Norwich Away Won 0 – 1 First Away Win of the Season
Stephens’ recall to face Portsmouth was a surprise, but Tonda’s selection at Norwich was even more unexpected, with Bree, Larin and Scienza all benched as in came Abbott (on debut), Dobbin (first start since August) and Edozie – the team had a sort of Carabao Cup feel to it. Abbott was found wanting in the opening minutes and again struggled as Schwartau cut inside and shot narrowly off target. Saints’ best opportunity in the opening quarter came with a free kick in Ward-Prowse territory but JW-P’s radar has been faulty since he left in 2024. Downes struggled to get to his feet after a challenge and although he refused treatment at the time, he was eventually forced to retire, being replaced by Jander. That actually did us no harm, but there were worries about the defensive formation that was a sort of back three-and-a-half, so we went more orthodox after the break with Bree on for Abbott, while Manning was also withdrawn for Welington. Scienza, of the three omitted senior players, was the only one not to play a part eventually and Edozie repaid the faith shown in him with a run past Stacey that led to the game’s only goal: Grimshaw saved from the cross but a poor clearance went to Jander and when Grimshaw saved again, brilliantly this time, Matsuki was on hand to deal with the loose ball. Norwich’s best chance across the 90 minutes came soon after when McConville had a free header from a corner and Córdoba’s touch looked decisive until Dobbin effected an awkward goal-line clearance very well. By the end we had both Larin and Mubama on to try to keep the ball upfield and Saints almost had a second when Jander, at full stretch, couldn’t get a controlled touch on Azaz’s cross. No matter as we’ve protected Peretz’s goal pretty well this week to gain maximum points from our two goals.
Become a Member
Become a member of London Saints from as little as £6.