Gaetan Bong insists Brighton-Crystal Palace derby is 'massive' for survival bid
Tuesday 10 April 2018 13:47, UK
Gaetan Bong insists Brighton must win their "massive" derby against Crystal Palace because they are by no means safe from relegation yet.
The Seagulls are 13th in the Premier League with six games left and seven points above safety, with their rival Eagles four points behind in 17th.
Brighton had hoped to distance themselves from danger with victory at home to Huddersfield last weekend but instead drew 1-1 and had Davvy Propper sent off, meaning he will be suspended for three crucial games pending an appeal.
Bong told the club's website: "(Palace) is a big game for everybody. After last weekend we have to react because we need points. The job is not done yet and the table is tight.
"The fact that it's a derby as well makes it a massive game for all of us. Every derby has a different story, I've played in some big games but this is a unique one.
"These games can sometimes have a different mentality because it isn't always necessarily about who's playing the better football or who has the better team. It comes down to that one game and we just want to make the fans proud.
"Pressure and intensity comes with being in this league. This Saturday's derby game is a hard one and we'll need the supporters. We must be ready to fight but we also have to enjoy it as well."
Bong has also urged the supporters to remember they are only in their first season in the Premier League and get behind the team for the remaining fixtures, to ensure they keep their top-flight status.
"My message is easy - remember where we've come from and where we want to go," he said. "Even when it gets difficult, we need the fans because, without them, football is nothing.
"We want them to enjoy the games and enjoy watching us. They can make a really big difference and, when they're loud, it gives you an extra bit of energy. Even when you're tired you feel like you can give a little bit more and we'll want that on Saturday."
