Paddy Davitt: Norwich City player ratings after a 1-0 Championship win against Birmingham City
Norwich City's Mario Vrancic sealed a hard-fought win against Birmingham Picture: Joe Giddens/PA Wire - Credit: PA
Group Football Editor Paddy Davitt has posted his marks following the Canaries’ 1-0 Championship victory against a stubborn Birmingham City.
Here is Paddy’s verdict on Daniel Farke’s men, who eventually smashed a hole in the blue wall with Mario Vrancic’s late, late winner.
• Tim Krul
One timely stop from Jeremie Bela in the second half but spent more time with the ball at his feet. He will hope that is the first of many clean sheets at home. 7
• Max Aarons
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Less of the marauding attacking presence we have seen this season. Notably at Rotherham. But still a threat and quality stamped through his work. 7
• Grant Hanley
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Did a proper number on Scott Hogan. One hesitant early moment in possession but absolutely dominant aerially. 7
• Ben Gibson
Continues to impress with his leadership and organisational skills. Calm in possession when invited to step into midfield. 7
• Xavi Quintilla
Teased a fine ball into Todd Cantwell who sidefooted a chance wide. But defensively needs to stop more of the crosses coming in down his flank. 6
• Oliver Skipp
Guilty perhaps of trying to force a pass or two at the wrong times with Norwich so dominant in possession. 6
• Lukas Rupp
Vying with Cantwell for top billing. Driving force from central midfield and won the turnover that led to the winner. 8
• Emi Buendia
Some good, some bad. Typical Buendia. Cheap concessions did not prove costly but played the pass for Adam Idah that was eventually slotted by Mario Vrancic. Very good in the opening quarter with his full repertoire of passing on show. Slipped off those levels thereafter. 7
• Teemu Pukki
Deployed in a new look role as chief support to Jordan Hugill. Could be an inspired move if they get a longer audition together. Still lacked conviction when he got himself in shooting positions. Departed late on with what his head coach felt was a bout of cramp. 6
• Todd Cantwell
Froot foot, mature display. Only lacking a goal, and that was not for the want of trying. Possibly should square to Teemu Pukki in the first half. Work rate, endeavour and quality. This has to be the standard from here. 8
• Jordan Hugill
Screwed a couple of chances wide in each half. Good battle with Birmingham’s towering defensive three. 6
City substitutes
• Adam Idah (for Hugill, 67) 6
Telling burst that saw him cut inside but Vrancic swept home before he had a chance to pull the trigger.
• Mario Vrancic (for Skipp, 80) n/a
• Przemyslaw Placheta (for Pukki, 85) n/a
