For what it's worth...my thoughts about Derby..

First half a more solid performance than has been seen for many games. Looked organised and comfortable at the back. Played the ball around well, but lacked any sort of cutting edge and final ball too often poor.
Less impressive second half and never really looked like recovering after going behind.

Re individual performances, I thought positive points were performances of Mulumbo and Tettey. Both played the ball well. Both won possession and broke up most Derby threat. Tettey was much better than in recent games and cut out his increasing tendency to give ball away. Mulumbo also played ball around neatly, comfortable in possession. Also thought Bassong had a decent game (awaits barrage of abuse) as did Bennett and Brady (long overdue). And Naismith (again awaits barrage of protest) I think is an important element in the team, talking and organising continually and neat and tidy. A football brain.
Negatives unfortunately included Wes, who is having a poor run. Gave ball away, wrong decisions and never made much impact in attacking half. Equally, Murphy, after a good return at QPR, was disappointing. Lafferty, as expected, showed why he has had little opportunity. Simply not good enough (I don't understand his cult hero status amongst fans).

I thought Derby were disappointing. They also had a quality squad and I expected them to overpower us but they didn't look impressive. It was a game which was there to be won.

Norwich away support, given the circumstances, was good. Stayed with the team throughout. Chanting for Johnson and applause for him at end (and even his goal!) did them credit. Despite the increasing number of young dickheads who appear to be making their voices heard more loudly, I was proud to be part of the away support this week, whereas a little embarrassed at QPR.

Re where we go from here, I have no idea! Think probably most clubs would have changed manager before or by this stage. Possibly the only way to go. Neil appears unable to halt the decline, and unable to change games. Worryingly, still not sure what his best team is.

What I do know, is that I really miss Bradley! His commitment and passion were evident yesterday. We lack that. And what is beginning to worry me most is that when the goal went in, I didn't feel that usual gut wrenching sinking feeling I usually feel. I'm beginning to climatise to the disappointment. Bugger...

Posted By: neverblue, Nov 27, 13:21:35