The biggest adversary on our New Year's Day fixture against Norwich City was probably mother nature rather than Delia Smith's lot.

And hangovers. Terrible, terrible hangovers.

Some passes and decisions made by both sides were so bad as to be ridiculous - a seemingly simple short pass Damien Delaney made, which skewed bizarrely wide for an opposition throw, being a particular low-light.

But the ferocious wind and punishing rain undoubtedly contributed.

The huge amount of spills, collisions and scrambles around John Ruddy summed up the conditions.

It was either a miracle either side managed to score, or a miracle both teams did not concede far more.

Once again, following his outstanding game against Manchester City, Jason Puncheon's desire and driven performance was a sight to behold.

It included the confident, professional penalty, as well as tireless effort throughout the game and after the equaliser his attempt to inspire the same passion from the rest of his team was obvious. All a complete reversal from his attitude earlier in the season.

The introduction of Dwight Gayle once again looked exciting and energetic, and his goal three days later in the FA Cup proves how clinical and deadly he can be - given the chance.

Judging by Cameron Jerome's recent showings, and atrocious, unforgivable misses to win the game against the Canaries, Gayle needs to take precedence immediately.

It was a nice surprise to see the Eagles trump the Baggies on Saturday, particularly with top performers like Mile Jedinak and Joel Ward rested, and fielding youngsters such as Hiram Boateng and Jonny Williams.

Julian Speroni’s MOTM display in Birmingham was a joy to behold, and quite possibly a reaction to the speculation that Palace look set to sign Wayne Hennessey from Wolves in his position during the transfer window.

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Step aside Cameron, Dwight is on the charge

If the very concept of competition for a starting place brings such a performance from Jules, having a competitor for the number one spot full-time will surely be a good thing.

The added interest of the FA Cup will help keep spirits high for the time being and aid momentum, though sensibly it does not feel as though Tony Pulis would ever let a cup run distract from our survival fight, as made clear by his varied squad selection.

As well as the lovely little revenge victory over West Brom, also over the weekend news broke that Ian Holloway is odds on to become the new Millwall boss.

While Palace's own elongated search for Olly's successor is evidence that these "bookies' favourites" should be taken with a pinch of salt, the idea of our ex-boss taking the reins in Bermondsey will certainly ruffle a few feathers.

Those fans that want to hate him, those that want a pantomime villain, will see the move as a betrayal and final nail in Holloway’s reputation’s coffin.

However, it should not change anything – even Sir Steve Coppell managed Brighton.

Holloway got Palace promoted and stood down in a dignified and honourable way, for which he should remain held in high regard.

At least until the inevitable misjudged comments before a South London derby of course.