Crystal Palace’s first victory in the UEFA Europa League last night placed some of the concerns fans had about Pierre Sage at bay, with a historic result for the Eagles.

Their 4-0 victory over Lech Poznań is their best ever result in a European competition, and an incredible way to start their second campaign in Europe. The 4-0 victory was also the biggest by a side in their first game in the UEFA Europa League since RZ Pellets WAC beat Borussia Mönchengladbach 4-0 in September 2019.

Poznań were not the strongest opponent Palace have faced during their time in Europe, with a notable shift from the low blocks which Oliver Glasner's side struggled against in the Conference League. 

Palace are clearly settling into Europe than last season, despite bringing home the silverware to South London. This immediate impact shows a positive sign for Sage's system, showing that it can bring the attacking results under some circumstances. 

While some fans may have been sceptical with the line-up unchanged from the 3-2 defeat to Ipswich on Saturday, it all worked out with some players stepping up in their performance. 

Yeremy Pino had one of his best matches in a Palace shirt for a while, stepping up with his beautiful finish on the first goal. With the reduced physicality of Palace's opponents it seemed the perfect game for Pino's runs through the middle, with him really able to keep the ball and create opportunities. 

Another goalscorer for the Eagles was Chris Richards, with an incredible header from the back post. The boost from the goal comes at a good time for Richards as he has appeared to have struggled in some of Palace's first Premier League games with the changes to the defence and the absence of Maxence Lacroix to partner with at the back.

Credit also has to go to the defence, with the second clean sheet kept under Sage. Despite all the changes and lack of continuity with the starting back-line, throughout the game Palace appeared more unified which is promising going forward especially with the addition of youngster Honest Ahanor. 

Finally, Dwight McNeil did receive some praise for his performance off the bench yesterday, with his first assist as a Palace player. 

Last night saw Ismaïla Sarr return to the pitch following his transfer window saga and short-term injury. His welcome was met with cheers and fans singing his chant, while others took to booing the Palace player. 

Coming on in the 73rd minute, he was not really able to make an impact in the game, however it's likely he may get more game time away at Leeds and it remains promising that Palace’s top goalscorer last season could integrate himself back into the team.

Eddie Nketiah's return following a short term injury was more beneficial, as he scored off the bench to make it 4-0 and really solidify what an incredible night Palace had.

Jaydee Canvot was also included back in the squad, but did not take any minutes of the bench. Fans may be reserved as to whether Sage’s philosophy of pushing for more in the players has paid off in this case, they could be seeing Canvot return for Leeds with a chance to show his performance has levelled up.

Included in the squad for the first time was Palace academy players Lucca Benetton and Seb Williams, showing a great promise for the future of the club and the opportunities given to young players. 

While last night's victory was great for Palace and brought Sage's best result in charge, Palace fans will be wanting more especially as they head to Leeds on Sunday. Palace are in need of some stronger results in the league and for the defence to finally gel.

Last night showed some unity in the defence, but with the change of Disassi not being eligible for Leeds, Palace fans may find themselves back in the same position of feeling like there isn't a stable central centre-back and someone to command from the back line.