Let’s make the simple difficult. Let’s absolutely outclass a side for 44 minutes and then see Tim Krul do what he occasionally does, e.g. get closed down by a forward such as Fraizer Campbell and shank it to the edge of the box. One astute pass later and Marc Pugh hammers it home off the post.
Whatever your half-time preference might be, the enjoyment of your tea, coffee or beer was ruined by that moment. The atmosphere went from virtual euphoria to “Oh $hit”. We knew we’d have a battle on our hands in the second 45, and so it proved.
We’d had Marco Stiepermann impersonating Billy Elliott before slotting past David Marshall, quickly followed by Emi Buendia’s sharp reaction after good work from Onel Hernandez.
At times we were slick and verging on unplayable.
After the half time of anguish – at least in the Upper Barclay bar – an edgy first few minutes in the second half saw Hull finding their sea-legs. Up until a goal was scored that despite a lifetime of journalism I struggle to accurately describe.
I’m obviously on about that acrobatic flick from Buendia inside to Timmu Pukki, who appeared to tread on the ball but somehow got it out from under his own feet to lay it off. Emi nutmegs Marshall and it’s 3-1.
The natural order was restored.
And then, in about the 87th minute, the grey goose of Beccles gets in between Zimbo and Ben to head home from which was admittedly an excellent cross.
Cue the Daniel Farke tactic of the moment as in run the clock down, put on three very late subs and try to take the wind out of the Tigers’ sails. It worked, yet again. Just.
Farke said after the match that it should have been 7-1 and I do not disagree with him. We were vastly superior to Hull City, we really were.
There are now nine games to go and we need to win five of them. Can we do it? Yes of course we can.
In defence of Krul he is obviously told to play that way by Farke. It reminds me of the old phrase sweeper-keeper but only old ‘uns like me will remember the true meaning of it.
As for a few people on social media who want Krul dropped for Michael McGovern, I would simply say: no.
Do a job on Rotherham and get to 78 points before the international break and we’ll surely be fine.
It’s going to happen. I really believe it.
And as for the much-telegraphed but so secret announcement on Wednesday about Farke and team extending their contracts: what more could we want?
We’re literally into the final countdown.
Let’s continue as we are by making the difficult simple.
OTBC.
Well Mr P, as Gary said in his piece yesterday, another ‘nervy one’, which this time was pretty much self-inflicted. What an inspired signing Buendia is turning out to be and all for the equivalent of 3 weeks wages for a certain Man Utd player!!!!
I’m certain that Krul will have learnt from his errors of the last 2 games and I’m sure that opposition managers/players will be putting him under increased pressure over the remaining 9 games.
How we failed to score more in the first half on Wednesday, goodness only knows and that was another game settled by yet another little piece of Argentinian magic. WOW!!!!
I see we’re playing in front of the Sky cameras for the next few games after our trip to South Yorkshire and we’re certainly giving them and the viewing public value for money.
Roll on Saturday and then a lot of the squad can have a ‘breather’ before the final push for the ‘Finnish’ line.
PS – LOVED your choice of music – one of my favourites from that era!!. Perhaps we should contact the ‘DJ’ at CR and get him the team to come out to it for the last few games
Hi Ed
Back in the 1990s that track was the one our players walked out to for at least two seasons and the official video that Gary G selected (which I’d never previously seen) sums up the current situation perfectly.
I’d be tempted to make a couple of changes for Rotherham myself if there is even any hint of a niggle. From what I know of Daniel Farke I doubt he will change for change’s sake but Leitner in for McLean seems the obvious one to me.
And something tells me Klose and Hanley still have a part to play before season’s end.
Thanks as always.
Marty ole pal I’m afraid I talked up Hull’s first goal. With about 5mins of the first half remaining I turn to my neighbour and said ‘if we make it to half time without conceding a silly goal we’re in for a goal feast in the second half’. That goal gave Hull hope and changed the game’s dynamics, the defensive slip up towards the end giving Hull their second goal was no surprise, it’s getting to be regular feature. Fortunately we can still out score most teams in this division, the Prem will be a different kettle of fish. But we can enjoy the journey this season and next season will have to take care of it’s self. OTBC.
Hiya Cutty
I’m not blaming you any more than anybody in the Barclay gave Krul stick. We didn’t. Trouble is you can’t really hear what’s going on in the River End from my perch.
But Gary G’s frustrations of yesterday are very understandable and I’m simply glad I wasn’t able to hear “what went on”.
Sure us in the Barclay were equally frustrated but we kept it amongst ourselves and there was no need to pile it on Krul, especially as he was defending that end in the second half.
Sometimes I despair of some of our “supporters”, I really do.
Cheers mate.
A quicker read Mr P. I have watched and watched that Flick, and still can put words to it Only Sublime, & Magical. Had that been in the premiership Jug Lugs Lin-acher would be in the loo with tissue paper.
As to Tim Krul, yep a mistake, another that was magnified being the keeper, there was still defenders to stop that ball being rifled on target. I still mantain he has saved us more points than he has lost. We are in this position not because of Teemu or Emi but every member of the team/squad. It pains me to say I sat top of upper block E, and some around me were saying some of the most stupidest things about Krul , I am sure have eber been said. Webber said he wanted to let fly at people around him, I can only concure how he felt.
Yep it was a fight, harder work was made than what shuld have been, but let’s not forget there were 11 men trying to stop us, by fair or foul means (the two footed lunge on Tommy, and then the crafty trip on the same ankle) Campbell did eff all game except moan, shout and swear at the Linesman. We can and should not expect to have it all our own way, these guys give their all mistakes will happen, as Zimmerman/Godfrey displayed. Even Teemu had a poor night, McClean took a while to get his passing going. It is not all about the Krul balls up, Marshall did not cover himself in glory for Hull either he was nutmegged by Emi for his second, but did pull off a ruddy good save to deny Emi another Swansea type drive.
Support is needed in times like this. not moaning like hell or sarcastic shouting, had he had to pull off a couple of saves like in other games what the hell would people have said then ? Are we Supporters or aren’t we. ?
We stand on the theshold of something really big, we have played some of the best football seen ever at Carrow Road and on the Road, Manchester City are the only team in the Country to have scored more than us . but good old Norfolk folk still moan .. hell I am Norfolk born & Bred, but what I saw and heard . left me seething, thats not the ruddy airfield either. Rant over
Stiepermann’s goal was something a little special too, sadly at the far end to fully appreciate the live effts he made to jink through, but like the flick I have watched it many times superb. I had forgot about Chris Martin being on the Hull side, seemingly so had our two central defenders .
Butt cheeks clenched yet again, football the opposition could not live with, mistakes, missed chances, awesome technical ability, mixed with passion, joy, frustration elation, and a little fun (poor old linesman) It is what I pay my money for, it is top class football, get over the mistake and cast your eyes on what this amazing team have done. It wasn’t that long ago we suffered the Hughton time.
Hi Lad.
I’m normally very expansive with my replies but in this case I’ll just say: a fine speech.
Sitting in D block (no Knox Road references please) we collectively concluded that ALL keepers make mistakes, moaned like hell between ourselves at half time but kept our thoughts in-house if you see what I mean.
It has been exceptional this season and I have no time for eejits who want to talk us down.
Thanks very much as usual.
I guess the link was to the song by Europe-I didn’t click it as it’s such a terrible song and I didn’t want to get my Friday off to a bad start.
Someone wrote yesterday that those criticising Krul are watching the games but not seeing them-that sums it up brilliantly for me. I think Krul is up there among the best signings we’ve made. Every team that plays out from the back will give the odd goal away when forwards press but it’s definitely a price worth paying when the tactic results in the kind of brilliance we’ve been privileged to watch this season. Anyone who thinks McGovern is better needs to have a serious word with themselves.
The time after Martin scored was just horrible but we won, it doesn’t matter how. Everything is in our control and, after the Yorkshire giants of world football meet tomorrow lunchtime, we will have an even clearer picture of where we stand.
Hi Don
As I said to Lad above, a fine speech.
Yes Zimbo and Ben lost the man who doesn’t drink so he could pull it back to 3-2.
But we have to consider how far we’ve come and like you so rightly say a win is a win.
Thank you.
Super stuff Martin, agree with every word.
Ray Clemence was the original sweeper keeper. Often racing way out of his box to hammer a through ball up the pitch before a striker could get to it. In those days, a back pass would simply be picked up.
The impending half time interval sends a shiver down my spine as we so often seem to switch off and gift a sloppy concession. I for one would much prefer to see the ball hammered to the far corner flag and the opposition pegged in to herald the whistle. There’s a time and a place for football and two nil up, 45 minutes down, on the edge of your own box isn’t it.
McGovern, a decent enoug shot stopper and seemingly a decent back up, from memory, doesn’t possess better footwork than Krul. Krul it is. Just put your big Dutch foot through the bugger when it’s needed, there’s a good chap.
I love stiepermann, physically he reminds me of Keogh, the Derby centre half, that’s where the similarity ends. The run and shot for the opener were absolutely sublime. He has become irreplaceable.
Buendia is developing into a top class performer, adding goals to his assists. The flick was magnificent, the close range finishes were brilliant, his work rate is something else, his vision top drawer, he has pace, two great feet and the temperament to take his weekly kicking, pick himself up, if he’s still able, and hurt the opposition in the best manner. Adkins should hold his noise when complaining about phantom penalties and thank the referee for not sending off the thuggish right back, who should have walked in the first half.
Pukki appears off his game at the moment, which in my opinion is when he is at his most dangerous. Every game without a goal brings his next goal closer, he will play his way through his little slump.
Martin, you allude to the timing of the substitutes. I cannot fathom why Farke continues to leave it so late to introduce fresh legs to the fray. We were clearly flagging entering the last twenty minutes. With the strength of our bench, surely the best bench in the league, it must be an advantage to introduce players when they can influence the game?
With that in mind, the make up of Farkes selection tomorrow is of great interest. I am sure he will stick not twist, as it appears his favourite M.O. He has earned the right to trust in respect of his decision, and in any case I would back any eleven he puts out to the hilt. However, given the drop off in form of some individuals, thought must surely be given to the restoration of some of our best players, the best, it has to be said of a pretty good bunch, given the enormity of the situation. It must be time to flex our muscles and use our greatest strengths.
Good luck to whichever eleven we field tomorrow, please win for us.
Hi Chris.
I’m simply having to make it a triple echo. Yet another fantastic comment and I agree with every word of it, particularly your words about Pukki, Buendia and McGovern.
.
Ray Clemence is a great example of a sweeper keeper – how many England caps would he have gained without the presence of Peter (does your missus know you’re here) Shilton.
Thanks a lot.
Very good, Martin.
I’m a fan of Tim Krul, whose influence both on and off the field has been a significant factor in our success. However, he was at fault for the first Hull goal – an error less forgivable because of the warnings against Swansea. Let’s not deny he made a mistake, but put it in perspective and give him the 100% backing he deserves.
Wednesday didn’t make the choice for POTS any easier. Pukki missed a couple of chances but worked as hard as ever. Stiepermann was imperious; Zimmermann, aside from one moment, impeccable. Needless to say these days, Max Aarons was outstanding. And Emi…..
The idea of a team award is growing on me. I’d love to know what the players would think.
The whole SQUAD should be given the Barry Butler trophy. No ifs or buts.
If the club did this it would chime beautifully with the whole 2018-19 experience.
Let’s have a fans vote on the notion.
Thanks Nick.
I agree with you totally.
As for “fans’ votes” I think we’ve got enough problems with that concept in the UK already!
I have to say Stew that I think your thought of a team award is spot on.
Sure there are a few stand-outs as in Emi, Max and Teemu. But when you consider the rest of our squad plus the influence of DF and SW it’s a very sensible suggestion.
I doubt Barry Butler would object. In fact I’m pretty certain he wouldn’t.
For me it’s Zimbo but what a travesty that would be for the collective rest of them.
I love your idea, I really do.
Pukki looks a little tired to me. I was certain he would bag 30 goals…he may yet need to. The constant attention upon Pukki leaves opportunity for others…I read somewhere that Chris Martin “outpaced” our defence. Too funny! Martin was never worryingly pacy. I am noticing the “rejected” or ex-Norwich goalkeeper syndrome, all are playing especially well when we cross paths…and Krull is certainly not a standout in comparison.
5 wins now you reckon? Normally that would indeed suffice, but i think more likely 7. Come on you Yellows!
Hi Cobwatch
Yes I do think five more wins will be enough for us.
As for Chris Martin, a 28 bus into the City from Taverham would be quicker than he ever was.
When a lifestyle choice comes along you have to make the right decision.
I’ll leave it there as I’m hardly a saint myself.
Thank you.
Hi Martin
Being of the age that remembers K K in goal, it could be misty eyed memories or just my age but what a shot stopper but his kicking and throwing were always questionably risky at best 50% would go to the opposition the groans that went around the ground at times were deafening but he could pick the ball up how would he fare with the rules of today, still would have a young K K in city goal.
With the way Hull played on Wednesday pressing the city defence it was obvious the ball would go back to Krul so Campbell was ready at all times to put him under pressure we will possibly see Rotherham try a similar tactic on Saturday so this will be a very tough game especially as they are having a bit of form and Sky said just now city are the side everyone wants to beat.
It was sad on Wednesday when the MOTM award is given to Godfrey to pass on to Emi surely he could gave come on camera and Godfrey reaction was great when he replied who has won it.
Spurs got a bad draw in the quarter finals v Manchester then possible semi v Ajax or Juv
Hi Alex
I concur with all of that.
The pressure on Krul will be intensified because if you are an opposition manager and haven’t identified him as an NCFC weakness you shouldn’t be in management.
Agree with you about both Spurs and KK.
Thank you
Good stuff Martin.
And to all those Krul moaners, what a pity you weren’t at the Canaries Trust AGM last night.
Stuart Webber (what a nice, “normal” guy to have in such a position) was impassioned – quite correctly in my mind – in Krul’s defence. Krul has brought so much more to this squad than just his goalkeeping. We tend to easily forget that we have one of the youngest and least experienced Championship back fours, and I’m sure he organises them.
Wednesday was a bit strange – we could/should have been 4 or 5 up by half time with a further goal fest to follow. OK, then there was THE error which we followed up early in the second half with what should be the goal of the season in the Championship. Just imagine how much we would see such a build up and flick on on TV if it had been perpetrated by Messi or Ronaldo. We can all count ourselves very lucky to have seen it live as it was just another highlight in a season littered with them.
On to Rotherham where any sort of victory will do.
As for tomorrow’s other game, a Leeds win or a draw will do very nicely thank you.
O T B C
Hi John
First up I agree with you about your Tim Krul remarks. Well said.
I too am a member of the Canaries Trust, which is an admirable organisation. But I avoid formal meetings like the veritable plague so that’s why I wasn’t there. And never will be.
Finally, yeah I want Leeds to win too. Ain’t life strange!
Thanks very much.
Nice piece Martin.
An unfortunately late meeting and a quirk of daylight savings being out of sync with the UK, meant I missed the game. I have seen our delightful goals however.
This morning a Pinkun headline suggests Webber is saying Krul was our best signing. I don’t think he’s been as great as some have said, nor as bad as others suggest. He was a necessary signing, but our goals against is the only tiny blot on an otherwise fantastic record this season.
Martin – Given Webber’s declaration, do you think that if promoted Krul will be starting for us next season?
Hi David
No I do not think Tim Krul should be first choice if we went up – or when we go up as I’d rather considerate it – ha!.
But McGovern will be gone and I think I’ve only seen Oxborough play once in my life so I don’t feel fit to judge him and I’m not going to.
Declan Rudd, Jed Steer, Fraser Forster, Angus Gunn.
Makes you think!
It’s certainly an area for reinforcement, whatever division we are in.
Thank you.
I think Gunn will be Southampton no1 next season.
Steer is proving himself at Villa and Rudd is no1 at Preston.
Forster has gone down hill faster than chedder Cheese can.
Maybe try for Spurs Arggy or look to Germany but it depends on how much is available.
Back from my sojourn in the Far East just in time for a (possibly) momentus week for City, Saw some of the best football this season in the first half on Wednesday, and even though Hull gained a bit of impetus when they made it 2-1, we still played some very good stuff in the second half. Just knew Chris Martin would get a goal!
The early game tomorrow is to our advantage, whichever way it goes, though my preference is for a draw, with a Dirty Leeds win second choice. We mustn’t let young Mr Warnes upset our apple cart at the New York Stadium! They gave us a tough game at the Carra, so it won’t be easy.
I just hope that with call-ups to the England U20 and U19 squads, for Godfrey and Aarons, and Maclean off to Scotland, Lewis to Northern Ireland, and Pukki off to join the Finns, they all come back injury free.
Onwards and upwards! OTBC
Hi Jim
Glad you got back okay and I hope you enjoyed your sojourn in that region of Asia.
International call-ups are the original double-edged sword. They do so much for player confidence but it has to be balanced against the risk of injury.
I’m very pleased for Godfrey and Aarons though – they so deserve it.
Timmu and Jamal will be well looked after – they had bl00dy well better be!
Thank you.
Good stuff Martin
Weirdly I’ve developed an unhealthy interest in at least 10 of our team plus the Manager and won’t have a single word said against them, Marco’s quick -step followed by Emi’s flick has almost sent me over the edge.
The pressure is obviously all too great, so with Beta blockers in hand and seeing as I won’t go near Sir Geoffrey Boycott country and can’t afford rehab at The Priory, I’m now playing golf tomorrow afternoon and then turning my attentions to Twickenham. No Jeff Stelling, wifi, phone or radio for 4/5 hours after which I will resort to the squinting eye option of finding out the scores after a few Edna Everidge’s at the 19th around tea-time.
Oh for mid-table mediocrity………….only half joking!
For all those making the trip, good on you, you’re all better fans than me, safe journey.
Blimey Colin – where do I start?
Golf is apparently very therapeutic for those who can pick the right club in the correct situation and use it to good effect. Give me a football, cricket bat, tennis racquet or indeed a table tennis bat and I’m sound.
I shamed Mrs P into learning the art of table tennis by playing against her whilst using a frying pan. True. She eventually ran me all around the table – I was so proud.
Some coach me!
I never really rated Boycott too much – a bit like Mike Brearley (similar but different – they both bored me to death as batsmen).
Thank you.