How about that - Norwich take derby honours over Ipswich

How about that then Canaries fans?

The atmosphere may have been a little flat at times but it doesn’t matter. Norwich were by far and away the better, harder working and, for me, technically better side for the majority of the match.

Everyone contributed. Elliott Omozusi was outstanding at the back, Sammy Clingan was everywhere in the best Gary Holt tradition and David Marshall made two brilliant saves when called into action.

I must confess to being on my feet when Lee Croft hit City’s opener – not the done thing when you are sitting in the press box.

But the goal was an absolute peach – not just the winger’s strike, but the build-up from Wes Hoolahan, who was also excellent, and the free scoring Matty Pattison was sublime too.

And we all agreed Leroy Lita should be credited with the assist for Pattison’s goal and Norwich's second. I know, it was David Bell’s free-kick. But the striker made sure referee Lee Probert got something right during the match – namely usher a bloodied Gareth McAuley off the pitch – and that proved to be enough for Norwich to put the game beyond doubt.

It struck me as a little harsh that the Ipswich fans were giving such a hard time to Jim Magilton after the game and to his players as they warmed down.

In past years, such a result would then see Town push on for promotion and City struggle to match the dizzy heights of such a confident 2-0 win. Let’s hope that is not the case this time round.

Job done. Happy days. And a classic snooker final at Potters still awaits. I'll be back...

posted on 07 December 2008 17:05 byMichael Bailey - Sportsdesk

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