After a stuttering start to the season, including five defeats in the last seven games, there are not too many positives to cling onto at the moment.
But, according to Manchester City boss Sven Goran Eriksson, if the Canaries continue from where they left off last night then they will soon be climbing the Championship table.
A last gasp Georgios Samaras goal meant the Norfolk club were out of the Carling Cup for yet another year but their performance was one to build on. It was light years away from the no-show at Wolves last Saturday that's for sure.
It's whether Peter Grant's men can use it as a platform as we go into what could be a crucial four-day period in the Canaries' season which will be so important.
Secure back-to-back wins against Sheffield Wednesday in front of the Sky cameras on Saturday and again at Carrow Road when they host Scunthorpe three days later and the performance last night will be seen as a turning point.
However, this Norwich side are renowned for taking one step forward, only to be followed by taking another two back and they must not make the same mistake this time.
But the spirit in the camp must be higher than after the Molineux debacle and if you are to receive a compliment, then one from the former Benfica, Lazio and England manager is not a bad start.
“I think Norwich played well,” said Eriksson in the post match press conference.
“They kept the ball and they made life difficult for us because they had three central midfielders, so they could keep the ball.
And the Swede ? now enjoying hero status with the Eastlands faithful after a torrid time as Three Lions chief ? was left scratching his head as to why the Canaries were languishing in the lower reaches of the Championship table.
“They created chances ? they look like a good team,” added Eriksson.
“I know that their situation in the table is not that good but when you see them here I'm surprised that they are not higher up. But the season is long. I think they played well.”
Eriksson, like Grant, fielded a much changed side ? although his was more out of choice, compared to Grant whose squad was riddled with injuries and suspensions.
But the former England boss didn't have any regrets, although he may have expected a slightly more comfortable evening than he got.
“I'm pleased that we are through. I'm pleased that we finally scored a goal. I can't say that we played excellent football because I would be a liar.
“However it was the first time this eleven had played together, it's a clean sheet and we are through even if we can play a little bit better.
“Norwich fought, they had no pressure so could go out and express themselves, which they did.
“But even after 85 minutes I didn't regret that we made so many changes because I think in a match like this we have to look at what we have, not only 11, 12, 13 players which we normally use.
“You have to look at some of the young players we have and it's a real test for them. Many of those who played tonight played in the previous round at Bristol City and it's good to see that they can handle it against good opposition.”
As for the enforced changes in the Canary line-up, it may have been a blessing in disguise – the team seemed to play like a weight had been lifted off their shoulders.
Whether that was the nature of the match ? a Cup game against Premier League opposition ? or the personnel brought in to the side, who knows?
But youngsters Rossi Jarvis and Michael Spillane displayed the wonderful innocence of youth and as a result, Norwich looked a much more capable outfit.
They looked to pass the ball, their pitch coverage was excellent and the two City youth products were not afraid to try something new in an attempt to get the Canaries motoring.
Whether that would apply in the tense atmosphere of a Carrow Road clash only time will tell but the intriguing question will be whether Grant decides to stick with his young guns, or opt to bring back the likes of Julien Brellier after his suspension.
It would certainly be harsh on Messrs Jarvis and Spillane, but with three, vital points at stake, it's a tough one to call.
Watch this space?
Tom Haylett
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