So overall we lost but didn't lose ground on a few teams above us...about what I hoped for realistically.
I'd say that's sound thinking. Everybody (apart from us Norwich fans) seems to have assumed that losing Paul Lambert would prove a mortal blow. But after 15 games we are exactly where we were at this stage last season (on 19 points). Chris Hughton has quietly gone about transforming the side into a far more canny and defensively sound unit, much better equipped to become established in the PL. And the belief gained through success under Paul Lambert survives intact, despite having to adapt to a new manager, new style of play and a number of new players. Long way to go yet of course, but I don't think you should be looking for us to be in the relegation mix come April. In fact, guessing who will be in the relegation mix when the crunch comes is not a useful exercise IMO. Only thing that matters is Saints steadily picking up points. You have 12, with 23 games to go. A point a game from now on would see you very close to safety. If you can just get a couple of back to back wins you'll be well on the way.
I would like Hughton to replace Allardyce when he eventually leaves. He is becoming a top, top manager.
I don't think Norwich will go down, they may have overperformed last year but they've bought some good players over the summer. Reading will go down, probably QPR and I wouldn't rule out Sunderland being the third.
Yeah Reading are gone. Probably any 2 of about 8 for the other 2 spaces. Wigan and Sunderland for me.
I wonder how Wigan fans feel about tomorrow. Do they go into that very hopeful of getting something from St James', or do they just treat it as if anything other than a defeat would be a bonus? From our perspective, that's another game where I'd ideally rather not have a draw in. The only problem is that I can't decide which of the two I would rather remained just two points ahead of us, and because of that I think I do, unfortunately, have to hope it's a draw.
I just can't see Newcastle going down though. They are in danger without doubt but I think they will get out of it. I think Wigans luck may run out this season. Therefore a Newcastle win would be best for you IMO.
Newcastle have a lot of injuries and will be done with the Europey soon. Wigan could definitely be ok, but I would rather they were in the relegation fight.
Newcastle v Wigan. Suppose a draw would be best, but, if anyone has to win, I think a Newastle win would be best. Wigan have a poor GD, so a loss would put them level with us on GD or worse. These things can be critical at the end of the season. Probably too early to know which results will be good for us. I think Sunderland, QPR and Reading will be relegated. I said Norwich on a previous thread, but that is because I often muddle the two teams up in my mind .
