Andy Munro finds consolation in Blues’ defeat to Blackburn.
Lee Bowyer thought Blues deserved something out of the game, but I beg to differ despite a spirited last twenty minutes. For most of the game we were outbattled by a hungrier Blackburn side who closed us down and hunted in packs whilst we looked comparatively lacklustre and casual.
To add to this some of our loan players looked like they were already back with their parent clubs, notably a disappointing and lightweight Tahith Chong whilst Onel Hernandez and Martin Taylor also didn’t look their normal impressive selves.
Kristian Pedersen scored a consolation goal, which he owed us to make up for some lacklustre play and our tendency to back off had earlier caused the Blackburn double, although admittedly they were excellent strikes.
So what are the reasons to be cheerful? Firstly, the day’s results meant that even without the massive points deductions of clubs below us, we would have (just) stayed up anyway. Secondly the excellent showing of the youngsters when they came on with Jobe Bellingham at one time dummying the whole of the opposition defence. Thirdly and most importantly a UK-based takeover looks on the cards. Apparently Craig Gardner has played a not insignificant role in that and for that reason alone I hope that Bowyer is given a chance next season with Craig alongside him.