United 2 Norwich 0 - report/ratings

[Deadbat]

Back from my holidays in the States. 2 weeks in NYC and Boston. Enjoyed it. Saw a fair few sporting events, 3 x NBA games in Boston, Brooklyn and New York and an NFL game – NY Giants. Saw a few of the United games in bars (the Burnley game at Smithfield Hall in NYC and the other, Sunderland, at Phoenix Landing in Cambridge near Harvard) but both were defeats but did not see all of the WBA game as was 7am! Weather saw it quite cold to start with and then we had a fair bit if snow on Xmas Eve but then warmed up actually and ok over Xmas/into the New Year. Did a lot of the usual sights but also went up the Edge for the first time. Went up the crown at Statue of Liberty for the first time. Had some great nights out in the East/West Village and Williamsburg and my first trip to Boston was good too! Today was my first game since Plymouth and enjoyed being back. I have still not seen us lose in person – so maybe my holiday led to the dip in form. I am back now, so all should be ok moving forward and hear comes my rambling and boring match reports again……



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The Blades moved to the back of the Championship summit as they disposed of Norwich City with a comfortable 2-0 victory at the Lane. A Harrison Burrows double, with a long range shot and a penalty, saw off he Canaries who never seriously threatened Michael Cooper’s goal. United could have had more goals with Callum O’Hare somehow not finding the net, in an otherwise excellent game from the midfielder but United were excellent from start to finish winning the individual battles, playing good football when they could and being the only side that looked like scoring throughout.



Brewster and McCallum came into the starting line up for One and Brooks – the latter being ruled out at lunchtime due to illness. The Blades still had a number of players unavailable and also had not been able to add to their squad in time for today’s game. Campbell and Seriki were both back on the bench. Norwich were also stricken with a dreadful injury list and with star man Sainz, suspended, they too were limited in their options. Josh Sargent was able to be called upon as a substitute though.



The game started slowly, with both teams feeling each other out. Norwich won a few early corners but did not really threaten the United goal and slowly the home team started to move up the field and look the more dangerous of the two sides. O’Hare was busy as always and Hamer looked to get on the ball at every opportunity too. Brewster had an effort deflected wide before Hamer tried a shot that Gunn had to scamper across to make the save. The Blades best chance came from a corner that evaded everyone and fell to former Canary McCallum but he scuffed his shot wide.



On 22 minutes, United made their pressure count although it came from Norwich trying to play the ball out. Gunn’s pass was intercepted and it eventually fell for Burrows who hit the long range shot that the keeper managed to push against the post and as it rebounded across the goal, kissed the other post before crossing the line. The goal scorer was already well into his celebration, sliding in front of the John Street stand as referee Smith signalled it had clearly crossed the line.



Buoyed by this United were now opening Norwich up more with Hamer continuing to probe but City were not helping themselves by constantly coughing up possession, as they tried to continually play out from the back. After the away side lost the ball in midfield, Gunn was still well off his line and Hamer tried a ridiculous chip from the half way line and the keeper had to scramble back to tip over as the crowd held their breath awaiting a spectacular goal.



United should have doubled their lead when nice football saw Hamer play in his running mate, O’Hare darted through but Gunn made the save as he advanced to narrow the angle. The half time whistle went not long after this opportunity.



The second half saw United continue to control midfield with Peck showing his industry and poise on the ball. Hamer and O’Hare continued to cause problems and Norwich stuck to their approach but the meant plenty of ball but also plenty of stupid give aways. Gunn was nearly robbed and then Duffy lost the ball as United sensed blood. The second goal came as Norwich were preparing Sargent to be introduced. The ball was not properly cleared from a corner and even though there was no real danger and McCallum was going away from goal, Chrisene made a ridiculous lunge and it seemed a clear-cut decision as the Kop bayed for the award. The referee obliged as he pointed to the spot. After United’s chequered record from 12 yards, Brewster had the ball for some time but his 0% record was surely not going to lead to him being entrusted with the opportunity? Sure enough the ball was passed onto BURROWS. The left back made no mistake, drilling it into the corner despite Gunn going the right way and he doubled his tally and United’s for the afternoon.



Norwich finally made their changes with Sargent and Mahovo on for Crnac and Chrisene but O’Hare was soon in and had his shot was deflected and somehow brilliant saved from Gunn as United looked to finish the game. Schwartau and Myles then came on for Hernandez and Fisher for the visitors as Seriki replaced Gilchrist. The game moved into the final 15 minutes but it was the Blades still looking more likely. O’Hare had another effort blocked before Seriki had a superb swashbuckling run that led to another O’ Hare opportunity.



Campbell came on to warm applause as Davies seemed to pick up a knock as the game became a bit stop start but Norwich had not really looked close to a goal and seemed to be resigned to their fate. Some nice football saw United nearly in again with Hamer again to the fore before a lovely ball from Peck saw Campbell in but he was hauled down by Doyle, who was cautioned. Burrows free kick, as he looked for a hat trick was blocked before the away side had a few speculative long-range efforts they were a long way off target. There was 7 minutes of stoppage time but it was the home side who continued to attack with gaps appearing but could not quite fashion another opportunity but it mattered not one bit as the Blades eased to the victory.

 

[Deadbat]

United – A much more comfortable afternoon than I thought it might be and a very good performance. When I saw we had more or less the same team as Watford (weaker with Brooks out) I thought it may be a real slog but actually it was a really good performance where controlled the game with and without the ball. It was even to start and they had a few attacks/corners in the first 10 minutes, but after this we gradually got on top and started to pen them back. They continued to try and play it out and this tactic would prove to be their undoing. Our press was not always right on them and we had to choose when to go and when to wait (sort of soft to medium rather than hard press!) but in the end they made mistakes often without even that pressure. We started to have more of the ball where it mattered and a few half chances -McCallum had a very good one from the corner and a few other where it just did not drop or Brewster had some driven shots deflected. Hamer and O’Hare started to become more influential, you felt a goal coming. It was a decent shot and after this O’Hare should have scored a second on half time.



I thought Norwich may come out and have more of a go but it just carried on with more of the same with us having less of the ball but looking far more dangerous. We had more chances and then the second came from a penalty. After this, they made changes but there was only really one side who looked like scoring again and we had a number of good chances or moments we could not quite be clinical enough. O’Hare had at least 3 really good chances and a few deflected wide or the keeper made saves. They never really hurt us at all and we won all the loose stuff and used it intelligently. Thought we played pockets of nice stuff and used it really well. It was just a solid performance and 2-0 probably flattered them in the end. We got to see a few back (Davies and McCallum went off injured – hopefully not too bad) so it was 2 back and 2 out but Campbell and Seriki gave us some options we have not had off the bench! Not sure anyone played badly. Brewster and McCallum were just average but the rest played well or very well. Hamer, O’Hare, Peck, Anel and Burrows were my stand outs but to say I have named maybe the 5 best players on the pitch summed up our domination.



We go back top (before Leeds, as I expect them to do, will probably beat Wednesday) but at least with Burnley and Sunderland dropping points, we make up some points we had lost over the Xmas period. We have a long trip to Swansea and they play in a similar fashion to Norwich – tippy, tappy, play out from the back so hopefully we can play on this again. They lost to Leeds and Sunderland but gave them problems at home, in high scoring games. Hopefully, their very open style can see some of our creative players cause them problems. A draw would not be the worst result with Hull and Derby on the agenda – both struggling.



We now see if we can get Souza and Rak Sakyi back but also await the additions which seem very imminent from Wilder’s post-match interview. Of course, Brereton Diaz was there today so you would think that is close and Cannon seemingly is close too. I think we still need a centre back as got no cover there and need another dominant player in here (both fine today though) and another midfielder (Choudhury would be a fantastic addition for the run in) with Davies and Peck playing so much and not having a break.



Ratings:



Cooper 6/10 – Not a lot to do at all in general play but fine for the most part with some decent kick outs and kept it moving. Took a few routine crosses/balls and did well to cut out a cross but cannot remember a proper save all game? The only issue was he throw out which saw him hit Robinson and it nearly ended up in his own net. Sums it up really, that this moment was the closest Norwich came to scoring! Good to get him back to getting a clean sheet and be well protected after a run of games where he had too much to do.



Gilchrist 6/10 - Ok. A few decent tackles and blocks but a few moments where he did not get close enough to his man or his positioning let him down but he often recovered and got back. Still poor in possession at times but he also had a few bits of play where he did ok. I still think teams see him as the weak link at the back and today with O’Hare and Hamer swapping a fair bit, Norwich did attack more down here. Felt we saw an improvement when Seriki came on and wonder if he play more of the home games due to the amount of attacks/possession we normally have?



Burrows 7.5/10 – Will probably get all the man of the match awards for scoring two and a decent performance if not outstanding but of course goals always get the headlines. I thought we had 3 or 4 who played better as odd as that sounds but he still was good and took his goals well, nice to see a long range shot put in and also a competent penalty. Always a threat as he got up and down. Thought he may get a hat trick as we had that late free kick and another few breaks. When was the last time a left back scored two in a game (Martin Pike springs to mind was it at Notts County going back to 1988! There must have been someone since then – not sure Enda did- recall Gage doing it at Luton and have a feeling he may have been left back that day?).



Ahmedhodzic 7.5/10 – Thought he was very good today and only reason I probably am not scoring him higher as Norwich barely threatened and were so punchless in attack but he has to take some credit for that too. Came onto the ball first and won every header/tackle. Read the game well and just looked a class act. It is odd as he struggled so much as the top level but in the Championship he looked levels above in terms of his poise, positional sense and play on the ball. Shows the step up sadly but maybe in a better and more confident team, if we did go up, he may give a better account. He was really composed and just oozed class today. Even when Sargent came on, he barely had a kick.



Robinson 7/10 – I am not always his biggest fan due to the errors he commits and chances he takes but he too was rock solid today and won the ball when it came forward, imposed himself and did not give them a sniff. He almost scored an own goal, but was not his fault of course! He did what he had to do today and some good crunching tackles and blocks too.



Davies 6.5/10 – Thought he was steady if not outstanding. Got his foot in, moved it on and just did the basics. Think he won the ball in the build up to the first? A few give aways/loose touches but Norwich never capitalised. He was fine and we won the midfield, picking up most of the loose balls and made sure when it mattered we had the ball in the more dangerous areas. Got a pull on his groin to quote Wilder (sounds rude!) but hopefully nothing serious but with Souza back, hopefully him and Peck will get a game or two off in the coming month or so and can be rotated.



Peck 7.5/10 – Really impressed with him today. Lots of energy and got around the pitch, covering so much ground. He got his foot in, picked up so many of the first and second balls but used it intelligently. Nothing flash but a few good through balls too so was not all sideways/backwards/basic stuff. Felt he kept it better and he gave an incredibly mature performance. His passing was very good today and his choice of pass, where to go and when to go was spot on. His level of effort and industry was shown when he fell to the floor absolutely shattered at full time.



Hamer 7.5/10 – Showed his absolute class with some sublime touches and bits of skill. Often when he had it, we looked our most dangerous. He nearly scored a worldie with that effort from half way but so much of our good play came from him nicking the ball and then sending us on the attack with a forward pass, run or piece of interplay. Some things did not come off and still a few petulant fouls (did not get booked at least today!) but he looks a class above most, if not all on the field.



McCallum 5.5/10 – Thought he, along with Brewster, was our weakest player even though he won a penalty. He was not bad by any stretch. He was just ok but often first half the ball came off him when he had it. Missed a good chance with the shanked finish and then misplaced a few other passes. Few pieces of link play, flick ons and headers but not sure on the ball he was as sure as many others. Did win the penalty as he nicked the ball and got his body in the way, buying a stupid tackle. He picked up a knock too, joining the ever-growing injury list but again hope it was more precautionary!



O’Hare 7.5/10 – He continues to impress and his level of work rate was superb again as he led the press and continued to buzz around. Some lovely link play, passes and combination stuff. He was very good in most things he did and some good dribbles/carries. His continual pressing of the defence and ability to harry was something else and so underrated. He has played almost every game too. It is so admirable his work ethic and ability to keep chasing/running. The only criticism is he had to score today! Had 4 or 5 good chances – a one on one first half and a few others where he got blocked/the keeper saved – the deflected one not sure how Gunn got to though! Excellent performance but took 0.5-1 mark off for the misses!



Brewster 5.5/10 – Sure, some may pan this mark but through whilst he was not awful, the game sort of him passed him by for long spells again. He had a few shots and some ok bits of link play first half but also felt he did not make runs or was too static when the players had the ball asking for a run. He does not play on the last man and comes too deep for it. We often had no one in the box when we attacked and he was the most advanced striker of course? Second half he dropped off and was not really involved much at all. Felt he should have come off long before he did. A good striker who was pressing more on two poor centre halves and with lots of good play also from O’Hare and Hamer would have got at least one goal but he never is in the right area or anticipates. Maybe I am being too harsh?



Subs -



Seriki 7.5/10 – Once again a really impressive cameo from the bench. Got on the ball, ran at them and some great slalom runs where he carried the ball and beat his man more than once. He has an impressive range of skills and love his positive play. Just sets them back and made sure they had to go the other way. Almost showing the best form of attack is attack! Been a positive surprise this season and great to have him back.



Norrington Davies 6/10 – Thought he was going to be out for a longer period after the injury (and disastrous game against Cardiff) but came on and did ok. Won a few headers/blocks and did the basics.



Campbell – Not given much time but nearly got in and in the brief time he was on, showed more movement than Brewster and won a free kick after being played in. Another nice sight to have him back and if Cannon/BBD are coming in, we have some real options up there now – albeit Moore may be out for a few weeks.



Manager: Wilder 7/10 – A clean sheet, a solid win and despite still having a bit of a patched-up team, we won at a canter. The only knock, is that we could have won by a few more but that is being greedy. We looked a side that is quite a few levels above Norwich and won every department. Tactically he got it spot on, knowing when to press and when to sit off and have almost a soft press. They caused issues by overplaying but we went after them when we knew we could profit. We got a deserved lead, the second came as they were preparing changes with Sargent etc coming on and then just eased to a win after this. A solid, professional performance where we won our races/battles but also played some good football. Did not need to have tons of the ball – when we had it, we were effective. Seemed confident and buoyant we are going to bring a few in soon and hopefully we can be stronger by the end of the month.





Norwich – Thought start of the season they would be in and around the playoffs. They have changed the squad around a bit and have a new manager but still thought there was enough quality. Sainz is obviously the leading scored in the league with 15 goals. I know they have been a bit up and down this season and have lost Sainz to suspension. Also like us have had injuries but I did expect them to give us a tougher game. They seem a side that is much better at home than away looking at the records and today they looked a real soft touch and lacked the belief to get a result. Oddly, they started ok and were well in the game but gradually started to cough up possession and we just stated to dominate. The goal was coming when it came and then they never really responded. The bizarre tactic of playing it out from the keeper to two clumsy and less than technically sound centre backs, that cost them the goal really – as it came from that – was persisted with. It was like this is the way we have been told to play (and much like Swansea and others) we will keep doing it, no matter what as that is the way we can get out and create. It was not working. Even when we did not press, they still lost it as the players at the back are not good or quick enough to bring it forward. Their passing from these areas and indeed throughout the game was sloppy and poor and they never really had any moves of note all game. They kept kicking it out constantly and it was very hot potato but lacked penetration too.



Not sure Cooper had a save to make – they had mostly long-range efforts and after the second went in, they sort of give up and seemed more worried about conceding more. They should have done if it was not for Gunn, who made some mistakes and baffling decisions but also made some good saves too. They did not even seem a team that thought it we get a goal; we may get another. Even the changes made no difference. Looked a really poor side and far worse than I expected. They had so much of the ball but was pointless possession really. They had most of it at the back and then went nowhere or gave it away. I think they will probably finish about mid table (right where they are) but on that evidence may fall away even more -admittedly they may get some key players back and of course are strong at home. It was the poorest Norwich side I have seen the Lane for a long time as despite them not being the yo yo side they had been, they still had been around the playoffs but looked a long way short today.



Opponent Man of the Match – No one really stood out. The goalie could fit into either category here! He made some stupid mistakes (the goal he made the ill-advised pass and maybe should have done better on the goal – weak wrists?) and flapped on crosses. Needed to stop passing it out when it was causing problems. However, he made quite a few superb saves (the Hamer one from the attempted chip, the deflected one was amazing and a few others too) so he really could be in either section! Hernandez was probably the most dangerous players and the only one who tried to run at us and make something happen but seemed frustrated with the lack of help from others around him.



Opponent Weak link - I thought the two centre halves were atrocious. Slow, cumbersome, and asking for trouble. Duffy is experienced but took too many risks. Doyle was as bad. They were not helped by the decision making either but either could take the award. The midfield were poor and Peck outplayed the experienced McLean. Marcondes was a non-factor too. Dobbin and Crnac were anonymous as out centre halves imposed themselves onto them.



Referee/Officials – Was ok. Nothing that bad really. He did try and make the game flow and was waving people off the floor who were diving. I have seen some say I thought the penalty was soft but he goes though him and is a foul anywhere else on the field and just poor defending. The rest of the game, he tried to let it flow for the most part but then at times he would give soft stuff too – both ways. The bookings were right with Gilchrist after trying a daft shot and racing back and hauling his man down. The Doyle one was cynical too. The ref had no help from his assistants at all – the one on the South Stand side was miles behind play and was guessing for many decisions and then a few other obvious fouls, the ref gave as his two colleagues just stood there.



Crowd – Seemed quiet but was cold and also as we won fairly comfortably without any real incident. Decent crowd despite it being just after Xmas and the temperature. The crowd had a few moments but overall I think they/we could do better to say we are top of the league and was too quiet really. Norwich are always well backed considering the distance but surprised so many stayed right to the end (maybe came on club coaches?) as never looked like scoring or coming back?

 

[Frank the tank]

What's the back of the championship summit.?

 

[Richeee]

2nd

 

[Roygbiv]

Agree with it all but thought you were slightly harsh on Brewster. Maybe I expect that little of him that I overrate him but I thought he led the line quite well today.

 

[Deadbat]

Agree with it all but thought you were slightly harsh on Brewster. Maybe I expect that little of him that I overrate him but I thought he led the line quite well today.

Did ok first half but struggling to think of one thing he did really well. Few bits of link but no nuance with his shooting - just hammers it. Second half he barely touched the ball. Gave him 6 - 6.5 at a push first half but as I say he was not showing or even pressing second half at all. A good striker with movement and anticipation scores today. People may say he did not have many chances but that's the issue. We had lots of good opportunities but noone on the end of it. Campbell even briefly looked much better I felt.

Game of opinons though innit?

 

[Roygbiv]

Did ok first half but struggling to think of one thing he did really well. Few bits of link but no nuance with his shooting - just hammers it. Second half he barely touched the ball. Gave him 6 - 6.5 at a push first half but as I say he was not showing or even pressing second half at all. A good striker with movement and anticipation scores today. People may say he did not have many chances but that's the issue. We had lots of good opportunities but noone on the end of it. Campbell even briefly looked much better I felt.

Game of opinons though innit?

Campbell definitely looked better. I genuinely think I'm at the point where I see Brewster like a youth team player so give him a bigger pass

 

[Wards]

Yeah, slightly harsh on Brewster and McCallum who were both decent in an all round good performance.

Hamer and Peck the pick of the bunch for me. I'd probably pick Hamer for MoM if pushed, that's his best position and they let him play.

 

[Cappy]

You went to the States? Should have said mate

Cheers deadbat

 

[Bergen Blade]

Cooper 6/10 – Not a lot to do at all in general play but fine for the most part with some decent kick outs and kept it moving. Took a few routine crosses/balls and did well to cut out a cross but cannot remember a proper save all game? The only issue was he throw out which saw him hit Robinson and it nearly ended up in his own net. Sums it up really, that this moment was the closest Norwich came to scoring! Good to get him back to getting a clean sheet and be well protected after a run of games where he had too much to do.

Cooper's throw reminded me of Tromsø's goalkeeper throwing the ball into his own goal in 1988:

 

[Large Mendonca]

Agree with it all but thought you were slightly harsh on Brewster. Maybe I expect that little of him that I overrate him but I thought he led the line quite well today.

My exact thoughts. Bang on with the ratings (O’Hare was my MoM) but thought it was one of Brewster’s better performances today.

 

[blademan31]

welcome back Deadbat! Missed your reports. Saw the game similar to me today.

Pretty sure cooper just threw it out himself rather than hitting Robbo! Held on to it for too long, would need to see it back

 

[Northyorksblade]

Missed you Deaders. Welcome back.

 

[Deadbat]

welcome back Deadbat! Missed your reports. Saw the game similar to me today.

Pretty sure cooper just threw it out himself rather than hitting Robbo! Held on to it for too long, would need to see it back

Did he? Thought he can't have done that? My eyes need testing clearly!

 

[Deadbat]

Been racking my mind about last left back/left wing back to score two in a game for us?

Osborn v Peterborough was left wing back I think? Or was RND playing there and Osborn midfield?

Silent Blade needed here!

 

[dc_blade]

Did he? Thought he can't have done that? My eyes need testing clearly!

Seemed to change his mind halfway through throwing it and pinged it straight into the ground—it then bounced past him and went out.

 

[Wards]

Cooper's throw reminded me of Tromsø's goalkeeper throwing the ball into his own goal in 1988:

Seem to remember this making it onto Nick Hancock's Football Nightmares. A classic VHS for those of a certain age.

 

[Stockholm syndrom]

United – A much more comfortable afternoon than I thought it might be and a very good performance. When I saw we had more or less the same team as Watford (weaker with Brooks out) I thought it may be a real slog but actually it was a really good performance where controlled the game with and without the ball. It was even to start and they had a few attacks/corners in the first 10 minutes, but after this we gradually got on top and started to pen them back. They continued to try and play it out and this tactic would prove to be their undoing. Our press was not always right on them and we had to choose when to go and when to wait (sort of soft to medium rather than hard press!) but in the end they made mistakes often without even that pressure. We started to have more of the ball where it mattered and a few half chances -McCallum had a very good one from the corner and a few other where it just did not drop or Brewster had some driven shots deflected. Hamer and O’Hare started to become more influential, you felt a goal coming. It was a decent shot and after this O’Hare should have scored a second on half time.



I thought Norwich may come out and have more of a go but it just carried on with more of the same with us having less of the ball but looking far more dangerous. We had more chances and then the second came from a penalty. After this, they made changes but there was only really one side who looked like scoring again and we had a number of good chances or moments we could not quite be clinical enough. O’Hare had at least 3 really good chances and a few deflected wide or the keeper made saves. They never really hurt us at all and we won all the loose stuff and used it intelligently. Thought we played pockets of nice stuff and used it really well. It was just a solid performance and 2-0 probably flattered them in the end. We got to see a few back (Davies and McCallum went off injured – hopefully not too bad) so it was 2 back and 2 out but Campbell and Seriki gave us some options we have not had off the bench! Not sure anyone played badly. Brewster and McCallum were just average but the rest played well or very well. Hamer, O’Hare, Peck, Anel and Burrows were my stand outs but to say I have named maybe the 5 best players on the pitch summed up our domination.



We go back top (before Leeds, as I expect them to do, will probably beat Wednesday) but at least with Burnley and Sunderland dropping points, we make up some points we had lost over the Xmas period. We have a long trip to Swansea and they play in a similar fashion to Norwich – tippy, tappy, play out from the back so hopefully we can play on this again. They lost to Leeds and Sunderland but gave them problems at home, in high scoring games. Hopefully, their very open style can see some of our creative players cause them problems. A draw would not be the worst result with Hull and Derby on the agenda – both struggling.



We now see if we can get Souza and Rak Sakyi back but also await the additions which seem very imminent from Wilder’s post-match interview. Of course, Brereton Diaz was there today so you would think that is close and Cannon seemingly is close too. I think we still need a centre back as got no cover there and need another dominant player in here (both fine today though) and another midfielder (Choudhury would be a fantastic addition for the run in) with Davies and Peck playing so much and not having a break.



Ratings:



Cooper 6/10 – Not a lot to do at all in general play but fine for the most part with some decent kick outs and kept it moving. Took a few routine crosses/balls and did well to cut out a cross but cannot remember a proper save all game? The only issue was he throw out which saw him hit Robinson and it nearly ended up in his own net. Sums it up really, that this moment was the closest Norwich came to scoring! Good to get him back to getting a clean sheet and be well protected after a run of games where he had too much to do.



Gilchrist 6/10 - Ok. A few decent tackles and blocks but a few moments where he did not get close enough to his man or his positioning let him down but he often recovered and got back. Still poor in possession at times but he also had a few bits of play where he did ok. I still think teams see him as the weak link at the back and today with O’Hare and Hamer swapping a fair bit, Norwich did attack more down here. Felt we saw an improvement when Seriki came on and wonder if he play more of the home games due to the amount of attacks/possession we normally have?



Burrows 7.5/10 – Will probably get all the man of the match awards for scoring two and a decent performance if not outstanding but of course goals always get the headlines. I thought we had 3 or 4 who played better as odd as that sounds but he still was good and took his goals well, nice to see a long range shot put in and also a competent penalty. Always a threat as he got up and down. Thought he may get a hat trick as we had that late free kick and another few breaks. When was the last time a left back scored two in a game (Martin Pike springs to mind was it at Notts County going back to 1988! There must have been someone since then – not sure Enda did- recall Gage doing it at Luton and have a feeling he may have been left back that day?).



Ahmedhodzic 7.5/10 – Thought he was very good today and only reason I probably am not scoring him higher as Norwich barely threatened and were so punchless in attack but he has to take some credit for that too. Came onto the ball first and won every header/tackle. Read the game well and just looked a class act. It is odd as he struggled so much as the top level but in the Championship he looked levels above in terms of his poise, positional sense and play on the ball. Shows the step up sadly but maybe in a better and more confident team, if we did go up, he may give a better account. He was really composed and just oozed class today. Even when Sargent came on, he barely had a kick.



Robinson 7/10 – I am not always his biggest fan due to the errors he commits and chances he takes but he too was rock solid today and won the ball when it came forward, imposed himself and did not give them a sniff. He almost scored an own goal, but was not his fault of course! He did what he had to do today and some good crunching tackles and blocks too.



Davies 6.5/10 – Thought he was steady if not outstanding. Got his foot in, moved it on and just did the basics. Think he won the ball in the build up to the first? A few give aways/loose touches but Norwich never capitalised. He was fine and we won the midfield, picking up most of the loose balls and made sure when it mattered we had the ball in the more dangerous areas. Got a pull on his groin to quote Wilder (sounds rude!) but hopefully nothing serious but with Souza back, hopefully him and Peck will get a game or two off in the coming month or so and can be rotated.



Peck 7.5/10 – Really impressed with him today. Lots of energy and got around the pitch, covering so much ground. He got his foot in, picked up so many of the first and second balls but used it intelligently. Nothing flash but a few good through balls too so was not all sideways/backwards/basic stuff. Felt he kept it better and he gave an incredibly mature performance. His passing was very good today and his choice of pass, where to go and when to go was spot on. His level of effort and industry was shown when he fell to the floor absolutely shattered at full time.



Hamer 7.5/10 – Showed his absolute class with some sublime touches and bits of skill. Often when he had it, we looked our most dangerous. He nearly scored a worldie with that effort from half way but so much of our good play came from him nicking the ball and then sending us on the attack with a forward pass, run or piece of interplay. Some things did not come off and still a few petulant fouls (did not get booked at least today!) but he looks a class above most, if not all on the field.



McCallum 5.5/10 – Thought he, along with Brewster, was our weakest player even though he won a penalty. He was not bad by any stretch. He was just ok but often first half the ball came off him when he had it. Missed a good chance with the shanked finish and then misplaced a few other passes. Few pieces of link play, flick ons and headers but not sure on the ball he was as sure as many others. Did win the penalty as he nicked the ball and got his body in the way, buying a stupid tackle. He picked up a knock too, joining the ever-growing injury list but again hope it was more precautionary!



O’Hare 7.5/10 – He continues to impress and his level of work rate was superb again as he led the press and continued to buzz around. Some lovely link play, passes and combination stuff. He was very good in most things he did and some good dribbles/carries. His continual pressing of the defence and ability to harry was something else and so underrated. He has played almost every game too. It is so admirable his work ethic and ability to keep chasing/running. The only criticism is he had to score today! Had 4 or 5 good chances – a one on one first half and a few others where he got blocked/the keeper saved – the deflected one not sure how Gunn got to though! Excellent performance but took 0.5-1 mark off for the misses!



Brewster 5.5/10 – Sure, some may pan this mark but through whilst he was not awful, the game sort of him passed him by for long spells again. He had a few shots and some ok bits of link play first half but also felt he did not make runs or was too static when the players had the ball asking for a run. He does not play on the last man and comes too deep for it. We often had no one in the box when we attacked and he was the most advanced striker of course? Second half he dropped off and was not really involved much at all. Felt he should have come off long before he did. A good striker who was pressing more on two poor centre halves and with lots of good play also from O’Hare and Hamer would have got at least one goal but he never is in the right area or anticipates. Maybe I am being too harsh?



Subs -



Seriki 7.5/10 – Once again a really impressive cameo from the bench. Got on the ball, ran at them and some great slalom runs where he carried the ball and beat his man more than once. He has an impressive range of skills and love his positive play. Just sets them back and made sure they had to go the other way. Almost showing the best form of attack is attack! Been a positive surprise this season and great to have him back.



Norrington Davies 6/10 – Thought he was going to be out for a longer period after the injury (and disastrous game against Cardiff) but came on and did ok. Won a few headers/blocks and did the basics.



Campbell – Not given much time but nearly got in and in the brief time he was on, showed more movement than Brewster and won a free kick after being played in. Another nice sight to have him back and if Cannon/BBD are coming in, we have some real options up there now – albeit Moore may be out for a few weeks.



Manager: Wilder 7/10 – A clean sheet, a solid win and despite still having a bit of a patched-up team, we won at a canter. The only knock, is that we could have won by a few more but that is being greedy. We looked a side that is quite a few levels above Norwich and won every department. Tactically he got it spot on, knowing when to press and when to sit off and have almost a soft press. They caused issues by overplaying but we went after them when we knew we could profit. We got a deserved lead, the second came as they were preparing changes with Sargent etc coming on and then just eased to a win after this. A solid, professional performance where we won our races/battles but also played some good football. Did not need to have tons of the ball – when we had it, we were effective. Seemed confident and buoyant we are going to bring a few in soon and hopefully we can be stronger by the end of the month.





Norwich – Thought start of the season they would be in and around the playoffs. They have changed the squad around a bit and have a new manager but still thought there was enough quality. Sainz is obviously the leading scored in the league with 15 goals. I know they have been a bit up and down this season and have lost Sainz to suspension. Also like us have had injuries but I did expect them to give us a tougher game. They seem a side that is much better at home than away looking at the records and today they looked a real soft touch and lacked the belief to get a result. Oddly, they started ok and were well in the game but gradually started to cough up possession and we just stated to dominate. The goal was coming when it came and then they never really responded. The bizarre tactic of playing it out from the keeper to two clumsy and less than technically sound centre backs, that cost them the goal really – as it came from that – was persisted with. It was like this is the way we have been told to play (and much like Swansea and others) we will keep doing it, no matter what as that is the way we can get out and create. It was not working. Even when we did not press, they still lost it as the players at the back are not good or quick enough to bring it forward. Their passing from these areas and indeed throughout the game was sloppy and poor and they never really had any moves of note all game. They kept kicking it out constantly and it was very hot potato but lacked penetration too.



Not sure Cooper had a save to make – they had mostly long-range efforts and after the second went in, they sort of give up and seemed more worried about conceding more. They should have done if it was not for Gunn, who made some mistakes and baffling decisions but also made some good saves too. They did not even seem a team that thought it we get a goal; we may get another. Even the changes made no difference. Looked a really poor side and far worse than I expected. They had so much of the ball but was pointless possession really. They had most of it at the back and then went nowhere or gave it away. I think they will probably finish about mid table (right where they are) but on that evidence may fall away even more -admittedly they may get some key players back and of course are strong at home. It was the poorest Norwich side I have seen the Lane for a long time as despite them not being the yo yo side they had been, they still had been around the playoffs but looked a long way short today.



Opponent Man of the Match – No one really stood out. The goalie could fit into either category here! He made some stupid mistakes (the goal he made the ill-advised pass and maybe should have done better on the goal – weak wrists?) and flapped on crosses. Needed to stop passing it out when it was causing problems. However, he made quite a few superb saves (the Hamer one from the attempted chip, the deflected one was amazing and a few others too) so he really could be in either section! Hernandez was probably the most dangerous players and the only one who tried to run at us and make something happen but seemed frustrated with the lack of help from others around him.



Opponent Weak link - I thought the two centre halves were atrocious. Slow, cumbersome, and asking for trouble. Duffy is experienced but took too many risks. Doyle was as bad. They were not helped by the decision making either but either could take the award. The midfield were poor and Peck outplayed the experienced McLean. Marcondes was a non-factor too. Dobbin and Crnac were anonymous as out centre halves imposed themselves onto them.



Referee/Officials – Was ok. Nothing that bad really. He did try and make the game flow and was waving people off the floor who were diving. I have seen some say I thought the penalty was soft but he goes though him and is a foul anywhere else on the field and just poor defending. The rest of the game, he tried to let it flow for the most part but then at times he would give soft stuff too – both ways. The bookings were right with Gilchrist after trying a daft shot and racing back and hauling his man down. The Doyle one was cynical too. The ref had no help from his assistants at all – the one on the South Stand side was miles behind play and was guessing for many decisions and then a few other obvious fouls, the ref gave as his two colleagues just stood there.



Crowd – Seemed quiet but was cold and also as we won fairly comfortably without any real incident. Decent crowd despite it being just after Xmas and the temperature. The crowd had a few moments but overall I think they/we could do better to say we are top of the league and was too quiet really. Norwich are always well backed considering the distance but surprised so many stayed right to the end (maybe came on club coaches?) as never looked like scoring or coming back?

Nice to have you back DB

 

[Addison]

Good to have you back DB. Agree with scores. Brewster first half more involved couple of good defensive headers from corners and got a couple of shots off. Second half largely invisible. Thought he looked better when moved out wide winning a couple in the air. His problem is he's constantly on his heels. Hamer looked to play him in but he wasn't making the runs. Compare that with Campbells cameo who was on the same wavelength and got in behind Narwich leading to a free kick on the edge of the box and a cross that Hamer just failed to convert at the far post. We won RB contributed but there are better options now in front of him.

Thought Anel was excellent today. He read all of their forwards runs and won his aerial duels. His added pace was sorely missed against Burnley and Sunderland and he has to be first choice CB now irrespective of Souttars replacement coming in. Tactically CW got it spot on. After about 20 minutes he called Hamer over and swopped him and Ohare putting Hamer on the right to cover Gilchrist who had been done a couple of times by their wide left player. Hamer on the right is more of a potent threat and his defensive contribution was much more controlled. Assuming BBD comes in you would hope this is where Hamer continues to play.

New owners now and signs are they are providing backing if CW says we are after 5 incomings. Really hope we find a quality centre back to play with Anel as his partnership with Souttar was the foundation that our season has been built on so far. A tall physically strong CM who can hit the ground running able to compete with and play alongside Souza also is a priority for me. Theres one currently with a flat in Sheffield with a surname the same as the Kings first name who fits the bill .

 

[Addison]

Been racking my mind about last left back/left wing back to score two in a game for us?

Osborn v Peterborough was left wing back I think? Or was RND playing there and Osborn midfield?

Silent Blade needed here!

Osborn started wide left in a three behind Sharp. RND was at left back.

 

[Addison]

Did he? Thought he can't have done that? My eyes need testing clearly!

Cooper looked to throw the ball out left quickly but as he was in mid throw JLT stepped in front of him causing Cooper to take evasive action to avoid hitting JLT. The result was he bounced it into the floor. Luckily it went out for a corner.

 

[Nagima]

Great Analysis Deadbat. Player ratings and observations spot on in my view. O'Hare lacks pace but you can't fault him on attitude. He works hard. He has vision to pick a pass. Gilchrist lacks a bit going forward but defensively he is sound enough.
A booking for a professional foul which you want your players to do if needed. Overall he has a good attitude and for a loan signing he really looks committed.

 

[Silent Blade]

Did he? Thought he can't have done that? My eyes need testing clearly!

Thread 'Cooper’s Magical Throw'

Jan 18, 2025

Pass of the season for me.

UTB

View attachment RPReplay_Final1737222415.mov

• William Carey
• Replies: 17
• Forum: General Blades Chat

• 
• 
• 

 

[Slug]

Cheers Deadbat. Good to have you back. Not having Hamers effort being called a chip though....definitely a lob!

 

[Isaw Joeshaw]

United – A much more comfortable afternoon than I thought it might be and a very good performance. When I saw we had more or less the same team as Watford (weaker with Brooks out) I thought it may be a real slog but actually it was a really good performance where controlled the game with and without the ball. It was even to start and they had a few attacks/corners in the first 10 minutes, but after this we gradually got on top and started to pen them back. They continued to try and play it out and this tactic would prove to be their undoing. Our press was not always right on them and we had to choose when to go and when to wait (sort of soft to medium rather than hard press!) but in the end they made mistakes often without even that pressure. We started to have more of the ball where it mattered and a few half chances -McCallum had a very good one from the corner and a few other where it just did not drop or Brewster had some driven shots deflected. Hamer and O’Hare started to become more influential, you felt a goal coming. It was a decent shot and after this O’Hare should have scored a second on half time.



I thought Norwich may come out and have more of a go but it just carried on with more of the same with us having less of the ball but looking far more dangerous. We had more chances and then the second came from a penalty. After this, they made changes but there was only really one side who looked like scoring again and we had a number of good chances or moments we could not quite be clinical enough. O’Hare had at least 3 really good chances and a few deflected wide or the keeper made saves. They never really hurt us at all and we won all the loose stuff and used it intelligently. Thought we played pockets of nice stuff and used it really well. It was just a solid performance and 2-0 probably flattered them in the end. We got to see a few back (Davies and McCallum went off injured – hopefully not too bad) so it was 2 back and 2 out but Campbell and Seriki gave us some options we have not had off the bench! Not sure anyone played badly. Brewster and McCallum were just average but the rest played well or very well. Hamer, O’Hare, Peck, Anel and Burrows were my stand outs but to say I have named maybe the 5 best players on the pitch summed up our domination.



We go back top (before Leeds, as I expect them to do, will probably beat Wednesday) but at least with Burnley and Sunderland dropping points, we make up some points we had lost over the Xmas period. We have a long trip to Swansea and they play in a similar fashion to Norwich – tippy, tappy, play out from the back so hopefully we can play on this again. They lost to Leeds and Sunderland but gave them problems at home, in high scoring games. Hopefully, their very open style can see some of our creative players cause them problems. A draw would not be the worst result with Hull and Derby on the agenda – both struggling.



We now see if we can get Souza and Rak Sakyi back but also await the additions which seem very imminent from Wilder’s post-match interview. Of course, Brereton Diaz was there today so you would think that is close and Cannon seemingly is close too. I think we still need a centre back as got no cover there and need another dominant player in here (both fine today though) and another midfielder (Choudhury would be a fantastic addition for the run in) with Davies and Peck playing so much and not having a break.



Ratings:



Cooper 6/10 – Not a lot to do at all in general play but fine for the most part with some decent kick outs and kept it moving. Took a few routine crosses/balls and did well to cut out a cross but cannot remember a proper save all game? The only issue was he throw out which saw him hit Robinson and it nearly ended up in his own net. Sums it up really, that this moment was the closest Norwich came to scoring! Good to get him back to getting a clean sheet and be well protected after a run of games where he had too much to do.



Gilchrist 6/10 - Ok. A few decent tackles and blocks but a few moments where he did not get close enough to his man or his positioning let him down but he often recovered and got back. Still poor in possession at times but he also had a few bits of play where he did ok. I still think teams see him as the weak link at the back and today with O’Hare and Hamer swapping a fair bit, Norwich did attack more down here. Felt we saw an improvement when Seriki came on and wonder if he play more of the home games due to the amount of attacks/possession we normally have?



Burrows 7.5/10 – Will probably get all the man of the match awards for scoring two and a decent performance if not outstanding but of course goals always get the headlines. I thought we had 3 or 4 who played better as odd as that sounds but he still was good and took his goals well, nice to see a long range shot put in and also a competent penalty. Always a threat as he got up and down. Thought he may get a hat trick as we had that late free kick and another few breaks. When was the last time a left back scored two in a game (Martin Pike springs to mind was it at Notts County going back to 1988! There must have been someone since then – not sure Enda did- recall Gage doing it at Luton and have a feeling he may have been left back that day?).



Ahmedhodzic 7.5/10 – Thought he was very good today and only reason I probably am not scoring him higher as Norwich barely threatened and were so punchless in attack but he has to take some credit for that too. Came onto the ball first and won every header/tackle. Read the game well and just looked a class act. It is odd as he struggled so much as the top level but in the Championship he looked levels above in terms of his poise, positional sense and play on the ball. Shows the step up sadly but maybe in a better and more confident team, if we did go up, he may give a better account. He was really composed and just oozed class today. Even when Sargent came on, he barely had a kick.



Robinson 7/10 – I am not always his biggest fan due to the errors he commits and chances he takes but he too was rock solid today and won the ball when it came forward, imposed himself and did not give them a sniff. He almost scored an own goal, but was not his fault of course! He did what he had to do today and some good crunching tackles and blocks too.



Davies 6.5/10 – Thought he was steady if not outstanding. Got his foot in, moved it on and just did the basics. Think he won the ball in the build up to the first? A few give aways/loose touches but Norwich never capitalised. He was fine and we won the midfield, picking up most of the loose balls and made sure when it mattered we had the ball in the more dangerous areas. Got a pull on his groin to quote Wilder (sounds rude!) but hopefully nothing serious but with Souza back, hopefully him and Peck will get a game or two off in the coming month or so and can be rotated.



Peck 7.5/10 – Really impressed with him today. Lots of energy and got around the pitch, covering so much ground. He got his foot in, picked up so many of the first and second balls but used it intelligently. Nothing flash but a few good through balls too so was not all sideways/backwards/basic stuff. Felt he kept it better and he gave an incredibly mature performance. His passing was very good today and his choice of pass, where to go and when to go was spot on. His level of effort and industry was shown when he fell to the floor absolutely shattered at full time.



Hamer 7.5/10 – Showed his absolute class with some sublime touches and bits of skill. Often when he had it, we looked our most dangerous. He nearly scored a worldie with that effort from half way but so much of our good play came from him nicking the ball and then sending us on the attack with a forward pass, run or piece of interplay. Some things did not come off and still a few petulant fouls (did not get booked at least today!) but he looks a class above most, if not all on the field.



McCallum 5.5/10 – Thought he, along with Brewster, was our weakest player even though he won a penalty. He was not bad by any stretch. He was just ok but often first half the ball came off him when he had it. Missed a good chance with the shanked finish and then misplaced a few other passes. Few pieces of link play, flick ons and headers but not sure on the ball he was as sure as many others. Did win the penalty as he nicked the ball and got his body in the way, buying a stupid tackle. He picked up a knock too, joining the ever-growing injury list but again hope it was more precautionary!



O’Hare 7.5/10 – He continues to impress and his level of work rate was superb again as he led the press and continued to buzz around. Some lovely link play, passes and combination stuff. He was very good in most things he did and some good dribbles/carries. His continual pressing of the defence and ability to harry was something else and so underrated. He has played almost every game too. It is so admirable his work ethic and ability to keep chasing/running. The only criticism is he had to score today! Had 4 or 5 good chances – a one on one first half and a few others where he got blocked/the keeper saved – the deflected one not sure how Gunn got to though! Excellent performance but took 0.5-1 mark off for the misses!



Brewster 5.5/10 – Sure, some may pan this mark but through whilst he was not awful, the game sort of him passed him by for long spells again. He had a few shots and some ok bits of link play first half but also felt he did not make runs or was too static when the players had the ball asking for a run. He does not play on the last man and comes too deep for it. We often had no one in the box when we attacked and he was the most advanced striker of course? Second half he dropped off and was not really involved much at all. Felt he should have come off long before he did. A good striker who was pressing more on two poor centre halves and with lots of good play also from O’Hare and Hamer would have got at least one goal but he never is in the right area or anticipates. Maybe I am being too harsh?



Subs -



Seriki 7.5/10 – Once again a really impressive cameo from the bench. Got on the ball, ran at them and some great slalom runs where he carried the ball and beat his man more than once. He has an impressive range of skills and love his positive play. Just sets them back and made sure they had to go the other way. Almost showing the best form of attack is attack! Been a positive surprise this season and great to have him back.



Norrington Davies 6/10 – Thought he was going to be out for a longer period after the injury (and disastrous game against Cardiff) but came on and did ok. Won a few headers/blocks and did the basics.



Campbell – Not given much time but nearly got in and in the brief time he was on, showed more movement than Brewster and won a free kick after being played in. Another nice sight to have him back and if Cannon/BBD are coming in, we have some real options up there now – albeit Moore may be out for a few weeks.



Manager: Wilder 7/10 – A clean sheet, a solid win and despite still having a bit of a patched-up team, we won at a canter. The only knock, is that we could have won by a few more but that is being greedy. We looked a side that is quite a few levels above Norwich and won every department. Tactically he got it spot on, knowing when to press and when to sit off and have almost a soft press. They caused issues by overplaying but we went after them when we knew we could profit. We got a deserved lead, the second came as they were preparing changes with Sargent etc coming on and then just eased to a win after this. A solid, professional performance where we won our races/battles but also played some good football. Did not need to have tons of the ball – when we had it, we were effective. Seemed confident and buoyant we are going to bring a few in soon and hopefully we can be stronger by the end of the month.





Norwich – Thought start of the season they would be in and around the playoffs. They have changed the squad around a bit and have a new manager but still thought there was enough quality. Sainz is obviously the leading scored in the league with 15 goals. I know they have been a bit up and down this season and have lost Sainz to suspension. Also like us have had injuries but I did expect them to give us a tougher game. They seem a side that is much better at home than away looking at the records and today they looked a real soft touch and lacked the belief to get a result. Oddly, they started ok and were well in the game but gradually started to cough up possession and we just stated to dominate. The goal was coming when it came and then they never really responded. The bizarre tactic of playing it out from the keeper to two clumsy and less than technically sound centre backs, that cost them the goal really – as it came from that – was persisted with. It was like this is the way we have been told to play (and much like Swansea and others) we will keep doing it, no matter what as that is the way we can get out and create. It was not working. Even when we did not press, they still lost it as the players at the back are not good or quick enough to bring it forward. Their passing from these areas and indeed throughout the game was sloppy and poor and they never really had any moves of note all game. They kept kicking it out constantly and it was very hot potato but lacked penetration too.



Not sure Cooper had a save to make – they had mostly long-range efforts and after the second went in, they sort of give up and seemed more worried about conceding more. They should have done if it was not for Gunn, who made some mistakes and baffling decisions but also made some good saves too. They did not even seem a team that thought it we get a goal; we may get another. Even the changes made no difference. Looked a really poor side and far worse than I expected. They had so much of the ball but was pointless possession really. They had most of it at the back and then went nowhere or gave it away. I think they will probably finish about mid table (right where they are) but on that evidence may fall away even more -admittedly they may get some key players back and of course are strong at home. It was the poorest Norwich side I have seen the Lane for a long time as despite them not being the yo yo side they had been, they still had been around the playoffs but looked a long way short today.



Opponent Man of the Match – No one really stood out. The goalie could fit into either category here! He made some stupid mistakes (the goal he made the ill-advised pass and maybe should have done better on the goal – weak wrists?) and flapped on crosses. Needed to stop passing it out when it was causing problems. However, he made quite a few superb saves (the Hamer one from the attempted chip, the deflected one was amazing and a few others too) so he really could be in either section! Hernandez was probably the most dangerous players and the only one who tried to run at us and make something happen but seemed frustrated with the lack of help from others around him.



Opponent Weak link - I thought the two centre halves were atrocious. Slow, cumbersome, and asking for trouble. Duffy is experienced but took too many risks. Doyle was as bad. They were not helped by the decision making either but either could take the award. The midfield were poor and Peck outplayed the experienced McLean. Marcondes was a non-factor too. Dobbin and Crnac were anonymous as out centre halves imposed themselves onto them.



Referee/Officials – Was ok. Nothing that bad really. He did try and make the game flow and was waving people off the floor who were diving. I have seen some say I thought the penalty was soft but he goes though him and is a foul anywhere else on the field and just poor defending. The rest of the game, he tried to let it flow for the most part but then at times he would give soft stuff too – both ways. The bookings were right with Gilchrist after trying a daft shot and racing back and hauling his man down. The Doyle one was cynical too. The ref had no help from his assistants at all – the one on the South Stand side was miles behind play and was guessing for many decisions and then a few other obvious fouls, the ref gave as his two colleagues just stood there.



Crowd – Seemed quiet but was cold and also as we won fairly comfortably without any real incident. Decent crowd despite it being just after Xmas and the temperature. The crowd had a few moments but overall I think they/we could do better to say we are top of the league and was too quiet really. Norwich are always well backed considering the distance but surprised so many stayed right to the end (maybe came on club coaches?) as never looked like scoring or coming back?

Good assessment of Robbo’s contribution today .

Granted he is capable of the odd mistake but by and large , I think he has done a good job as a stand in for Harry Souttar which was never going to be an easy task and it should be remembered that even the latter , fine player that he has been for us so far , was not immune to such lapses .

 

[Keen Blade]

Yeah, slightly harsh on Brewster and McCallum who were both decent in an all round good performance.

Hamer and Peck the pick of the bunch for me. I'd probably pick Hamer for MoM if pushed, that's his best position and they let him play.

We had no inverted wingers today.
Hurrah
We had Hamer on his R foot.
We had 2 L-footers operating down the L flank.
Consequently all that sideways/backwards crap went out of our game and we weren't turning inside from the flanks to get blocked every time.
Our attacking was much more fluid and more enjoyable to watch.
And the players looked happier.

So let's drop all this "Modern game" nonsense with its choked inverted wingers and obsession with possession.
For a supposedly injury weakened team , we looked way more attractive & effective with players on their natural side of the pitch.
I hope CW noticed this today.

And a little note of praise for O'Hare.
I would love to see a the stats on his ground covered today - he must run ten times the distance covered by the lazy Brewster ...
whose lack of movement over 90 mins was thrown into sharp focus when Campbell came on + made more useful runs , creating more danger in a few minutes than Brewster had all game.

My conclusion re Brewster is that he is just not very intelligent and hasn't progressed one iota in 4 years.
Even his effort is now mediocre - he looks like he's just going through the motions until his departure - which looks inevitable , given the club's efforts to sign a striker.

I pray that TC stays fit , he looked so sharp today.
With (possibly Cannon) , TC & Moore for what will be a lone striker slot (if we put BBD on LW) , we have 3 contenders and can send One out on loan , keeping Brewster as a last resort.

We'll have JRS or Hamer on RW , BBD or McCallum on LW , and can finally look a balanced attack with 2 players for each position.
O'Hare can stay as the no. 10.

If JRS is played on the RW , Hamer can play alongside Souza , with Peck & Davies in reserve.

If we recruit another DM , we'll a Drlmost have "too many" midfielders !

The priority now (if Cannon & BBD are done) is a really good (6'3" min) first choice CB who can bring a commanding & calming influence to the defence.

It's in our hands

 

[Charlieblade]

United – A much more comfortable afternoon than I thought it might be and a very good performance. When I saw we had more or less the same team as Watford (weaker with Brooks out) I thought it may be a real slog but actually it was a really good performance where controlled the game with and without the ball. It was even to start and they had a few attacks/corners in the first 10 minutes, but after this we gradually got on top and started to pen them back. They continued to try and play it out and this tactic would prove to be their undoing. Our press was not always right on them and we had to choose when to go and when to wait (sort of soft to medium rather than hard press!) but in the end they made mistakes often without even that pressure. We started to have more of the ball where it mattered and a few half chances -McCallum had a very good one from the corner and a few other where it just did not drop or Brewster had some driven shots deflected. Hamer and O’Hare started to become more influential, you felt a goal coming. It was a decent shot and after this O’Hare should have scored a second on half time.



I thought Norwich may come out and have more of a go but it just carried on with more of the same with us having less of the ball but looking far more dangerous. We had more chances and then the second came from a penalty. After this, they made changes but there was only really one side who looked like scoring again and we had a number of good chances or moments we could not quite be clinical enough. O’Hare had at least 3 really good chances and a few deflected wide or the keeper made saves. They never really hurt us at all and we won all the loose stuff and used it intelligently. Thought we played pockets of nice stuff and used it really well. It was just a solid performance and 2-0 probably flattered them in the end. We got to see a few back (Davies and McCallum went off injured – hopefully not too bad) so it was 2 back and 2 out but Campbell and Seriki gave us some options we have not had off the bench! Not sure anyone played badly. Brewster and McCallum were just average but the rest played well or very well. Hamer, O’Hare, Peck, Anel and Burrows were my stand outs but to say I have named maybe the 5 best players on the pitch summed up our domination.



We go back top (before Leeds, as I expect them to do, will probably beat Wednesday) but at least with Burnley and Sunderland dropping points, we make up some points we had lost over the Xmas period. We have a long trip to Swansea and they play in a similar fashion to Norwich – tippy, tappy, play out from the back so hopefully we can play on this again. They lost to Leeds and Sunderland but gave them problems at home, in high scoring games. Hopefully, their very open style can see some of our creative players cause them problems. A draw would not be the worst result with Hull and Derby on the agenda – both struggling.



We now see if we can get Souza and Rak Sakyi back but also await the additions which seem very imminent from Wilder’s post-match interview. Of course, Brereton Diaz was there today so you would think that is close and Cannon seemingly is close too. I think we still need a centre back as got no cover there and need another dominant player in here (both fine today though) and another midfielder (Choudhury would be a fantastic addition for the run in) with Davies and Peck playing so much and not having a break.



Ratings:



Cooper 6/10 – Not a lot to do at all in general play but fine for the most part with some decent kick outs and kept it moving. Took a few routine crosses/balls and did well to cut out a cross but cannot remember a proper save all game? The only issue was he throw out which saw him hit Robinson and it nearly ended up in his own net. Sums it up really, that this moment was the closest Norwich came to scoring! Good to get him back to getting a clean sheet and be well protected after a run of games where he had too much to do.



Gilchrist 6/10 - Ok. A few decent tackles and blocks but a few moments where he did not get close enough to his man or his positioning let him down but he often recovered and got back. Still poor in possession at times but he also had a few bits of play where he did ok. I still think teams see him as the weak link at the back and today with O’Hare and Hamer swapping a fair bit, Norwich did attack more down here. Felt we saw an improvement when Seriki came on and wonder if he play more of the home games due to the amount of attacks/possession we normally have?



Burrows 7.5/10 – Will probably get all the man of the match awards for scoring two and a decent performance if not outstanding but of course goals always get the headlines. I thought we had 3 or 4 who played better as odd as that sounds but he still was good and took his goals well, nice to see a long range shot put in and also a competent penalty. Always a threat as he got up and down. Thought he may get a hat trick as we had that late free kick and another few breaks. When was the last time a left back scored two in a game (Martin Pike springs to mind was it at Notts County going back to 1988! There must have been someone since then – not sure Enda did- recall Gage doing it at Luton and have a feeling he may have been left back that day?).



Ahmedhodzic 7.5/10 – Thought he was very good today and only reason I probably am not scoring him higher as Norwich barely threatened and were so punchless in attack but he has to take some credit for that too. Came onto the ball first and won every header/tackle. Read the game well and just looked a class act. It is odd as he struggled so much as the top level but in the Championship he looked levels above in terms of his poise, positional sense and play on the ball. Shows the step up sadly but maybe in a better and more confident team, if we did go up, he may give a better account. He was really composed and just oozed class today. Even when Sargent came on, he barely had a kick.



Robinson 7/10 – I am not always his biggest fan due to the errors he commits and chances he takes but he too was rock solid today and won the ball when it came forward, imposed himself and did not give them a sniff. He almost scored an own goal, but was not his fault of course! He did what he had to do today and some good crunching tackles and blocks too.



Davies 6.5/10 – Thought he was steady if not outstanding. Got his foot in, moved it on and just did the basics. Think he won the ball in the build up to the first? A few give aways/loose touches but Norwich never capitalised. He was fine and we won the midfield, picking up most of the loose balls and made sure when it mattered we had the ball in the more dangerous areas. Got a pull on his groin to quote Wilder (sounds rude!) but hopefully nothing serious but with Souza back, hopefully him and Peck will get a game or two off in the coming month or so and can be rotated.



Peck 7.5/10 – Really impressed with him today. Lots of energy and got around the pitch, covering so much ground. He got his foot in, picked up so many of the first and second balls but used it intelligently. Nothing flash but a few good through balls too so was not all sideways/backwards/basic stuff. Felt he kept it better and he gave an incredibly mature performance. His passing was very good today and his choice of pass, where to go and when to go was spot on. His level of effort and industry was shown when he fell to the floor absolutely shattered at full time.



Hamer 7.5/10 – Showed his absolute class with some sublime touches and bits of skill. Often when he had it, we looked our most dangerous. He nearly scored a worldie with that effort from half way but so much of our good play came from him nicking the ball and then sending us on the attack with a forward pass, run or piece of interplay. Some things did not come off and still a few petulant fouls (did not get booked at least today!) but he looks a class above most, if not all on the field.



McCallum 5.5/10 – Thought he, along with Brewster, was our weakest player even though he won a penalty. He was not bad by any stretch. He was just ok but often first half the ball came off him when he had it. Missed a good chance with the shanked finish and then misplaced a few other passes. Few pieces of link play, flick ons and headers but not sure on the ball he was as sure as many others. Did win the penalty as he nicked the ball and got his body in the way, buying a stupid tackle. He picked up a knock too, joining the ever-growing injury list but again hope it was more precautionary!



O’Hare 7.5/10 – He continues to impress and his level of work rate was superb again as he led the press and continued to buzz around. Some lovely link play, passes and combination stuff. He was very good in most things he did and some good dribbles/carries. His continual pressing of the defence and ability to harry was something else and so underrated. He has played almost every game too. It is so admirable his work ethic and ability to keep chasing/running. The only criticism is he had to score today! Had 4 or 5 good chances – a one on one first half and a few others where he got blocked/the keeper saved – the deflected one not sure how Gunn got to though! Excellent performance but took 0.5-1 mark off for the misses!



Brewster 5.5/10 – Sure, some may pan this mark but through whilst he was not awful, the game sort of him passed him by for long spells again. He had a few shots and some ok bits of link play first half but also felt he did not make runs or was too static when the players had the ball asking for a run. He does not play on the last man and comes too deep for it. We often had no one in the box when we attacked and he was the most advanced striker of course? Second half he dropped off and was not really involved much at all. Felt he should have come off long before he did. A good striker who was pressing more on two poor centre halves and with lots of good play also from O’Hare and Hamer would have got at least one goal but he never is in the right area or anticipates. Maybe I am being too harsh?



Subs -



Seriki 7.5/10 – Once again a really impressive cameo from the bench. Got on the ball, ran at them and some great slalom runs where he carried the ball and beat his man more than once. He has an impressive range of skills and love his positive play. Just sets them back and made sure they had to go the other way. Almost showing the best form of attack is attack! Been a positive surprise this season and great to have him back.



Norrington Davies 6/10 – Thought he was going to be out for a longer period after the injury (and disastrous game against Cardiff) but came on and did ok. Won a few headers/blocks and did the basics.



Campbell – Not given much time but nearly got in and in the brief time he was on, showed more movement than Brewster and won a free kick after being played in. Another nice sight to have him back and if Cannon/BBD are coming in, we have some real options up there now – albeit Moore may be out for a few weeks.



Manager: Wilder 7/10 – A clean sheet, a solid win and despite still having a bit of a patched-up team, we won at a canter. The only knock, is that we could have won by a few more but that is being greedy. We looked a side that is quite a few levels above Norwich and won every department. Tactically he got it spot on, knowing when to press and when to sit off and have almost a soft press. They caused issues by overplaying but we went after them when we knew we could profit. We got a deserved lead, the second came as they were preparing changes with Sargent etc coming on and then just eased to a win after this. A solid, professional performance where we won our races/battles but also played some good football. Did not need to have tons of the ball – when we had it, we were effective. Seemed confident and buoyant we are going to bring a few in soon and hopefully we can be stronger by the end of the month.





Norwich – Thought start of the season they would be in and around the playoffs. They have changed the squad around a bit and have a new manager but still thought there was enough quality. Sainz is obviously the leading scored in the league with 15 goals. I know they have been a bit up and down this season and have lost Sainz to suspension. Also like us have had injuries but I did expect them to give us a tougher game. They seem a side that is much better at home than away looking at the records and today they looked a real soft touch and lacked the belief to get a result. Oddly, they started ok and were well in the game but gradually started to cough up possession and we just stated to dominate. The goal was coming when it came and then they never really responded. The bizarre tactic of playing it out from the keeper to two clumsy and less than technically sound centre backs, that cost them the goal really – as it came from that – was persisted with. It was like this is the way we have been told to play (and much like Swansea and others) we will keep doing it, no matter what as that is the way we can get out and create. It was not working. Even when we did not press, they still lost it as the players at the back are not good or quick enough to bring it forward. Their passing from these areas and indeed throughout the game was sloppy and poor and they never really had any moves of note all game. They kept kicking it out constantly and it was very hot potato but lacked penetration too.



Not sure Cooper had a save to make – they had mostly long-range efforts and after the second went in, they sort of give up and seemed more worried about conceding more. They should have done if it was not for Gunn, who made some mistakes and baffling decisions but also made some good saves too. They did not even seem a team that thought it we get a goal; we may get another. Even the changes made no difference. Looked a really poor side and far worse than I expected. They had so much of the ball but was pointless possession really. They had most of it at the back and then went nowhere or gave it away. I think they will probably finish about mid table (right where they are) but on that evidence may fall away even more -admittedly they may get some key players back and of course are strong at home. It was the poorest Norwich side I have seen the Lane for a long time as despite them not being the yo yo side they had been, they still had been around the playoffs but looked a long way short today.



Opponent Man of the Match – No one really stood out. The goalie could fit into either category here! He made some stupid mistakes (the goal he made the ill-advised pass and maybe should have done better on the goal – weak wrists?) and flapped on crosses. Needed to stop passing it out when it was causing problems. However, he made quite a few superb saves (the Hamer one from the attempted chip, the deflected one was amazing and a few others too) so he really could be in either section! Hernandez was probably the most dangerous players and the only one who tried to run at us and make something happen but seemed frustrated with the lack of help from others around him.



Opponent Weak link - I thought the two centre halves were atrocious. Slow, cumbersome, and asking for trouble. Duffy is experienced but took too many risks. Doyle was as bad. They were not helped by the decision making either but either could take the award. The midfield were poor and Peck outplayed the experienced McLean. Marcondes was a non-factor too. Dobbin and Crnac were anonymous as out centre halves imposed themselves onto them.



Referee/Officials – Was ok. Nothing that bad really. He did try and make the game flow and was waving people off the floor who were diving. I have seen some say I thought the penalty was soft but he goes though him and is a foul anywhere else on the field and just poor defending. The rest of the game, he tried to let it flow for the most part but then at times he would give soft stuff too – both ways. The bookings were right with Gilchrist after trying a daft shot and racing back and hauling his man down. The Doyle one was cynical too. The ref had no help from his assistants at all – the one on the South Stand side was miles behind play and was guessing for many decisions and then a few other obvious fouls, the ref gave as his two colleagues just stood there.



Crowd – Seemed quiet but was cold and also as we won fairly comfortably without any real incident. Decent crowd despite it being just after Xmas and the temperature. The crowd had a few moments but overall I think they/we could do better to say we are top of the league and was too quiet really. Norwich are always well backed considering the distance but surprised so many stayed right to the end (maybe came on club coaches?) as never looked like scoring or coming back?

Glad you are back after your holiday, which sounds like you enjoyed it. Living so far away I do rely on your reports so you were missed by at least one poster.

Due to time difference I missed the game live and only recently caught up with extended highlights.
In my view the slow start allowed blades to show more pace and urgency, once they realised Norwich had little to offer. Great performance and result for us.
Neat match report from deadbat. Brewster is doing himself no favours is he?

 

[Revolution]

Been racking my mind about last left back/left wing back to score two in a game for us?

Osborn v Peterborough was left wing back I think? Or was RND playing there and Osborn midfield?

Silent Blade needed here!

RND was left wing back when Osborn got his double.

I think the last LB/LWB to score twice in a league game was Martin Pike, in the 4-1 win at Notts County on Boxing Day 1988.

Since then a few RB/RWB have done it:

Kevin Gage v Luton 1994-5
Tony McMahon v Crawley 2012-13 (2 direct free kicks)
Ben Davies v Colchester 2014-5 (one pen: might have been in midfield)
Jaden Bogle v Stoke 2022-3

 

[Revolution]

Nice to have the reports back, Deadbat. Also really enjoyed your Christmas pod from NY.

What the hell is wrong with Championship managers? Why does hardly anyone actually try to take us on at the Lane and put pressure on us? It’s nuts.

This is normally a feisty fixture but Norwich were as flat as a pancake. Gunn is having a poor season but they have him to thank for not getting thrashed. They had nothing up top at all. That Dobbin in particular was awful.

That’s our 9th straight game against them without defeat. The last defeat was the James Maddison timewasting masterclass game.

Big credit to the boys for keeping a tight grip on the game after we led. We were attacking right to the death which is great to see.

O’Hare my MOTM closely followed by Hamer. Thought all the back 4 very good bar Gilchrist who let them have too much room. Excellent cameo by Seriki though. McCallum looked a bit lost in the first half but it appears he had to step in at the last minute. Campbell stretched them more after coming on than Brewster had in the whole game though the latter worked very hard and actually did some good things further back. Davies not quite in it but Peck was very good and compensated.

A very good weekend for us results wise irrespective of the result of the Donkey Derby. More point there for the taking this week too.

 

[Champagneblade]

Welcome back DB. Happy New Year to you.

Glad you had a good break. Thanks for the report.

My only experience of watching United play was in New York beneath the Empire State Building and that was on Bouncing Day.

Hopefully you can keep your record going now!