We are closer to the relegation zone than we are to the playoff positions. Sounds about right based on performances and tactics.
I think the players are pulled in two directions too much of the time. The emphasis is on possession, but that is mostly in our own half where any mistakes can create a scoring opportunity for the opposing team. When we lose the ball upfield, our players are two slow to get back to defend, thus we scored a lot of goals but also conceded a lot of goals. The second undermines the first.
Norwich manager Johannes Hoff Thorup speaking to BBC Radio Norfolk: "Based on the game, it is fair we didn't win it. There were many things defensively we didn't get right. "It comes down to preparation and being ready for what your opponent brings to a game and we didn't match that at all. "I had the feeling that every time they brought the ball forward it could be a chance or a goal against. "We have to look at that; it is definitely a weakness. It is simple situations we struggle to deal with. "I hate when you have to talk about desire in a football player but I think there was a difference in that today. Portsmouth had more at stake and was willing to throw their bodies in front of the ball. "I don't think we matched them and that was one of the messages at half time. It seemed like the simple things were difficult today. I think we need a new manager. If he can't motivate the players, or improve on his and their performance, time for the door.
