The ACN Match Review 24/25 – Blackburn Rovers (h)

How did we play?

We were bright and purposeful with Forson and Sainz buzzing around like busy bees, causing all manner of mischief. Sargent looked fit again and it was a pleasure watching him play a purer striker’s role and not trying to be Ashley Barnes at the same time. So lots of lovely attacking football with the team pushing forward as much as they can. 

Trouble is, Thorup’s new style depends very much on two things: a) having players with enough technical ability to not give the ball away, and b) having a team who are quick enough to snuff out the resulting counter attack. Both Blackburn’s goals came from balls generously coughed up by us as we attacked them and as easy as it is to blame the defence for conceding goals, we can’t expect to play such a high line then moan when our defenders get caught out after the attackers have given the ball away so cheaply, especially when one of those defenders has the pace of an arthritic ox. 

However, this was an entertaining draw, a really positive performance and our new and young players look well up for JHT’s fun-time football.

What was the best bit of the game?

Josh Sargent had already missed about 37 absolute sitters but just as we were losing hope at 1-0 down, up he popped, almost in slow-motion, and rifled the ball into the roof of the net with his left foot. It was a well-worked team goal and a beautiful take. Sarge is back!

What was the worst bit of the game?

At precisely 86 minutes and 30 seconds into this game, as Norwich slowly retreated towards their own box in an effort to kill the game, we supporters basking in a good second half performance and no Blackburn threat seeming imminent, I said to my neighbour, “There’s something disturbing about this atmosphere – it has all the hallmarks of a softly conceded equaliser.” 30 seconds later it arrived, proving that Norwich should remember that attack is the only way to defend and that I should keep my thoughts to myself.

What was the atmosphere like?

Average summer afternoon fare in the first half but for a lusty OTBC, however the second half was full of vibes and the play on the pitch really helped it. There’s a discernible difference in atmosphere now the rail seating is in and the drum was in full swing to keep the songs going. I’d like to think it’ll really help on those cold winter nights when the team and crowd need warming up – as will some of the football we saw on offer in the second half.

Hero of the match

Who will play instead of Jonny Rowe this week? Your turn, Gabe Forsyth. Much like Jonny Rowe this time last year, a name we didn’t expect to see but one that played like it was his 100th appearance. He nearly scored a 30 yard screamer, too. 

Summary in Five Words

Stop giving the ball away.