The derby match against Scunthorpe was, in truth, a comfortable victory. The Tigers 2-1 winning margin flattered the Iron. City's first half performance, and notably that of Ben Burgess, was excellent with some shrewd football being played. Scunthorpe started brightly enough but soon faded and once Burgess had chipped the hapless Evans for the first goal there was only going to be one winner. Burgess really did torment the Scunthorpe defence all afternoon. The fact that he is now playing more simply really has seen him emerge as a real prospect. This improvement has to go down to good coaching. At the beginning of the season Burgess at times infuriated the crowd as he lost possession far too easily or he tried to lay a ball off that did not come off and in fact did not need playing. After watching 3rd Division for more years than is good for me I do know that you do not have to be too clever when trying to unlock opponents defences. Simplicity is the key. This is now something Burgess has certainly incorporated into his game.
But the victory over Scunthorpe was not down to one man. Jon Walters had a very good game. His movement was excellent and he really is lightening quick. The goals will surely come. Walters really is reminiscent of Andy Payton and if he turns out to be half the player then we will all enjoy watching him for a few years to come.
The midfield has a more solid look with Lewis partnering Ashbee. Whilst Lewis did not have the best of games he will get better. Stuart Green will feel unlucky to be left out but with Elliott and Price virtually making a front four, City do need two defensive central midfielders. The back four was solid with Joseph and Delaney again imperious. Myhill was as probably as surprised as we were when a Scunthorpe shot called him into action, and he did look a little slow to react, which allowed Scunthorpe to pull one back. Concentration is half the game for goalkeepers and Myhill will learn from that. Otherwise, he to has been in fine form.
The game against Orient on Tuesday night was as comfortable as we could have wished for. Again Burgess caught the eye along with Price and Ashbee. City created chance after chance. The worrying aspect would be that we only scored three times. However, each of the goals from Elliott, Burgess and France were well worked. The positive is that we continued to make chances all night long. Orient for their part created nothing.
So there we have it. 36 games played and 69 points on the board. 10 games to go starting against Rochdale at the KC a week on Saturday. This weekend we can relax and watch with interest how our rivals get on. By 5:00pm on Saturday evening the picture could be even better for the mighty Tigers without us having kicked a ball.
Relax. Enjoy it. We can do it. C'mon City!