Who’s The Pride of Anglia, We Are

Article by Colin Rowe

Click here to follow e-Norwich City on Twitter!

It might not have been our most convincing performance of the season, but not only did Norwich win a third successive East Anglian derby, but went top of the table for a couple of hours.

While the Y’Army faithful might have been hoping for something a little more comfortable, all it took was a single Lewis Grabban goal to give Norfolk bragging rights over our Suffolk neighbours.

Honestly, Norwich never really looked in danger and while the defence looked vulnerable Ipswich struggled to capitalise and on the rare occasions they actually threatened the goal found John Ruddy more than equal to the task.

Norwich now face a League Cup tie against League One side Crawley Town before Bournemouth make the trip from the south coast to Carrow Road.

Given the Canary’s record in cup competition, in particular against lower league opposition, it would hardly be a shock if City lost this game.

The only advantage is Neil Adams will be given a free-shot at giving some squad players a run-out including the likes of Josh Murphy, Jamar Loza and Adel Gafaiti, as well as new signings Carlos Cuallar and Cameron Jerome.

If Norwich fans were to be honest we could not really care less about the result against Crawley, with the only advantage of winning being to maintain momentum in our ultimate goal of seeking promotion back to the Premiership.

However, any opportunity to give the youngsters a run out is to be appreciated as it is only by pitching them in these situations you find out if they are ready for the rigours of a full league campaign.

Tactically and in terms of line-up is it difficult to know what to expect on Tuesday night.

Expect to see Josh Murphy, Declan Rudd as well as Jerome and Cuellar starting, but, while Norwich fans might be in favour of it, Loza and Grafaiti are unlikely to get a starting spot.

This gives Adams the chance to vary the tactics depending on how the mood catches him.

There are enough back-up first teamers to go out and play to dominate lower league opposition, while there is also the chance to give some of his FA Youth Cup winning squad the chance to shine.

If all goes to plan Norwich should not struggle against Crawley and let’s just hope we get through the game with no injury worries or bruised egos.

On the Ball City!

© e-Football 2014 All rights reserved no part of this document or this website may be reproduced without consent of e-Football