The ACN Match Review – Hull (h)

The atmosphere 

Despite the dismal rain on this most gloomy of opening days, the atmosphere was for the most part very good. 

The excitement of the first game of the season certainly helps, and my personal assessment of ‘what percentage of the Lower Barclay A Block are on their feet?’ was well towards the 80% for most of the match. 

The ebb and flow of the game certainly dictated the atmosphere, with a dip in quality midway through the second half reflected in the stands. A good benchmark to build on throughout the season nonetheless. 

The line-up 

A good mix of old and new faces, youth alongside experience, with pleasing signs of cohesion in the squad. The biggest concern is that our transition from defence to attack still seems laboured at times, with our counterattacks lacking the pace of our opponents. This has been the case for a while, so as the season progresses an injection of speed in this part of our game wouldn’t go amiss. 

Hurrah moment 

Not since the prime Farkeball era have we been treated to late goals of this magnificence. 

Should the corner have been a goal kick? Probably. Was Idah offside? Maybe. Do I care? Not especially. Perhaps if Hull’s keeper hadn’t been booked for timewasting, the whistle would have been blown before any of it even happened? 

Such is football, such is life (Although if I were a Hull fan, I’d be a bit annoyed. But I’m not a Hull fan, so I’m quite happy instead.) 

Boooo moment 

Despite our defensive shape looking more convincing than it had done in years, individual errors are still our undoing on an all-too regular basis. 

What should have been a relatively easy ball to clear became a real chore for our centre backs. A clean sheet was lost, and the lead gifted to Hull. Today we were able to overcome this early setback – but with the strength of the sides in this year’s division, these moments of carelessness could prove costly in the long run. 

Hero of the match 

Jonathan Rowe is a shining example of Norwich’s philosophy in action. The academy graduate has not only slotted into the first team seamlessly, but also possesses heaps of individual talent. Hopefully, his excellent goal (and narrow miss earlier in the match) today is a statement of intent. 

Our post-match takeaway 

On an emotional level, I enjoyed this game far more than I have enjoyed a game at Carrow Road for a long time. 

It was entertaining, with both teams locked in a proper battle. Yes, it helped that we won at the end, but I felt the same when it looked like we were set for a draw. 

After last season’s turgid routine, it would be amazing if this match marked the beginning of a potentially entertaining campaign. It’s the hope that kills you, but if we can’t dream now, then when can we?