Both sets of supporters will look at the remaining five games and we’re looking at the top and they’re looking at the bottom.”