Crystal Palace boss Roy Hodgson highlighted goalkeeper Vicente Guaita's performance after victory over Southampton.
Wilfried Zaha struck the only goal of the game, though Guatia was rated by many as best afield.
Hodgson said: "It was always going to be a tough opening fixture for us, but I am really pleased with how we approached it.
"I have to take my hat off to our goalkeeper for making a fantastic save, but I am very happy to get off to a good start against a team like Southampton with such good quality."
Zaha's winner was 50th league goal in his career.
