As the curtain came down on the career of Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard at Anfield, the home fans applauded the Crystal Palace squad off of the pitch - acknowledging their blistering attack that saw them take the honours 3-1.

It also marked the end of the away days that have seen the Eagles win 27 points – bettered only by Arsenal, Spurs, Manchester City and Chelsea - and the only team in the Premier League to have won more away games than home.

But it was not just the home fans clapping off the boys from SE25 - the Palace faithful were supporting their team in full voice and the entire Palace delegation, including backroom staff, took their time to go over and show their appreciation.

Jason Puncheon - man of the match - threw his shirt into the throng of gathered fans, while Joel Ward handed his to a lucky fan.

He said: “We’re just showing our appreciation to the 12th man.

“They’ve shown tremendous support throughout the whole season - when we’ve had our up moments and when we’ve had our down moments as well.”

That support has not had much to celebrate over the past month as Alan Pardew’s side had not picked up any points since their 4-1 win at Sunderland in early April.

But recent improved performances against champions Chelsea and last week at home in a narrow loss to Manchester United led to those inside Selhurst Park feeling that things were back on track.

PICTURE GALLERY: Liverpool 1 v 3 Crystal Palace

Zaha strike puts downer on Gerrard's Anfield farewell

Eagles youngster enjoys crazy Anfield trip

“I think we were unlucky at times in the season,” said the former Portsmouth defender.

“In the past three games and against the bigger clubs we were a little bit unlucky but we put it right with a win today.

“We’re delighted to win - we came here and knew they would be at it but I think we silenced them and played well.”

Ward and his teammates have just one game left as they face Swansea at home on Sunday and if results go their way, including a home win, the Eagles could finish in 10th place with more points and a higher finishing position than last season.

“We’re all looking forward to Selhurst Park next Sunday,” said Ward.

“It’s going to be a great atmosphere and hopefully we can finish on a high and get the three points.”