Crystal Palace manager Tony Pulis has refused to place blame on his players for the 1-0 defeat to Southampton on Saturday.

Jay Rodriguez scored the only goal of the game at Selhurst Park, and Pulis was keen to praise the visitors for their performance, rather than focus on the negative aspects of his side's display.

"It was difficult. We got over 20 crosses into the box but they defended very well," Pulis told BBC Sport.

"They are a good side and have more quality but you cant fault my players, they kept at it.

"The important thing is we will have runs where we don't get the points we want but you have to stay focused and stick together. That's what we will do."

The loss on Saturday leaves Palace just two points above the relegation zone.