Tuesday, February 16, 2010

It's a miracle: City 1-1 West Brom

A miracle that is that we're still in 5th place.

This was a dire football match between the divisions two top scorers, who managed a grand total of 5 shots on target between them in 97 minutes of football.

City, ravaged by injury and struggling to find 11 fit players went ahead on 8 minutes through a Peter Whittingham penalty after Jay Bothroyd was hauled down inside the 6 yard box. How the Baggies No. 3 stayed on the pitch is beyond belief - how can a man in the 6 yard box not be in a clear goal scoring opportunity? He didn't even get booked.

After the goal, City retreated deeper and deeper and their passing and tackling became worse and worse. When they did get the ball they either kicked it away or gave it away far too easily. West Brom scored in the 3rd minute of added time in the first half. At that point I'd have bitten your hand off for a draw. Peter Whittingham had also worryingly gone off injured.

The second half was better - just, but both sides created little, and I can't think of any one City player who was worthy of a man of the match performance. Kennedy in particualr was awful (again) at left back, but he was only the worst of an average bunch tonight.

City did spark towards the end in a 5 minute spell when Chris Burke missed an open goal, but to be fair a draw was probably all each side was worth.

On this form, I can't see either side being good enough for promotion, let alone putting up a fight in the Premiership. Keep an eye on Derby who seem to be hitting their straps at the right time.

Next up for Cty, Barnsley on Saturday at home. City players all need a rest, but they aren't going to get it, so they'll have to make the best of what they have. At this moment, I'd accept sneaking into 6th spot come the end of the season.

Blooobirds!

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