Norwich City have ended their lengthy home winless streak with a convincing 3-1 victory over Queens Park Rangers (QPR) at Carrow Road. This triumph, their first at home in over seven months, has injected fresh hope into the squad as they develop under manager Philippe Clement. Here’s a detailed assessment of the players' performances during this pivotal match.
**Vladan Kovacevic - 7**
The Serbian goalkeeper enjoyed a relatively quiet afternoon but demonstrated his shot-stopping prowess at crucial moments. Although he was caught off guard in the 11th minute by Rumarn Burrell's close-range finish following a low cross from Sam Field, Kovacevic's vigilance in the latter stages proved vital, making essential saves from Ilias Chair and Isaac Hayden.
**Jack Stacey - 6**
Stacey's contribution was curtailed by a suspected hamstring injury, but he made an impact in the attacking play before his exit. His combination with Josh Sargent nearly created a chance for Amankwah Forson, yet his early departure limited his overall influence on the game.
**Ruairi McConville - 7**
McConville delivered a commendable performance as he seeks to secure his place in the starting lineup. He played a key role in setting up the opener for Emi Marcondes with a well-timed header, although he was unfortunate to be involved in QPR's equaliser. His proactive runs and effective passing showcased his potential.
**Harry Darling - 6**
Darling has faced challenges in recent matches, yet he earned commendation from the home crowd for his effective tracking of Hayden towards the end. Norwich supporters will be eager for him to rediscover the form he displayed earlier in the season.
**Kellen Fisher - 7**
Fisher showed tenacity throughout the match, highlighted by a significant tackle on Amadou Mbengue. His late cross to the back post nearly resulted in a goal for Jacob Wright, and he tested QPR's goalkeeper with a low shot in the first half, indicating his active involvement in the attack.
**Pelle Mattsson - 8**
Arguably Mattsson's finest display in a Norwich shirt, he was aggressive in tackles and played a pivotal role in winning turnovers, significantly contributing to the build-up of goals. Although he had a moment of inaccuracy with a wayward shot, his overall performance was impressive.
**Kenny McLean - 8**
McLean was instrumental in Norwich's midfield, demonstrating both creativity and leadership. His corner deliveries directly contributed to two goals, including an unfortunate deflection that led to an own goal by Mbengue. His active involvement in attacking plays highlighted his ability to push forward effectively.
**Amankwah Forson - 7**
Taking advantage of Jovon Makama's absence due to illness, Forson made a notable impact by scoring a well-placed goal to secure the win. He displayed promising movement and a willingness to support offensive plays, although he did miss a couple of earlier chances.
**Emi Marcondes - 7**
Marcondes was a constant threat throughout the match, opening the scoring and demonstrating his intelligence with movement and awareness. His ability to link up effectively with teammates contributed significantly to Norwich's attacking fluidity.
**Oscar Schwartau - 7**
Schwartau thrived in Clement's tactical setup, exhibiting both pace and creativity. His involvement in the build-up to Forson's goal was crucial, although he was denied a potential goal by an offside call, which was a frustrating moment for the player.
**Josh Sargent - 7**
Sargent's work ethic was commendable, especially as he tracked back to halt a late QPR counterattack. While he had several opportunities to score, he was largely contained in the attacking third; nevertheless, his contributions to the team's pressing and defensive efforts were evident.
**Substitutes:**
**Shane Duffy (for McConville, 56) - 5**
Duffy's introduction came after Stacey's injury, but he had a limited impact on the game, although he assisted in a late chance for Errol Mundle-Smith.
**Errol Mundle-Smith (for Forson, 66) - 6**
Mundle-Smith showed glimpses of potential in attack, benefiting from Clement's trust, although he could not find the net.
**Jacob Wright (for Marcondes, 66) - 6**
Wright injected energy into the attack but was unable to convert a promising opportunity, with his shot saved by QPR's goalkeeper.
**Matej Jurasek (for Schwartau, 88) - 5**
Jurasek had limited time to influence the game but displayed determination in defensive situations.
**Mathias Kvistgaarden (for Sargent, 88) - 5**
Kvistgaarden had an immediate chance but was thwarted by a last-ditch tackle, illustrating the difficulties of entering the match at such a late stage.
The atmosphere at Carrow Road was electric as Norwich City celebrated this much-needed victory. Building on this performance, the Canaries will aim to gain further momentum in their pursuit of climbing the Championship table.