Crystal Palace outplayed 10-man Sunderland to pick up their first Barclays Premier League points of the season with a well-deserved 3-1 victory at Selhurst Park.
Danny Gabbidon's maiden top-flight goal gave the hosts the early lead their play deserved, with half-time substitute Steven Fletcher drawing Sunderland level just after the hour.
But Palace, who lost their opening two league matches against Tottenham and Stoke, remained resolute and after Sunderland skipper John O'Shea was dismissed for tripping Jason Puncheon inside the area, Dwight Gayle stepped up to score his first goal for the Eagles.
The win was wrapped up in stoppage time, with substitute Stuart O'Keefe securing three points for Ian Holloway's side with a smart finish.
Source: PA
