Norwich City managed to secure a hard-fought point in a tense 1-1 draw against Stoke City at the Bet365 Stadium, although the performance left much to be desired. Paddy Davitt’s player ratings reflect a mixed bag of effort and execution from the Canaries as they look to build on this result.
**Vladan Kovacevic - 7**
Kovacevic was pivotal in goal, producing several key saves, including a crucial parry from Million Manhoef just moments before Stoke equalised. He benefited from a fortunate ricochet that required Jakob Medic to clear off the line, but the volume of shots he faced highlighted the pressing need for stronger defensive support in front of him.
**Jack Stacey - 7**
Stacey's pace proved vital in Norwich’s goal, as he made a determined run to assist Jovon Makama. His defensive capabilities were also on display with a timely intervention that disrupted a Stoke counter-attack. However, he occasionally found himself outpaced, particularly as Manhoef became more influential late in the match.
**Harry Darling - 7**
Darling’s leadership stood out as he consistently engaged in tackles and interceptions. His anticipation helped him thwart Manhoef early in the contest, but a lapse in concentration ultimately led to Stoke’s equaliser. Despite this, his overall commitment to the team was commendable.
**Jakob Medic - 7**
Medic's defensive awareness was evident as he made a vital intervention to prevent a goal when Stoke threatened. Although his passing lacked the sharpness seen in previous matches, he still contributed defensively, making a key block that maintained the tie late in the game.
**Kellen Fisher - 7**
Fisher demonstrated resilience against Stoke’s attacking threats, using his physicality effectively. He earned a free kick through clever play, yet he occasionally needed support from teammates. His defensive work remained solid, although he exhibited frustration with some of Stoke’s antics in the box.
**Kenny McLean - 7**
Returning to the starting XI, McLean’s experience was crucial, especially in the second half as Stoke increased their pressure. He played a role in the build-up to the opening goal and made several important blocks, although he found himself cautioned by the referee for a risky tackle.
**Pelle Mattsson - 6**
Mattsson injected some energy into the attack with a decisive pass leading to the goal. However, he struggled to maintain influence throughout the match, particularly in defence as Stoke pressed forward in the latter stages.
**Jovon Makama - 7**
In his first league start, Makama made a notable impact by scoring the opening goal. His pace and movement caused problems for the Stoke defence, though he seemed to tire after a strong first half. His contributions were promising, and he remained active in linking up play.
**Liam Gibbs - 6**
Gibbs came close with a powerful shot that struck the crossbar, illustrating his potential. Nonetheless, he didn’t impact the game as much as he would have liked and will need to improve his consistency as the season unfolds.
**Oscar Schwartau - 6**
Schwartau’s energy was beneficial as he worked hard to regain possession and establish a midfield presence. However, he struggled to make a significant impact in the final third, with Stoke’s defence effectively stifling his efforts.
**Josh Sargent - 6**
Sargent made intelligent runs but had difficulty converting those into clear chances. He contributed defensively and linked well with Makama, but he will need to sharpen his finishing moving forward.
**Substitutes:**
**Ante Crnac (for Makama, 55) - 5**
Crnac displayed moments of quality, particularly with a well-timed pass to Sargent, but he failed to influence the game significantly after replacing Makama.
**Jeffrey Schlupp (for Schwartau, 68) - 5**
Schlupp provided a late free-kick to relieve pressure, yet his overall impact was minimal as the match progressed.
**Mirko Topic (for Gibbs, 89) - n/a**
Topic was introduced too late to have any meaningful effect.
In his post-match remarks, Pelle Mattsson did not shy away from discussing the team’s shortcomings, noting that their play in possession was "not good enough." He acknowledged their luck in avoiding a heavier defeat but emphasised the necessity for improvement, stating, “We have to take responsibility on the ball. I think too many times we give it too cheaply and too easily.” This honest assessment highlights the challenges ahead for Norwich City as they seek to improve their performances this season.