NEW Palace boss Alan Smith felt his team paid the price for five minutes of madness at Ewood on Saturday.

The likeable West Londoner, who is back at the club for his second spell, was disappointed by the manner in which his team buckled just before half time.

But after all the problems the club have endured during pre-season, he was relatively happy overall with the way his side applied themselves.

"It was five minutes of madness," said Smith.

"I'd just written my half time speech when we went and conceded two sloppy goals in the space of four minutes.

"And both of the goals came out of nothing.

"But after losing 5-1 at Crawley and 6-0 at Millwall, to come here and lose only 2-0 is some kind of miracle. I've got a young team here and we are still learning.

"Eight or nine of my players were 20 or under so to come to a place like this is a big challenge for them.

"So I can't go ranting and raving in the dressing room.

"I've got to build them up and try and instill some confidence.

"But I thought we were going to get over run at one point.

"There was a spell where Blackburn were well on top but fair credit to the lads they kept their shape during the second half.

"And I think we can build on this.

"But Blackburn will be up there.

"They are a strong side with plenty of strength in depth.

"So I expect the likes of them and Fulham to be setting the pace at the top end of the table this season."