I was not expecting a loss. Especially, the way Norwich lost against Preston. I thought we were secure on top. Never thought our reign on top would be so short-lived and could not even last a week. But, it is what it is and we will bounce back. I hope. It was the end of the longest unbeaten away game record (13 games) for Norwich in almost 100 years. The early goal, the no-penalty (I guess) and failing to convert chances despite having superior possession in the second half cost the game for the away side.

By the way, Preston were impressive.

Away games are always tough and Preston is a good championship side. Norwich lost the mid-week battle against Preston. Leeds United claimed back the reign from Norwich with a 2-1 win over Swansea City. Bristol City continued their unbeaten run mid-week as well when they beat QPR 2-1. The only good thing that happened for boys in Yellow in that match was a late goal from Teemu Pukki. He maintained his goalscoring form and that is crucial for the team going forward. Norwich should not be bogged down and start to think about the next game this Saturday against Bolton.

Preston took a lead scoring an early goal. Second minute into the game, Norwich conceded a free-kick right outside the box. The free-kick from Paul Gallagher was headed in by Ben Davies beating Tim Krul. Not a start Norwich was looking for.

Buendia, Hernandez, and Pukki have been the trio successfully launching the attack for Norwich this season. They have the strength and pace needed for the attack but even the trio could not help the team in this game. They have had their chances but Preston was defending very well and did not give any chance to the Finnish striker. Preston goalie was really impressive in the first half of the game.

It was Preston who scored the second goal of the game through a spot-kick. Paul Gallagher scored his first goal of the game although Krull managed to dive in the right direction and get a hand to the ball. The home side was aggressive and they were relentless in pursuing another goal against Norwich.

The game defining moment came in the half an hour mark when Norwich was awarded a penalty. Norwich were unlucky. Stiepermann could not convert the spot-kick squandering the golden chance Norwich was provided to reduce the gap. With the goal difference still 2-0, it was quite unlikely for the away side to come back in the game. The first half ended 2-0.

The second half was very positive for Norwich. They were very aggressive, holding the ball and attacking in the Preston half. The ball was almost always on the Preston side but Norwich just could not score a goal. Almost against the run of play, Preston managed the score their third goal of the game and sealed the victory. It was very unlikely for Norwich to win the game from that point. The “Pukki” fired one against Preston in the 93rd minute but it was too late for Norwich.

Preston City should be very happy with this win but Norwich threw their chance to remain on top. Preston are now on 43 points. They have not lost their Championship match after losing to Rotherham 1-0 in January 2019. They have been impressive lately. Preston goalie Declan Rudd was the man of the match.

Daniel Farke was disappointed but praised the player’s commitment and dedication.

“The lads gave everything and left their hearts on the pitch. We have to accept the result and move on to Saturday.” Daniel Farke

He was not happy with the penalty decision

“Their penalty was never a penalty. It was then hard to turn the game but we had so many chances. We risked so much in the second-half.” Daniel Farke

Elsewhere, Bristol City were impressive in beating QPR 2-1 coming from behind. The winning goal for Bristol was a penalty scored right at the end. They are now well in the playoff zone with 51 points and still an extra match in hand. Lampard’s Derby City had to accept a draw against struggling Ipswich town. Derby could not hold on to an early goal and conceded a goal in the second half. They are now sitting at number 7 behind Middlesbrough. Sheffield United won the game against Middlesbrough by 1-0 to retain the third spot. They are just two points behind Norwich.

Norwich will travel to Bolton for an away game this Saturday. They should regroup and secure a win to keep the premier league hope alive. I just don’t want this momentum to go away for Norwich. Leeds are a very good side and can take the cup away from other teams.