Crystal Palace boss Alan Pardew absolved keeper Alex McCarthy for his part in the build up to a last minute goal that won Manchester City all three points on Saturday.
The keeper failed to hold on to Samir Nasri's drive, allowing substitute Kelechi Iheanacho to snap up the rebound from close range.
It meant Palace took nothing from a game that appeared destined for a 0-0 draw.
Palace dropped to fifth in the Premier League table, while Manchester City maintained their 100 per cent record start to the season.
Pardew said: "We could have possible done better with their goal, but it's a good save from a good hit - Alex is kicking himself.
"There was not much he could have done really, the striker was fresh having just come on snapped it up quick as you like and they got the goal."
He added: "But overall, I cannot help but be impressed with my team and proud of them, because they were brilliant and so were the fans.
"Even though we beat them last year, I think this was a better performance."
Palace are back in action on Sunday at Tottenham Hotspur, followed by the Capital One Cup clash against Charlton Athletic at Selhurst Park on September 23.
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