Crystal Palace manager Pierre Sage has conceded that his side's spirit crumbled once Manchester City extended their lead to 3-1 in a commanding 4-1 Premier League victory at Selhurst Park.

Speaking after the final whistle, Sage acknowledged that the third City goal proved to be the decisive psychological blow — the point at which Palace's belief in mounting a comeback effectively disappeared.

Manchester City were dominant throughout, and the scoreline reflected their control of the contest. Crystal Palace pulled one back to make it 1-4, but the result was never in serious doubt once City moved into a commanding position.

The defeat leaves Sage with difficult questions to answer as he looks to steady Crystal Palace in the Premier League and restore confidence within the squad following a heavy loss.