Norwich City: 5 Observations from Newcastle Win
Norwich City produced a fantastic display to defeat Newcastle, 4-2. There was certainly plenty to be positive about from this game for the Canaries. It was good to see Steve Morison, Grant Holt and Wes Hoolahan all getting on the score-sheet.
I have identified five things from the game and with them in mind, I created this slideshow.
Steve Morison and Grant Holt Worked Well as a Strike Partnership from the Start
1 of 5There has been much debate this season on using Grant Holt and Steve Morison simultaneously. It has generally worked well with Morison starting the game and Holt making an impact from the bench.
However, they both started together on Saturday and it was a treat. The makeshift Newcastle defence weren't able to cope with the strength and aerial presence of the strike duo. Steve Morison was very isolated in the Man City game and he reveled with the support from Holt.
It remains to be seen if this will be a regular partnership, but the potential is certainly there.
As a side note, both strikers have now scored six Premier League goals. This return will likely mean that Lambert will look at the partnership closely over the next few games.
Norwich City Cannot Rely on Getting Decisions from Referees
2 of 5Only Martin Atkinson will know why the Canaries weren't given a penalty when Kyle Naughton's cross was clearly and blatantly handled by Davide Santon.
However, poor refereeing decisions are nothing new to the home crowd. In the end, the decision proved not to be crucial due to the brilliance of Holt and Morison.
Defending Still an Issue
3 of 5Zak Whitbread came back into the Norwich City back line for the game against Newcastle. However, it was a case of different player, but same problems. Whitbread put on a generally composed display, but let himself down in the second half by giving away possession, leading to Demba Ba's second goal.
Norwich City fans must be wondering if the team will keep a clean sheet all season. Whitbread will have to cut out errors if he wants to stay in the team.
The Importance of Set Piece Delivery
4 of 5It was pleasing to see David Fox back in the Norwich City team for his calm passing in midfield and his delivery from dead-ball situations. Lambert chose to play without natural width, so set pieces were always likely to be important.
Fox's teammates are catching on and a beautiful short corner routine that led to a Norwich City headed goal was pleasing to see.
The Canaries may find that in tight games, grabbing goals from set pieces can be vital in turning the game their way.
Lambert's Tactics Were Spot on
5 of 5The decision to play neither Anthony Pilkington or Elliott Bennett was a brave one, as was the decision to play Grant Holt and Steve Morison together.
However, the plan worked perfectly and Holt and Morison bullied the Newcastle defence.
Lambert has proved yet again that he is a tactical genius and knows exactly what he is doing. It will be interesting to see how the team sets up next week, but we can all be assured there is a plan behind it.
