The ACN match review – Millwall (a) | OneFootball

How did we play?

For anyone who read Paul’s review of the Portsmouth match, this performance had many of the same qualities. It’s blatantly apparent our season is over, and this seems to have sapped any tenacity from our performances, a pattern that has ultimately cost Thorup his position.

Millwall, admittedly, have something to play for. They were also deserving winners, not least through their clear desire to move the ball quickly and press into our defensive third.

What I found the most concerning with Norwich at present is the number of players who, based purely on their on-field display, do not give off the impression that they are all that bothered about playing for us. This may not be the case – Josh Sargent said as much in his post match interview – and ultimately only they know the answer, but the fact that this is being discussed at all speaks volumes. Quite how far the coaching set up impacted this state of affairs remains to be seen.

What was the best bit of the game?

Following Millwall’s second goal, a Norwich fan decided to run onto the pitch. His intentions were unclear. Perhaps he wanted to offer his own tactical advice to the players? Maybe he was trying to reach Thorup to re-enact some prime Gunn era throwing-your-season-ticket-at-the-manager?

In any case, he didn’t get far. Instead, he was apprehended by a veritable mountain of stewards, before being led away past the particularly vitriolic Millwall fans.

I am in no way condoning his actions. It’s not big and it’s not clever. In fact, it’s stupid and can be dangerous for yourself and others. That being said, the interruption meant that we got quite a bit of added time at the end of the first half, during which we scored our goal.

Other than that, from what I could discern, the bloke behind me won some points rewards on his Lidl Plus app, so good for him.

What was the worst bit of the match?

There’s quite a few moments I could pick, so I’ll go for something that I think gives some indication of the malaise and discontent around the club at present.

When Jacob Sørensen walked onto the pitch as a substitute for Wright, he was met with boos from some in the away end.

Whilst this seems to have been borne of frustration at Norwich’s broader situation (at least in part), I would argue that it’s not particularly helpful. Whatever you think of the tactical decisions, or a player’s abilities, I would imagine that such a reaction before said player had even begun playing is not likely to positively influence their performance.

What was the atmosphere like?

Whilst there were some attempts at song, these were snuffed out by Millwall’s goals. What took their place was an uneasy collection of tense silences, frustrated ranting, self depreciating chants, and boos.

A good portion of the people around me left before the full-time whistle (some well before). When said whistle came, the players were left in no doubt that those who remained were far from happy.

Hero of the match

I can only commend the effort Josh Sargent puts in, attempting to create chances with his runs, and clear frustration at how the season has ended.

He should also be praised for his honesty in the post-match press. Acknowledging that the current state of affairs cannot be allowed to continue is the first step towards change. However, it must be met with a tangible reaction on the pitch in the last couple of games to help ensure support for ‘the project’ next season, whoever takes the helm.

Summary in Five Words

Just two more matches left.