Teemu Pukki scored the only goal of the game to help Norwich produce one of the narrow football results of the weekend in the Championship. With his fourth goal in as many games, Pukki gave Dean Smith’s team a well-earned seventh victory in their previous eight. As a result, Norwich is still trailing leaders Sheffield United, while struggling Blackpool suffered their fourth consecutive defeat.
Following a cautious start, the hosts created the first opportunity after seven minutes. After some clever passing, Kenny Dougall touched the ball to Ian Poveda, but his well-hit 25-yard effort missed the far post by a foot. High-flying Norwich quickly learned that the Seasiders are a difficult opponent on their home field.
Theo Corbeanu was in the right place at the right time to block Charlie Patino’s effort, but the Canadian forward saw his first-time angled blast bang the outside of a post before falling back. In the 21st minute against the flow of play, the Canaries broke the scoreless tie. Then, when an unmarked Kenny McLean headed against a post, the woodwork saved Blackpool. Jordan Gabriel hurriedly blocked Josh Sargent’s frantic follow-up attempt on the line after Pukki forced Maxwell into another excellent low stop.
Managers Reaction
Blackpool head coach Michael Appleton: “It makes me really angry. I thought we played outstandingly for the opening 20 minutes and put an excellent Norwich team on the back foot. We had a few key opportunities, but we were unable to capitalize, and when Norwich did, it was a major setback.”
Norwich head coach Dean Smith: “It continues our winning streak, is another clean sheet and maintains our confidence and momentum. This season presents a significant challenge for us in the Championship, but I believe we are seeing individuals rise to the occasion and have a desire to participate.”
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