Eddie Howe on the season's climax

The Cherries kept ten clean sheets in 2018/19, their most in a Premier League season, but also conceded the most goals in a top flight season following the 5-3 defeat at Selhurst Park.

The boss also commented on his side's 14th placed finish in the top flight in his post-match press conference with the written media.

He had this to say on...

THE PERFORMANCE

We are really disappointed with the first half, we didn't respond well to their first goal and our reaction to that was very disappointing.

It looked like it was going to be a difficult afternoon but credit to the players in the second half, they showed quality at times and created numerous opportunities.

Wilfried Zaha was strong today and credit to him, but we have to look at ourselves and be critical of our defending.

ON THE TEAM'S DEFENSIVE PERFORMANCE

It's something that we have to focus on for next season because it has hampered our ability to win matches.

We have to improve on that and we will look at ourselves in every aspect, we will be working hard over the summer to improve that.

ON MARK TRAVERS' DISPLAYS

The two games have been brilliant for him, the way he has attacked the games mentally has been fantastic.

He's not looked in any way nervous and even today playing out from the back was hugely positive so the two games have been great for him.

ON THE 14th PLACE FINISH

We have to take a step back and look at the bigger picture I think, the Premier League is so competitive and there are so many good teams.

Of course progression is something we work for all the time and we always want to push new boundaries.

But another season to come is important for the future, internally I am disappointed but we will keep pushing the team and work to come back better.

As today showed we were a bit light on senior professionals and we've had almost another team of injured players, we've got through it though and done enough to stay in the league.

But we'll be pleased to have the break to get bodies back.