In their last regular-season match Norwich put an end to Newcastle's plans for an undefeated season. On Sunday, Norwich played the role of spoiler once again, this time dashing the hopes of Queen's Park. Park had rushed to the top of the Champions League after four matches with three wins and a draw. Their 17 goals scored was second in the league against only 6 goals given up.
The Norwich game plan was simple: defend like their lives depended on it and run like there's no tomorrow. Cy did both masterfully. Making use of his blazing speed and his smarts, Cy seemed always to be wherever the play was. He would support the play in our offensive zone and then be waiting to pick up the counterattack back in our defensive zone. And he never let up during the 60-minute match. Pure hustle, yes, but with brilliant tackling skills to finish the job.
Cy was supported by the now famous Norwhich brick wall defense of Zack S, Ted, Alex, and Max H. Nobody at any point in the match was able to beat Zack S one-on-one. He was quick to pressure any Queen's Park attack but patient and careful not to over-commit. Ted ran down everything that came into our half of the field. He never, ever gave up on the ball and was an absolute menace to Queen's Park forwards all afternoon. Alex was his usual reliable self, always goal side, patient, and sure footed. He did well to push the ball outside, out of the danger zone, wait for the attacker to make his move, and then come in for the tackle. Max H also pressed the ball outside, and refused to allow any Park striker a decent shot on goal. He was always in the right position and always two steps ahead of the Queen's Park attack.
Still, a team like Queen's Park is going to create chances. Fortunately, Norwich was able to answer with exceptional goalkeeping again this week. Zack G got the start in net and also closed out the game to protect a slim Norwich lead. He was a busy man in there, but he was solid, saving half a dozen shots on target at least. Zack would contribute to the attack as well, helping to initiate plenty of chances for Norwich on the other end of the field. Josh came in to relieve Zack about a third of the way into the match and continued to smother the fierce Queen's Park attack. Tom took over after Josh and his sure hands kept the game within reach for Norwich.
Queen's Park scored in the 21st minute to take an early lead but Norwich countered 5 minutes later when Tom put one in the bottom left corner on a penalty kick. At the half, the match was tied at 1 goal apiece.
The Norwich attack picked up some steam in the second half and gave their defense some room to breathe. The brilliant possession play of Max F kept the pressure on the Park defense--and just as importantly kept the pressure off the Norwich defense. Speedy and always on the run, Max shed every Queen's Park marker, and he was open all afternoon. His excellent passing ability and quick thinking kept the ball at Norwich feet in their offensive zone for much of the second half. Jake provided speed on the other side of the field and moved the ball well to set up several promising chances. He simply outran everybody on the field. Josh gave Norwich some offensive support as well, taking command of midfield and working the ball northward to Tom and Max.
Ultimately, the offensive effort would pay off. Given a free kick from well beyond the penalty area, Tom let it fly and somehow found the back of the net. A spectacular shot to give Norwich the lead for the first time in the match. Tom completed the hat trick and provided some insurance with a shot from the corner that found its way in behind the Queen's Park keeper. The match would end 3-1, Norwich.
Two victories in two consecutive regular season games against two previously undefeated powerhouse clubs. Norwich has certainly come a long way since week one.
We face another monumental challenge this Saturday against mighty Wolverhampton at Healy. See you there!
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