There were some solid performances in most areas of the pitch but an early chance squandered by Riis and Armstrong's two late failings showed where City need to improve next season.

Hodgson drawing all the media attention away from the owners won't last too long and all eyes will be on them to hire the Sporting Director & Head Coach sooner rather than later and who fills those roles will either signal more mediocrity or a genuine change in approach from the owner.

Dave Tovey hosts the debate with Dave P, Ant Banks & Adam Taylor

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Struber leaving was not such a surprise when you look at it from a results perspective alone.

Lots to talk about in this very full episode.

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The proposed appointment of a Sporting Director is also a debated point.

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What the fans were treated to was a spirited performance from the team that showed their Austrian boss has not lost the dressing room and they themselves are not on the beach with nothing left to play for.

When Adam Randell's power header drew City level in the final minute of time added on it was no more than they deserved even if they had to thank Vitek for producing some fine saves and along with poor finishing from an unusually subdued Boro side.

With season tickets for 26/27 going on sale very soon how do the board sell what there true intentions really are.

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Conceding first for the 9th successive game, at 0-2 down with half an hour gone based on current form that meant game over.

City were awarded their first penalty away from Ashton Gate in almost 3 years on the hour. Riis's shot was weak making it an easy save for the keeper. If that had gone in then the home side's brittle confidence might have been tested in the closing stages but this is a Bristol City side playing with no heart or conviction.

The cover picture for this episode sums up the cloud of doom that is building over Ashton Gate - the looks on the players faces shows they would rather be somewhere else.

DaveP hosts the debate with Fevs, Ant Banks & Dave Tovey

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Rushworth produced some good saves but Coventry played within themselves, a task made easier when Adam Randell was sent off for a second yellow to make it 10-a-side.

Where do City go from here? The play off dream has gone, so too has equalling last season's points total. Maintaining their midtable position is the best City can hope for and that may prove to big an ask.

Dave Tovey hosts the discussion with Dave P, Richard Angell & Neil Sutton

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The season is over

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Trailing to an early goal City deservedly drew level before a limp second half performance saw the Hornets take all three points with an unstoppable strike from Ngakia.

Playoff challenge is all but over so attention now focuses on the FA Cup

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Heads did not drop after conceding an early goal and they produced some sparkling football to go in at half time in front thanks to fine goals from Riis & Twine.

They fought a rear guard action for most of the second half with Vitek producing good saves when it mattered.

DaveP debates the action with Dave Tovey & Ant Banks as well as the growing injury crisis, some appalling refereeing and take a look forward to Friday's game against Watford.

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If Armstrong's shot goes in early on rather than hit the post it's a different game but Swansea continued their impressive home form when poor defending by City allowed them to score the only goal of the game after 25 minutes.

A debut from Eile that showed promise but more bad than good as play off hopes ebb away. Only 11 points from the past 10 games!

DaveP, Dave Tovey and Ant Banks review the game, talk about Tom Rawcliffe's unexpected exit and look forward to Tuesday night's game at Ewood Park.

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A dreadful first half and some appalling refereeing decisions are amongst the many topics DaveP debates with the panel

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Despite falling behind in a game in which they had started well, goals from Rob Atkinson & Ross McCrorie before the break put City in front. The third on 48 mins came from a classy moved finished off by Riis for his 11th of the season and whilst a Vitek error presented Hull the chance to score a second goal City finished the game quite comfortably.

The main talking point from the game was a pitch invasion by a squirrel which halted play in the second half and contributed to their being 10 minutes of added on time.

The play-off hopes are reignited!

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Players & manager should have done a lot better but the mood instilled by that interview was summed up by the mass exodus from the ground when the Rams scored their 3rd with half an hour remaining and there were even fewer on the final whistle.

DaveP & guests discuss the game and more

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The ball is now firmly in the board's court to bring in 2-3 players before the window shuts that are not squad fillers but oven ready players that must be to a man [Mehmeti apart] better than what we have - NOTHING MORE NOTHING LESS

Dave Tovey hosts the chat with Dave P & Paul Hunt

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The result was expected but it was another lack lustre performance with the only memorable moment being a stupendous save from Vitek.

Struber knows where the blame lies for lack of attracting the much needed additional fire power up front and with talk like that he is now treading the same tightrope as Nigel Pearson did when it comes to criticising the hierarchy.

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DaveP & guests try to take some performances in their analysis of the action along with thoughts on transfer window activity so far with just 2 weeks before it shuts

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Riis scored a hat trick and Earthy made his second debut coming on as a second half substitute but the star of the show in they eyes of many was Sam Morsy. What an inspired signing he looks and his effortless style dictating play from the centre circle is worthy of more than the 6 month contract he has even though he'll turn 35 in the autumn.

Dave P debates the action & more with Neil Sutton, Paul Binning & Dave Tovey

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There was no period where City were in control in a meaningful way and Preston's goals could both have been better defended.

Less said about this games the better.

DaveP debates the action with Dave Tovey & Ant Banks

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The crucial third goal as scored by Twine and then either side of the brace Armstrong actually scored there were enough chances for him to have walked away with the match ball.

Randell & Knight bossed the midfield, Vyner showed his passing ability on numerous occasions and Max dealt confidently with what little attacking threat Pompey offered.

To criticize any aspect of City's performance would be churlish and as the fans swarmed out of the ground at the final whistle many might be thinking that this is our time.

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Both Millwall goals, either side of an Adam Randell strike, could have been better defended and I don't believe it is harsh to say Max O'Leary does not inspire confidence in the back line the way that Vitek does.

Struber got his subs wrong at the New Den and the fans are wondering what's the point of Yu Hirakawa and when will Stokes get some minutes on the grass.

Dave Tovey hosts the debate with Dave Fevs, Tom [The Robins Nest] and Ant Banks.

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Max O'Leary produced two reflex saves in the crucial first half with City's other goal coming from McCrorie but the keeper again didn't dominate his area in the way Vitek has made us accustomed to. Max, along with Tanner did not defend the goal well enough for the home side's strike which meant for a nervous finale, even more dramatic as Grant hit the bar with the very last kick of the game.

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Former City player Tommy Conway played his part in Boro's early threats but City took the lead with another powerful strike from Riis. Boro started the second half at a pace but City sub Rob Atkinson stooped to head home City's points clincher on the hour.

Vitek's training ground injury meant a first start of the season in goal for Max O'Leary. His lack of match practice was evident but he did what he had to do in keeping a clean sheet amidst some hair raising moments.

DaveP debates the action and more with Neil & Tom Sutton plus Dave Tovey

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A tough game home to inform Boro next weekend is the curtain raiser to a sequence of 5 games in 16 days which will define City's season and, in the panel's view, influence transfer window activity.

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City were poor in the opening 45 minutes and Struber must have given them a rollicking at half time as they scored a minute after the restart which signalled a level of performance as good as anything we have seen this season.

With 20 games gone we're sat in 10th but it is such a congested league we have every chances of going into the new year in the play off spots if we can achieve a level of consistency.

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Yes, City played some good football, had some great chances to level after Millwall's early second half goal and had a goal chalked off in injury time for a questionable offside decision but the fact is we've only won two of the last 7.

The panel were split in their opinion of the ructions at the final whistle. One could argue tensions were high after the disallowed goal and Knight waded into Millwall manager Alex Neill after he had disrespected Gerhard Struber.. Whilst everyone else getting involved shows the spirit of togetherness within the squad the counter is that a higher level of self discipline ought to have been on show.

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A much better display then against Wrexham but off the pace in the second half and McCrorie just does not look fit.

6 matches in 24 days starting next weekend against Millwall will define our season.

Dave Tovey hosts the analysis with Mark, Tom & Dave P

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We never got started and when Broadhead put the home team in front on 16 minutes it was no more than they deserved.

City played themselves back into the game and if McCrorie's goal had been allowed to stand just before the break it might have been a different outcome as they stated the second period with some purpose.

Once Wrexham scored their 2nd direct [as good as] from a corner with 74 mins on the clock it was game over as City didn't even press in search of a consolation goal.

DaveP discusses the action with Ant Banks and Toveys Dave & Mark

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City were always in command without being in full control but the win consolidates their play off position and was a welcome boost with two away games coming in the next week.

DaveP discusses the action with Dave Tovey and Tom from The Robins Nest.

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When the Hornets scored after 6 minutes a heavy defeat was on the cards in the eyes of most City fans but the players responded to a man and a Twine free kick special was enough to send the fans back down the M4 in a happy mood.

Time for a well earned break before an even more testing sequence of fixtures.

DaveP is joined by Neil Sutton, Ant Banks & Dave Tovey

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The excuses are there re. injuries & tiredness but at what point do you question team selection & tactics?

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No one on their A-game and the injury crisis deepens with Atkinson suffering a hamstring pull.

Dave Tovey hosts the review with Dave P, Mark Tovey & Ant Banks

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Not only did Armstrong score with the type of goal that could become his trademark but his all round contribution built upon the marked improvement shown in recent matches.

It was a defensive masterclass as City kept a clean sheet, their 5th this season. The goal was under siege for virtually all of the second half although Vitek did not have to make any saves of note

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DaveP discusses the action with Dave Tovey, Les & Mark Tovey

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Vitec pulled off some fine saves but overall this was a game that City controlled for long periods and the margin of victory could have been wider.

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A half time advantage was allowed to slip in the second period and the referee played his part by missing a clear push on McCrorie by Smyth as he headed in for the winner and then in the dying seconds a two handed push in the QPR box on Borges which, unless you're us, would normally see a spot kick given even though it wasn't denying a goalscoring opportunity.

DaveP debates the action with Paul Hunt & Dave Tovey as well as assessing City's chances in a tough run after the break with little hope of having any of the injured first teamers back and ready for action.

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Any concerns about being without Jason Knight were quashed as Zak Vyner moved to a midfield role and showed that might be where he plays in the latter part of this season if the fitness of McNally, Dickie & Atkinson is assured. Randell showed once again what a fine acquisition he has been.

The only blip on the night was an atrocious refereeing performance from John Busby.

Dave P debates the action with Dave Tovey and Tom of Robins Nest.

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The trio rue missed opportunities by Anis Mehmeti and the impact of losing Knight for an unspecified time due to injury.

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Oxford were at City from the off and with too many of our players not on their A game their win, in all honesty, was never in doubt.

Dave P debates the action with Neil Sutton, Tom Hicks & Mark Tovey

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The defence was rarely troubled and City cruised through the second 45 minutes without mishap.

This was the perfect start to the 5 game sequence leading up to the next international break.

Dave Tovey hosts the debate with guests Mark, Tom & Ant

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City won 4-2 but the scoreline could easily have been 7-4 as Riis grabbed his first two goals for City and Vitec produced a save on a par with Gordon Banks memorable stop from a Pele header in the 1970 World.

There were top performances all over the pitch and from the bench too as City go into the first international break unbeaten in the league after 4 games.

DaveP discusses the action with Dave Fevs & Mark Tovey as well as what may or may not happen as the transfer window draws to close.

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They made more of a game if it in the second half but you had he feeling that the home side could have upped the tempo at will and increased their lead had they wanted to.

DaveP debates the action with Dave & Mark Tovey.

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Derby were poor but after Riis went off injured and Randell was again taken off with 20 minutes remaining any impetus had been lost.

DaveP hosts the post match debate with DaveT, Neil Sutton and debut boy Ant Banks.

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It was a game of two halves with the visitors stronger in the second period, indeed if they had taken all three points it would not have been an injustice.

DaveP debates the action with Neil, Mark and Dave.

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Dave Tovey hosts the match review with DaveP & Dave Fevs

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Twine looked the £4M player we thought we had signed with a brace and an assist whilst McCrorie scored another with Mehmeti on target as well.

Vitek was immense in goal and the travelling fans will be looking for this type of away display after many disappointing shows on thew road last term.

DaveP debates the game and more with Dave Tovey, Mark Tovey & Paul Hunt

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A brace from McCrorie, another from Riis and a first from Adam Randell plus a penalty save from debut keeper Vitek - what was there not to like!

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A whole host of other City related topics are covered not least a general view that when the injured are back the squad is pretty sound but what constitutes success in 25/26.

As an aside, the intro music - who remembers that 70s US sitcom which gave many of us old enough to remember their first sight of an actor who went on to become and still is a Hollywood superstar

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We wish him every success.

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Hopes for the future somewhat dashed by Steve Lansdown's proclamation pre-match that nothing is going to change when it comes to recruitment strategy.

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2-2 was enough against Preston as City recovered from 0-2 down to get a point but the way other results went even if defeated they would have stayed 6th

DaveP, Dave Tovey & Neil Sutton review the game which, based on 70 minutes, was no reflection on the second half of a season where City's overall form meant they qualified for the playoffs on merit even if it was with the lowest ever points total ever to achieve this feat

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Leeds were imperious and no City player was on their A game expect for Max O'Leary who prevented a rout.

On to Preston at home which is now a must win

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City were outfought in every area of the pitch with the players seemingly lacking the desire of their relegation threatened opponents.

Tanner scored a stunning goal to make it 1-1 but fluffed a second bite at a chance which would have drawn City level again.

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Clearly with Sunderland reduced to 10 men from the 7th minute the game took on a different pattern to what might have been. City recovered from Mayenda's fine solo goal with defenders Dickie & McCrorie finding the net to secure victory

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Knight & Bird combined to give Earthy the chance to level which he took with aplomb on 30 minutes and from thereon City never look in any real danger of losing the point that most would have taken as an acceptable return from this fixture on the final run in to Matchday 46

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Wells continued to roll back the years with his 3rd goal in four games and whilst a calamitous mix up between Max O'Leary & Cam Pring allowed an equaliser followed by a period of dominance from the visitors a winning goal came in the last seconds from Roberts, the most unlikeliest of scorers.

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First half goals from McCrorie & Wells put a Twineless City in the driving seat before half time. Although Watford reduced the deficit with 10 minutes to go City played out the game in a controlled way like they have done numerous times on this good run.

DaveP hosts the review of the game with Neil Sutton, Mark & Dave Tovey and look forward to a run of games which are the biggest City have participated in for 17 years!!!

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Max O'Leary was victim of a Twinesque style free kick which proved the difference between the two sides over the 90 minutes but despite the Clarets intricate and pacy passing there was nothing more than routine saves for him to do. OK, Burnley were guilty of squandering some guilt edged chances but at just 0-1 down City were always in it. What would fan reaction be if Yu's snap shot in time added on gone in and gave City a point on a day when apart from Boro all the other results went City's way.

Dickie was immense at the back but Twine, Mehmeti & Armstrong had games they would rather forget and Knight didn't seem to have his usual zip in front of watching Everton manager David Moyes.

Our fate in terms of play off participation will more than likely be known by 10.00 PM on Tuesday April 8th - by then we'll have played Watford & WBA at home with 4 points the minimum requirement.

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City have some massive games coming up with a lot of dog eat dog encounters amongst what we see as 4 clubs [WBA, Coventry, Boro & City] competing for 2 slots.

We discuss potential "banana skin" fixtures against QPR & Preston, neither club have anything to play for - so City to fail against them after unexpectedly getting something perhaps at Burnley & Leeds!!

Will experience in the dugout be a factor in determining success - Mowbray, Lampard, Carrick & Manning, our man being the least experienced in every respect.

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Another home win against free scoring opponents who can't defend meant that at least overnight City were in 5th.

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Max produced a couple of decent saves in the first half and had Armstrong's headed chance gone in would deservedly had an advantage at the break.

The Blades were always going to raise their game and subs Brewster & Hamer combined to give the ball to Campbell who slotted home the opener. That City didn't wilt after that is testimony to a strong team spirit and when Sykes converted Earthy's pass for the equaliser no one could say they didn't deserve it.

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DaveP is joined by the Toveys & Neil Sutton in trying to raise hopes that there remain enough games to steal 5th or 6th from Coventry or West Brom

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Zak Vyner scored his first goal in two years with forgotten man Harry Cornick grabbing a crucial second goal with 10 minutes remaining.

City's play off aspirations will gain further momentum if they can follow up this win with another against Hull at Ashton Gate on Saturday

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The villain of the piece was Tommy Conway whose close range header after more weak hands from Max O'Leary had given his side an interval lead.

In the 2nd half, with City reverting to a flat back 4 after Pring introduction on the hour, the fans were treated to a level of entertaining football that if maintained could yet see the play off goal achieved by Matchday 46

DaveP is join by Mark Tovey & Tom Hicks in reviewing the match action, discussing Steve Lansdown's Radio Bristol interview and looking for to, after an up coming 10 day rest, a testing period of 4 games in 10 days

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DaveP, the Tovey's & Neil Sutton dissect the action and conclude that Manning is not brave but perhaps this trait stretches right to the top of the club which explains why we are where we are.

DaveP tells the story of a famous victory over Arsenal that he & Mark Tovey achieved in Round 1 of the TalkSport TV Cup which they filmed in London on Friday. We then did our own quiz face off between Dave Tovey & Neil although Mark's cat became the star of the show!!!

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After Sunday's disappointing result against the Swans the atmosphere was distinctly muted before kick-off and the fans had more bad news to digest with it being revealed McNally is out for this season & more with an ACL. 

There were some strong individual performances in an all round good team display.

DaveP is joined by Dave & Mark Tovey plus Tom Hicks

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We huffed & puffed after Swansea took the lead but to no avail as we went in search of an equaliser which, on balance, we probably deserved.

Barring a miracle this season really is done now!

DaveP, Tom Sutton and the Toveys also give their takeaways from the Radio Bristol interview with Tinnion.

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A free kick to savour with no Twine involvement brought back memories of the weasel routine at Selhurst Park in 2008.

The goal conceded - down to Max or should the still off colour Dickie take some blame?

Earthy blew his big opportunity - anonymous for most of the game and should have done better in a one against one later on?

What of Manning's line up & his in game management - are we where we are because of or in spite of him?

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Blackburn were decent opposition and at one point in the 2nd half it looked like they were going to overwhelm City.

The subs made for City's best period of the game after Well's goal and City closed out the action without too many scares.

There were some good individual performances whilst one or two clearly weren't at their best.

DaveP is joined by Paul Hunt & Toveys Dave & Mark [no relation!]

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DaveP discusses the action with two other Daves' - Tovey & Fevs

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Two poor sides with the decisive goal coming from a striker who'd hardly inspired his home fans since joining in the summer.

Feel sorry for the travelling 3k fans and suggest they spend their money differently going forward when we have a manager who thinks performances like this are acceptable as generally our home form is good!!!

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Scott Twine's perfectly flighted free kick was converted by McNally's deft touch and it proved to be the decisive strike in a game City deserved to win by a more convincing scoreline.

Derby were a more savvy side than recent opponents at Ashton Gate and twice in the first half City had to rely on instinctive saves from Max O'Leary to prevent a goal.

City were in control throughout the 2nd half and their game management in the closing stages deserves praise for the way they effectively mothered the ball by the corner flag!

Jason Knight must have covered every blade of grass on the Ashton Gate turf with a hugely energetic display.

20 games left - a 10/5/5 W/D sequence could be enough. 5 sets of 4 games each producing 7 points !!!!

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A decent performance but questionable substitute timings

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Mehmeti scored a brace and with more composure might have got his hat-trick instead of volleying over the bar.

The back 3 of Vyner, Dickie & McNally looked solid and accomplished and with McCrorie & Pring on the flanks it is certainly a "land of the giants" defensive unit.

A win at Plymouth will fuel further optimism about what the 2nd half of the season might bring.

DaveP, Tom Hicks, Dave & Mark Tovey debate the action from Ashton Gate

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DaveP is joined by Dave Tovey, Tom Sutton & Paul Hunt in reviewing the match action.

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The apathy, lack of desire, call it what you will was epitomised when with 10 minutes remaining the ball broke kindly for McCrorie who embarked on a surging run only to stop and check before laying the ball sideways as nobody joined him.

5 points from 21 games is relegation form and if this is not improved on soon we'll be looking over our shoulders and the looming spectre of relegation.

DaveP is joined by Dave T, Mark & Neil in reviewing this disappointing start to the festive programme.

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DaveP is joined by Gary Owers, Tom Hicks & Ellie Jones.

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The lead lasted 5 minutes before MAX made his error of judgement and City were never in at after that as QPR grew in confidence.

5 points from the last 6 games is a poor return for some decent football at times and if the season is not to be a sequence of dead rubber games very soon the team need to emulate something approaching Blackburn's 6 successive wins.

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Ian, Dave Tovey & Dave P debate the action and look forward to Saturday's game vs. QPR

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City gave themselves a mountain to climb after the 2nd Pompey goal early in the second half which, like the first, came about through trying to play out from the back in a manner that seems to be the scourge of English football right now.

Overall it was a heartless performance and Sunderland on Tuesday night is hardly the place to go and get a result to banish all thoughts on this debacle

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Scoreless at the interval City overpowered their opponents with an opener from Twine, a brace struck with aplomb by Mehmeti and a confidence building strike from much maligned Armstrong in the final minute.

DaveP hosts Tom, Mark, Paul & Ian in a review of the action and other points of discussion with the fact surely it might have made sense to give Atkinson 20 minutes once we had a 3-goal buffer

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DaveP, Ian & Neil discuss the match action and look forward to the visit of Wayne Rooney's Argyle.

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Max O'Leary wasn't tested much throughout but for us their were two turning points during City's best spell which was in the 2nd half: the poor first touch from Yu when he was put clear by Bell; a better one and surely he would have gone on to score. The second was the penalty that wasn't given for a clear handball that with VAR probably would have been.

We also look forward to Tuesday night's game at Vicarage Road.

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Despite injuries & suspension City's starting line up looked far from weak and they conjured up two classy goals after 15 & 62 minutes. There was not a poor performance anywhere in the team as flair, energy & control were displayed in equal measure.

Barring injuries things would appear to be on the up.

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Maybe we didn't deserve to win but we certainly didn't deserve to lose.

DaveP, DaveFevs, Ian & Mark discuss the match action and try to fathom why the injuries keep piling up

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Superb 2nd half. Vintage Wells finish, excellent team goal for 3rd.

Dickie & Roberts make stirring returns after injury.

DaveP, Mark, Ian & DaveT review a fine display which anchored City's place in the top half of the table.

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The game was preceded by an emotional tribute from the fans to the Manning family for the loss of baby Theo.

Defensively City were great, losing McCrorie was a blow but Morrison did enough as a late sub to suggest he should start at PNE, up front the late combo of Armstrong & Mayulu did not spark in a way that is likely to see it happen again!!!

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Awful defending by us, superb goalkeeping by Johannson, Nahki's brace & more

We also look forward to the upcoming Leeds game.

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You can see why Boro have the division's worst shot conversation rate with 2 on target out of 20 today but for me this was City best performance over the whole 90 minutes so far this season.

In a difficult week for all associated with the club due to Liam's tragic loss it is a credit to all the players that they put in the effort and got the result they deserved. Extra credit must go to Chris Hogg who rose to the occasion and, on today, showed we need not worry about how long Liam needs away from the pressures of Championship football.

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On the upside, the unbeaten run is extended to 4 games.

DaveP is joined by Ian, Mark & Paul Hunt in reviewing the action.

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In the second period City were much better, Knight's powerful header from Twine's corner bringing the scores level and on the balance of play in the closing 20 minutes a winning goal would have been no less than City deserved.

DaveP reviews the match action with Neil, Mark & Ian.

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The introduction of Yu for Williams at half time was a masterstroke by Manning in that it allowed Twine to assume the role he was brought in for. The diminutive Japanese winger lifted City with his energy & close control setting up Knight to cross for Armstrong's close range equaliser and then his pass to Roberts drew a penalty conceding foul by Harris which sub Nahki Wells converted with aplomb.

It was a decent performance, no more than that, but if Yu carries on as he started then City have signed a real gem. Can he play on the left? If yes then he switches over there for the soon to be returning Earthy to play on the right.

Ian, Mark, Neil, & DaveP discuss the action & more.

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A bad, and rare, mistake from Max put City on the backfoot before two thunderous shots in the second half from Blackburn's Japanese import Ohashi completed a miserable afternoon.

DaveP discusses the match action with Les, Mark & Ian

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DaveP, Mark & Ian attempt to find some positives from a poor display in front of 3000 travelling fans whose hopes have been raised of a play off challenge after a transfer window when Liam Manning's had everything he could have asked for!!!

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Based on performances overall this season it would not have been impossible for City not to have a 100% record but with 43 games to go it remains a satisfactory start.

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A decent first half was followed by a dreadful second period and Mark Robins' 5 subs at once on the hour proved pivotal with one of them, Ellis Sims, scoring the decisive goal a few minutes after coming on.

DaveP debates the game & more with Tom Sutton, Ian Gay & Mark Tovey

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That goal should have given City a win they just about deserved but no one bargained for Joe Williams making an unnecessary, rash challenge in the final minute which prompted referee Keith Stroud to point correctly to the spot. Max went the right way but the power of the strike gave the home side a share of the spoils which they barely deserved.

Ian, Mark & DaveP discuss the match action and look forward to the midweek Carabao Cup clash with Coventry City

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General view is we are very solid at the back and holding positions in midfield but just where are the goals going to come from if we're to improve on last season

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After going 7 games unbeaten one would have expected a more committed display but everyone appeared not to be on their best game.

Ian, Mark, Neil & DaveP analyse the match action

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Ian, Mark & the Suttons analyse the game with DaveP as well a marvelling out how the storm clouds that were gathering pre-Easter have been replaced by the blue skies of optimism when looking at the prospects for next season

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Mark Sykes fluffed an easy one on one early but City weren't to rue that miss taking the lead after 54 mins with a striker's finish from increasingly impressive defender Haydon Roberts. They only held it for a few minutes before Norwich equalized with a goal that had a hint of offside about it but then stood firm as Norwich sought to further capitalise and finished the stronger side even having a Cornick effort disallowed.

Williams was immense in midfield and surely must be persuaded to stay. Him, Knight & Bird at the heart of the team is an exciting prospect for next season.

Twine was OK but whilst going close with two trademark free kicks DaveP, Ian, Mark & DaveFevs can't make a case for him joining for the money he would cost, "...there is better value out there". He's yet to be on the losing side in his time with us though!!

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City kept that unbeaten run intact with a generously awarded penalty in the 100th minute to make it 1-1.

Huddersfield played with more intensity but Max had little to do in goal which might have been just as well since he appeared to be in some pain after taking a nasty knock in the first half.

Trying to think of nice things we reminisce on the 9th anniversary of the 6-0 win at Bradford which secured the 2014/15 promotion. We debate how many of that team would feature in today's.

We try to look forward to 24/25 with optimism but the view of the panel is that it'll be more of the same.

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Blackburn had one of the worst players to grace the Ashton Gate pitch in recent years with Dominic Hyam at fault for the first 3 goals one way or another! Tommy Conway and sub Nahki Wells both grabbed a brace of goals and the penalty famine appears to be over with each scoring from the spot.

Max O'Leary was rarely troubled, Sammie Szmodics had a return he'll wish to forget and even the referee was decent. Roberts was impressive in defence & Joe Williams brought extra energy to midfield alongside Knight in contrast to the more measured style of James.

If we miss the play-offs by 5-7 points by maintaining this form in the final four games we will be ruing that bad form of the 6 games prior to the international break that produced a measly 3 points!!!

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DaveP hosts a discussion on the match action and more with Ian, Mark & Lez

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Ian, Mark, Neil and debut contributor Ani joined DaveP in reviewing the matchday action as well as speculating where City might finish in the table with just 6 games to go.

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Manning changed the formation which meant the left side was strong with Pring & the impressive Roberts. Mehemti was at his most infuriating but he capped his performance with a well struck winning goal.

Max O'Leary deserves praise for some fine saves and even his distribution was on point today.

What's the view on Twine and Conway for that matter - should we sign the former whilst did our Scottish U21 put some ££££ on his value based on today's performance.

Andrew Kitchen the ref, what a disgrace - showed unbelievable "big team" favouritism 

Overall though one swallow does not a summer make but things aren't perhaps as bad as some of us are making out?

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Premature to be having an end of season review? Not really with nothing but pride to play for over the next 5 weeks.

Lots of topics covered with Richard very much in the "be careful what you wish for" camp for those who say SL should move on but tempering that by saying the purse strings need to be relaxed in the summer with a marquee signing.

Neither Richard or Chris feel Liam's position is at risk although there was some agreement with DaveP's suggestion that Liam could do with some help in the dugout - no disrespect to Hoggy but he doesn't have a playing record of note whilst Manning knowledge is out of a coaching manual!

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There will, it must seem now, little chance of a flurry of decent performances between now and the end of the season and if we maintain our current levels a final placing in the range 17th-19th looks likely.

Will we achieve a best in 4 seasons no of wins with the 3 needed to achieve that, probably not and with it the chance of equalling last season’s points tally.

Its not good and I think it more than likely that a fair number of season ticketholders won’t be renewing between now & August unless something earth shattering happens behind the scenes.

Ian, Mark, and DaveP debate all matters City

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The opening half saw both sides struggle to offer anything by way of entertainment to the sparse Mothers Day crowd but City were worthy winners by the final whistle.

DaveP hosts the Suttons, Mark & Ian reviewing the game where the outcome all but secured Championship football for a 10th successive season.

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At least City fans saw they side put in a decent performance with goals from Mehmeti & Conway and Max O'Leary managed to save a penalty but there has to be questions over Liam Manning's in game management through the last 15 minutes of the game when some shithousery was called for and bringing on King to calm things down and Roberts to support the injury-carrying Pring.

DaveP hosts Ian, Mark, DaveFevs & Tom in an in depth review of the match action.

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Is relegation a possibility with just 9 points from the last 33.

DaveP, Ian, Mark, Neil & Tom Sutton try to make sense of what's gone wrong since that stellar display vs. Southampton on 13 February.

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They [the owners] got rid of a manager who challenged their approach and replaced him with, for arguably the most important position at the club, with "one for the future". This approach echoes our January transfer activity with the likes of Murphy & Stokes. With hindsight perhaps Manning should have been loaned back to Oxford for the rest of the season!!

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DaveP discusses the action with Ian, Mark & Tom with the group unable to draw anything positive from the game, indeed, there are questions over Manning's tactics and inclusion of Twine on the bench yet not playing him when the team were crying out for someone who could unlock the QPR defence.

Ian tried to pin the performance on fatigue associated with the recent cup replays but was shot down and there will be no excuses left to defend a poor performance next week at Sheffield Wednesday as the boss will have plenty of time on the grass in training to get his ideology across to the players.

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Manning talked pre-match about a game plan and City stuck to it in a manner that suggests the players have bought into the manager's approach whilst he too has shown he has the nous to make the best out of a squad he inherited as they executed a counter-attacking style with aplomb.

Ian, Mark, Tim join DaveP in reviewing the match and looking forward to Saturday's game vs. QPR

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They might have gone in at half time with a 3-goal lead had Sam Bell not allowed the keeper to smother the ball in a one-on-one situation but the second half was a different story as Boro camped in our half, had a goal disallowed, pulled one back & didn't capitalise on a good free kick position in the 96th minute when only 5 minutes of added on time had been signalled.

Ian, Mark & DaveP dissect the action and look forward to Tuesday's game against Southampton.

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Like against West Ham the team did not look outclassed in stark contrast to Friday's game vs Leeds. They recovered from an early goal to draw level within 5 minutes and for long periods were very much in control. If only they had converted those chances in the second half of extra time!

Now City need to take this form into the league games.

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Ian, Mark & The Sutton's join DaveP in chewing over the Friday night action at Ashton Gate

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Taking this game in isolation then a point against a team unbeaten in 11 games should be considered a good thing but City's form has slumped in the league to the extent that it is now just 3 points out of a possible 15 with no easy games on the horizon.

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The football from City was sublime at times and an interval lead would have been assured if, perhaps Vyner had elected to shoot, Conway had taken an extra touch and Knight's header just been a foot lower!

Forest improved after the break with Gibbs-White coming on and being the architect for most of their goal threat.

DaveP hosts a review of the game & more with Ian, Mark plus Neil & Tom Sutton

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There was to be no repeat of the 4-1 hammering of the Hornets on Boxing Day. They were a lot more enterprising than some sides seen at home this season but for all their neat play MOL in goal was rarely threatened.

Nice for Twine to score on his debut but we still have a problem at that end of the pitch

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City's physical approach saw them get stuck in against a side lying 6th in the Premier League and the tension reached fever pitch after Benrahma was sent off early in the second half as he retaliated with a kick to Joe Williams chest after the resurgent City midfielder had won a crunching tackle.

City were top dollar in all areas and all they need to do now is maintain this form for the remainder of the season.

Ian, Mark &  DaveP discuss the match action and more

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Once again missed chances early on proved to be City's undoing with under pressure Ryan Lowe pulling a rabbit out the hat and probably saved his job with a triple half time substitution which caught City out big time. Will Keane grabbed two goals, the first after a rare MOL error.

For the final 20 minutes one could only describe City's performance as ragged and they will have to do a lot better on Tuesday if that game isn't to end in disappointment against David Moyes depleted side.

We also talk transfers - the window is half complete, will there be a flurry of activity in the next two weeks?

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Conway's strike from a superb Williams pass was class as were a couple of MOL saves.

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We're no further forward than under Pearson and for all his so called advanced tactical nous Manning does not seem to have a Plan B.

7000 chose to pay on the day looking at the Brum game as a blip which sadly it wasn't - I wonder how many of them will rock up at Ashton Gate to be entertained against Watford on 20th January.

We look forward to our "big day out" at West Ham and it's Deja vu when talking about transfers - "shopping in League 1, won't pay prem wages for loanees".

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One thing we did learn is that Anis Mehmeti is no header of the ball after a couple of missed chances escaped that part of his anatomy. The Vyner/Dickie defensive pairing continues to look strong and Joe Williams is playing with the verve we have not seen enough of in his time here.

DaveP is joined by Ian & Mark in chatting through the match action & more

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A superb all round team performance as City controlled the game for most of the time.

We also try to make sense  and draw some conclusions from a review of the club's 22/23 accounts which showed a £22M loss.

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Penalties are like buses these days, none for ages then 3 come along at once. Conway sent the keeper the wrong way for the second time in a week but his outfield play is giving some cause for concern.

Manning has shown faith in Mehmeti and this was rewarded with a much awaited goal from the Albanian and name me a better summer acquisition than Jason Knight, own two-legged Duracell bunny!

No Hull game would be complete without a questionable penalty and this was not going to break that tradition with Pring penalised for the lightest of touches in the box.

Onward and upwards - hopefully!1

DaveP is joined by Ian, Neil & new contributor Ben Bond discussing the game, comparing the team that beat Man Utd with what we have now plus first hand opinion on the Senior Reds lunch with Jon Lansdown the speaker,

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Is our new boss trying to change too much too soon?

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There is a change in how we play as once again on possession City were on c60% and although the home keeper had little to do there were 14 shots on target!

The goal conceded was again due to careless play on the ball but it will be a boost for his ebbing confidence that Conway got on the scoresheet with a smart finish.

5 points from his first 5 games means Manning's critics can say he's no better than Nige and it will be interesting to see if the "maxed out" playing budget will allow for new additions to the squad when the transfer window opens in 3 weeks time.

Btw, the opening music is Sidesaddle by Russ Conway - a Bristol lad, no relation  to Tommy! You have to be over 60 to remember when he was a chart topper

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The 2nd half was poor with two sloppy goals conceded in a generally poor and disjointed showing.

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Conway had a header that he couldn't direct effectively and then for the second time in 5 days failed in a one-on-one against a keeper with Southampton's Bazunu also producing a smart save to keep out a Sykes header.

City were poor in the 2nd half and now have to face 5 matches in 19 days starting with Norwich at Ashton Gate on Sunday lunchtime.

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After a slow start City went in at half time 2-0 ahead thanks to an absolute stunner from TGH and a coolly slotted home penalty by Tommy Conway who had fluffed a one-on-one opportunity only minutes before.

But with barely 10 minutes gone in the 2nd half that lead had been surrendered and another Stoke City throwaway appeared a distinct possibility but no, City came storming back with Mark Sykes crashing in a volley from Dickie’s header across goal.

Ther big question – did we notice any change in the playing style after 10 days of coaching from new boss Liam Manning. For me it was a yes and that from an occasional observer of City who joined me for the game and commented on the high press on more than once as City had all ten outfield players in the opposition half. That same observer also remarked on how City seemed to lose out on most of the 50-50 challenges with frustrating regularity.

City will face an even tougher test at Southampton on Wednesday and if they come through that unscathed then that play-off challenge looks more than a pipedream.

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Ian, Mark and DaveP discuss the match action and more.

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Why now and who next are amongst the topics discussed

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Ian, Mark & DaveP analyse the match action and take some positives but it is very difficult and to be quite honest we feel a real sense of disillusionment about how things are on & off the field.

The HPC must be more like a "Casualty" ward at the moment!

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Max O’Leary appears to be the villain of the piece for failing to deal with Broadhead’s well struck shot that was the difference between the sides. Fans should cut him some slack in my opinion with his acrobatic save just before the goal and another one-handed stop from Davis at the start of the second half which kept City in the game.

Cornick was unluck to see his late effort strike the post, goalkeeper’s bank than spin along the line in similar fashion to that effort from Alan Walsh in 1989 League Cup semi before being cleared.

DaveFevs joined Ian Mark and DaveP in discussing the match action and thoughts on off the pitch matters. Fevs very much the stat man points out that City’s Xg  was marginally better than Ipswich whilst Ian quotes from Wyscout that we played more forward passes and had more crosses than the visitors but fewer touches in the box - what do we make of that?

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City's shambolic opening half hour did not give the Sky Blues the 2-3 goal advantage they might have expected on another day and most fans in the ground were shocked to see Rob Dickie's headed goal give us a half-time advantage.

Talk post match was more about what Nigel said in an open attack on a lack of communication from the club's hierarchy about his contract situation and whether we are operating under any sort of strategic plan going forward.

DaveP hosts Mark, Ian & Neil in a lively debate which also pays tribute to the late, great Sir Bobby Charlton who passed away on Saturday

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Ian, Mark & DaveP discuss the match action which sees City go into the 2nd international break on the back of 3 defeats in the last 4 which could well have been worse were it not for Conway's late brace at Rotherham.

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Dave P & Ian are joined by Chris Honor reviewing a match remembered only for another 3 points gained on the road after what was at times a shocking performance across the field and that included as usual some crass officiating.

It’s on to Elland Road next where a point would be most welcome going into the next international break.

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Ian, Neil & DaveP dissect the match action. There's some criticism of Naismith as a defender and general bafflement at Nige's quadruple substitution barely 10 minutes into the 2nd half.

We pose the question: would most City fans be happy to accept an indefinite number of seasons on the we are where we are principle and be grateful to the Lansdowns for keeping it that way.

We also look forward to two games in South Yorkshire in the next 7 days.

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City were rocked pre match by the surprise news that Vyner was unfit to play and Pearson’s post-match comments suggest a lengthy lay off if it’s an ACL problem.

The only disappointing thing about City yesterday was their wastefulness in possession when in attacking positions but that apart the 3300 fans who made the trip were not let down and had the satisfaction of winding up Jamie Vardy.

DaveP, Mark & Ian discuss the game and more.

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Racing to a 2 goal lead inside the first 10 minutes the result was never in doubt once that margin had been restored to snuff out any hope of a Plymouth revival, City going in 3-1 ahead at half time.

It was a great team performance savoured by DaveP, Ian, Mark & Neil in their analysis of the game and more.

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More WBA in 2nd 45 but would it have been fair on the visitors had Cornick's effort had gone in - a bad miss or a good save.

Ian & DaveP dissect the match action as well as looking forward to Tuesday's game vs. Plymouth Argyle.

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Mark Sykes had one of his best games in a City shirt as he scored the equaliser with an exquisite left foot shot before setting up Sam Bell for the winner and what will be a major boost to his confidence after a stuttering start to the season.

DaveP is joined by Ian, Mark & Lez in reviewing the match action which included stand out performances by Joe Williams and Duracell Bunny [for all his running], Jason Knight. 

Discussion also moves to the hot topic of the week on all social media platforms which is the unexplained tightening of the purse strings by the owner and how Nige is being left on his own in facing the media with zero communication coming from elsewhere within the club

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Trailing to a first half goal and having a Wells effort disallowed for a marginal offside in stoppage time they bounced back early in the 2nd half as the Bermudian made no mistake tucking the ball in from a Sykes cross for his first goal in open play for over 20 games.

There were good performances in all departments but the main issue for City is clinical finishing in front of goal and with Weimann breaking down within a couple of minutes after coming on as a 75th minute sub there will be growing calls from the fanbase to relax the purse strings to sign another forward in the remaining days of the transfer window.

DaveP, Ian, Mark & Neil analyse the match action, look forward to Tuesday’s Carabao cup tie and speculate on transfers.

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DaveP hosts Ian, Neil & Mark in an analysis of the match action and then talk about how the next 12 days could shape City's season if at the end of it they are out of the cup, pointless from trips to Hull City & Swansea and haven't made additions to the squad that are essential.

Note: recorded live and viewable when we do on Twitter [@ForeverBristol1] and You Tube

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Ian, Mark & DaveP discuss the match action where Vyner & Dickie were imposing at the back, the midfield trio played as a highly effective unit and Harry Cornick showed there is perhaps a bit more to his game than being a long throw specialist.

The trio discuss how the Scott money should be spent, that Vyner needs a much improved offer NOW and what should we make of Steve Lansdown's comments in his interview with the Guernsey Post

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Ian, Neil & DaveP discuss the game which banished the negative thoughts in the wake of the disappointing season opener vs. Preston. Knight playing in a more advanced role looked a very different player to the one presenting a stuttering performance on Saturday. Mehmeti showed some nice touches and control in his game. Wells showed his striking prowess which will be needed in Conway’s absence. On top of this we witnessed a sparkling debut from Roberts who will push Pring hard in the months ahead for a place in the starting line-up.

And what of Scott’s departure. It is galling that it’s to little Bournemouth, but one has to use that terms when you look at how far down the pyramid they were a little over 10 years ago. He’ll link up with Kelly & Semenyo where success will be simply managing to stay in the division. We talk about what if any of the money will be spent in the next 21 days. Might Nigel move away from his rigid stance towards the loan market?

Someone this episode will make it 150k downloads since we started in June 2020 – thanks to you all for your support

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DaveP hosts a review of the game with Chief GrInch Ian Gay and the more balanced [?] opinions Neil Sutton.& Mark Tovey.

We began by talking about the positives that could be drawn from matchday 1.

What lessons were learnt, what line up will Nigel start against Oxford on Wednesday and with 3 of the next 4 away before the international break will City muster enough points to say it’s a decent start to the season

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Shelts talks about his earlier career with Walsall, Villa and Sheffield Wednesday plus life at City & beyond.

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Goals either side of half time from Sykes & Bell were enough against a disappointing QPR who came into the game looking to extend an unbeaten run to 4.

Ian, Mark & DaveP review the match action but mainly talk about what the side might look like next season.

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It was an inglorious final [probably] appearance for Alex Scott who trotted off the pitch to muted appreciation, his glaring error presenting the visitors with the opportunity some minutes earlier to retake the lead after Conway's cool finish had brought the sides level.

For what it's worth if £20M + is offered for Scott we should take it and run as his form of late is doing nothing to justify a fee of this magnitude. 

We also agree that talk of Joe Bryan making a return is no bad thing and offer reaction to Steve Lansdown's interview yesterday on Radio Bristol.

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DaveP is joined by Ian plus, and its good to have him back after a long absence, Dave Fevs as they discuss the match and more

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City silenced the home crowd with a spirited first half performance but the Blades upped the pace in the second period and scored the winner through a Man City loanee valued at £20M.

Should City have had a penalty in the first half when Bell was flattened? Who was Nigel referring to when assessing the performance of his subs who failed to make the impact he was hoping for and added the comment “I don’t care who they are”? Ian, Mark and DaveP discuss the game and more.

[Apologies for some sound issues!!]

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Great to see Alex Scott back on the grass but for me he has to be showing in the remaining games more than fleeting glimpses of a player who is allegedly going to attract bids over £20M in the summer.

Ian, Mark & DaveP analyse the match action and make the bold assessment that anything less than emulating the efforts of Luton, Coventry and Millwall who all look likely to make the play offs should be considered failure in 23/24 season

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Harry Cornick did a lot to silence his detractors with a goal and an assist and there is plenty to suggest that with 5 points from the last 3 games a City team without Alex Scott can do OK at this level.

Ian, Mark & DaveP analyse the match action

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We were battered for 20 minutes before having two chances to take an unexpected lead. It would be true to say it was against the run of play when the home side took the lead with half time approaching but City dominated after the break and won it with a first of the season for Zak Vyner and a first for the club from Anis Mehmeti.

Ian, Mark & DaveP discuss the game and look forward to the Bank Holiday Monday game vs. high flying Middlesborough

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Ian, Mark, Tom & Neil with DaveP hosting discuss a match City should have won but didn't due to poor play in the final third.

We also talk about the Ashton Gate pitch, the club's high sustainability ranking, the Easter games and when will Kane Wilson get a few minutes on the pitch perhaps positionally in front of not instead of the fast improving Tanner

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Overall it was a marginal improvement on the Luton game, indeed, Omar Taylor-Clarke who'd come on as a sub in that one made the starting line up and didn't look out of place.

Not our normal intro as I couldn't resist including our pre-live chat regarding Liam Fontaine's recording career which I didn't know anything about before today!!!

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If the boys had gone in 4-0 down at the interval that would not have been an unfair reflection of the Hatters dominance. As it was at 1-0 you're always in the game and in fairness City improved as the game went on.

The squad is ravaged by injuries by why Nigel chose to have just 6 subs which included the "sick" & "unfit" Wilson remains a mystery but Omar Taylor-Clarke showed in the 30 minutes he was on that he could be another to make the step up from the academy.

We also discuss THAT kit & badge, season tickets, summer transfer speculation and look forward to Sunday's game at Swansea

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City dominated the opening half and deserved to be in front at the break but then a stunner from Weimann and an assured finish by Scott which capped a fine performance saw them run out easy winners.

Ian, Mark & Neil are led in discussing the action by Dave P as well as looking forward to Wednesday's tough game at Luton.

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The fact is though we didn't beat them, indeed, were it not for missed chances we should have been out of sight by half time and there's no denying we have a lack of goals crisis developing with only one from open play in the past 6 games.

Ian & debut boy Tom H join DaveP in reviewing the match action and looking forward to Saturday's game vs. Blackpool

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DaveP is joined by Chris Honor, Mark and Ian in a review of the match action and looking forward to Tuesday's game against Neil Warnock's Huddersfield.

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Despite being massive underdogs City were well and truly in this game and one could argue that the final scoreline flattered the illustrious visitors.

Pring, Kalas & Scott were individual stand out performers in a great team effort and if we play like this for what's left of the season it augers well for 23/24.

DaveP hosts Ian, Mark & Tom in discussing the match action and more.

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DaveP is joined by Tom, Ian & Mark in reviewing Saturday's match action as well as memories of Dickie Davies, Motty and former club CEO Colin Sexstone who all sadly passed away this week. We also talk about the new kit and, of course, look forward to the "big one" on Tuesday night.

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DaveP discusses the game with Chris Honor, Mark & Ian with the latter giving a short debrief on what Steve Lansdown said in his address to the Senior Reds on Thursday.

Listen out for Chris explaining what it's like to take a penalty under pressure as he recalls his strike from the spot against Joe Jordan's Hearts.

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Ian, Mark & DaveP review the game and look forward to Saturday's testing fixture at Sunderland.

Hear DaveP speak on What the Falk, a Sunderland podcast, with his thoughts on the upcoming game

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If you're an optimist you'll be looking up the table and questioning whether the play offs are in reach. The simple fact is we need 10 wins from 16 which is as many as we've achieved in 30 - a big ask?

The back 4 were the difference in City's favour as they put their bodies on the line with tackles and blocks to the extent that Max O'Leary was rarely called into action.

Sykes maintained his good scoring run and their was also a chance to see Mehmeti and Cornick the latter squandering a late opportunity to make the game safe.

DaveP hosts a discussion with father & son duo Neil & Tom plus Mark & Ian . There's even time to talk about the music of Burt Bacharach whose innings came to a close this week.

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We reflect on the transfer window activity, Man City ticket pricing and assess at what  point do we dare to dream about the unthinkable!

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Sam Bell scored a brace to suggest he can fill the gap left by Semenyo's departure and it was a first goal of the season for Alex Scott whose overall performance showed the watching scouts that any bid to sign him must begin in £M with a 2!

City need to bring this form to the league and in so doing they will banish any fears of relegation. Happy times.

Ian, Mark & DaveP discuss the game and speculate on what might happen as the transfer window enters its last 48 hours

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You just knew it would be against City that the visitors would record their first draw of the season and they took the lead early in the second half before another Semenyo strike brought an equaliser. City did enough to win on that 2nd half performance which saw a strong penalty claim turned down and Bell being robbed by a marginal offside decision of his 2nd goal of the week.

Vyner was again impressive but Blackburn countered the threat of Pring and whilst the midfield was tidy it lacked pace with Scott being particularly quiet. Williams for any one of the trio for the last 20 mins would have been a sensible substitution.

DaveP hosts the discussion on the game and transfer talk with Ian, Neil & Tom

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If City played like this every week with a passion or purpose then win, draw or lose the fans would feel they had been entertained like they were on Saturday with 4 excellently worked goals and some outstanding individual performances in an all round first class team effort.

DaveP hosts a discussion with Neil, Ian & Mark about the game, transfers and general football matters

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City were much improved in the second period due to a change of shape and Semenyo's headed goal brought a deserved equaliser, indeed, City could well have won the game with Benda saving well from Wells.

Two more clear cut penalties weren't awarded by Clive Pawson and Weimann & Conway went off injured but attention now switches to next Saturday's game at home to Birmingham which is a must win.

Ian is host to Mark plus father & son combo Neil & Tom as they talk about the game & lots more

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There are many positives to draw from the 1-1 draw at the CBS Arena, not least the fact that Zak Vyner is looking an accomplished Championship defender alongside Rob Atkinson who has responded positively to the "tough love" comments of his manager. Throw in the improving form of Cam Pring and increasing confidence of Max O'Leary and you have evidence of a defence that is at last coming together as a unit.

It is elsewhere on the field that City's problems lie and whilst Semenyo looks to be returning to his best with strong running and a tidy finish for his 4th of the season it is Andi Weimann's lack of sharpness in front of goal that is concerning and reflects that perhaps last season's form was a one off. Midfield too appears to be lacking in terms of creativity and maybe Alex Scott should be given a rest as he doesn't look right now the player we know he can be.

Ian, Mark & DaveP review the action and what might happen in the transfer window now that it's open.

Today's intro music is because I was reminded of 70s group Tavares when Coventry brought on one of their subs who had the same name!!

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It wasn't pretty but the commitment was there to shut up those who say Nigel has "lost the dressing room". At least his team selection properly saw round pegs in round holes!

DaveP hosts the debate with Ian, Mark &  special guest Chris Honor

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More talk of square pegs in round holes and whether we can see evidence of potential for improvement from a wretched run of just 3 wins from the last 16 league games.

Nige's post match comments seem to have upset the fans again albeit for different reasons and whilst Ian, not unexpectedly, is calling for an immediate change the panel are unanimous in their concern for the remainder of the season.

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A flat atmosphere came to life with Scott's shot that was saved then the Wells, Weimann 1-2 that saw the Austrian hit the post when a goal would have been a just outcome. The goal from Wells, his 8th, was down to a superb cross from Pring. More of this please

45+2 and King loses out in a challenge that a recognised central defender would have cleared and the same naturally attacking midfielder hashed his clearance on the hour with James unable to reach the ball and the Stoke striker pounced to score the winner.

We had chances to draw level but never tested the keeper.

The main talking point however was the content of Pearson's post match interview with BBC's Ali Durden in which our manager publicly threw under the bus the defender he paid £1.6M for with his "need to have players I can trust" comment as justification for selecting King.

Atkinson & Klose didn't make the matchday 18, Tanner made way for Vyner when it would have made more sense to play Tanner at RWB rather than Weimann. But then how do you accommodate the Austrian without leaving out Scott or one of Conway or Wells.

Ian & DaveP analyse the situation and are in agreement in their lack of confidence in Pearson to spend wisely any money he might have in January.

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Taking the lead through an own goal, City were guilty of more sloppy defending which allowed the home side to draw level before goals for Williams before the break and Pring late on, his first for the club, gave City victory.

Max O'Leary produced a save deep into injury time which showed why has has now firmly got his grip on the keeper jersey.

Dave P is joined by Ian & Mark in reviewing the action, looking forward to the upcoming fixtures and in the week which saw Scott Murray celebrate 25 years service at the club they all recall their individual stand out memories of this true club legend.

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Manager Joe Jordan signed Rennie from Leeds United in the summer of 89 and he went on to play 104 games for the club scoring 8 goals. He left in the 93 close season for Birmingham City before enjoying 4 seasons in the Premier League with Coventry City. 

Who remembers those corner routines in 89/90: pinpoint corner from Gavin to Rennie at the near post for a back header which often found Taylor or Turner ready to pounce!

Hope you enjoy this interesting chat with Dave who viewed football very much as a job rather than an all consuming passion

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If you gloss over the fact we've only won two of the past 12 league games and have only one win in the last 7 home games then a point against a side that was in the Premier League last campaign is a good result. City had a couple of chances which fell to Tommy Conway but missed the target whilst only a super save denied Andi Weimann placed header.

We talk about memories of Nathan Baker who bade an emotional farewell yesterday and similar regarding the 97/98 promotion team as many were paraded at half time as part of a 25th Anniversary celebration.

We also discuss what areas the coaching team should be focusing on with a four week break which starts today.

Btw, the opening music is the BBC's World Cup 1978 theme piece. If you are over 55 and couldn't place it hold your head in shame!!!

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Who would argue against the view that Conway, with 8 goals and 4 assists, is CIty's most saleable asset as Semenyo continues to fire blanks and Scott often flatters to deceive?

City had to rely on three more first class saves from Max before the break  and Boro hit the woodwork. It was no real surprise when they scored within 2 minutes of the restart to level the scores and from then on it looked like only one team would win but Boro didn't and that is perhaps testimony as to why they are in 20th position.

Sykes & JDS were dropped as Nigel, in his wisdom, sought to confuse Boro by playing Semenyo & Weimann as wing backs. Zak was a pale shadow of the player who has confounded the critics in recent weeks whilst Scott, Williams & James let veteran Howson run the midfield.

2 wins in 12 IS relegation form and a cup win against Lincoln & 3 points against Watford are a pair of results that look optimistic to say the least.

Ian, Lezz & DaveP chew over the game & more

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Another sloppy goal conceded, a misfiring forward line but the woodwork hit twice and Alex Scott perhaps back to his best.

Disgraceful performance from ref in 2nd half and shithousery from Sheffield of the highest order which, as Ian puts it is game management when we do it!

We remain a work in progress but should we be looking over our shoulders at the chasing pack whilst still believing a play off place is still there for the taking.

We look forward to the 3 games before the World Cup break and, assuming everyone is fit in December how should Kal Naismith be accommodated as "reliable defender" he is not 

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Injury & illness meant City started with a back three of Tanner, Vyner & Pring. Whilst it might have been different against more physical opposition as a trio they did very well with Pring voted as MOM.

When Tommy Conway put City in front with a well worked goal it was just reward for a sparkling opening, indeed, if early chances been converted the game would have been won before the half hour mark. 

Perhaps it wasn't the worldy described by DaveP but the power drive that took a deflection for an equaliser was no more than Swansea deserved as City were somewhat lack lustre for the last 20 minutes.

In this episode we talk briefly about club finances, ponder whether we'd like to watch a possession based style as displayed by Russell Martin's side and assess our chances in the final three league games before the World Cup break starting against Sheffield United on Tuesday.

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Ian, Mark & DaveP go through the action and try to fathom the root cause of the problem.

We're worried about the falling value of our stars and we had no inside knowledge when we suggested it highly likely that Richard Gould would return to the world of Cricket, something that has now been confirmed.

Thank goodness we have a week off!!

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Not unexpectedly, after a poor run of from, Andi Weimann was left out of the starting 11 which allowed Matty James to come in and offer that extra presence in midfield we've been calling for.

City's first half display was of the highest order and they were rewarded with goals from Joe Williams, his first for the club, and Nahki Wells, his 7th of the season.

It was backs to the wall stuff in the 2nd half as City's defence held firm against a barrage of corners [13 in total] and the Baggies twice hit the woodwork.

If City maintain this from then the sky's the limit but it is a very big IF!!

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Who was to blame for that winning goal - Kalas or Max? 

With 7 games until the World Cup break can City stay out of the bottom 3?

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Pearson made 4 changes from the side that lost badly at the weekend, the most notable being replacing Bentley with O'Leary who did enough to suggest he's good enough for another extensive run in the side.

Preston are a nasty bunch and if you add to this a typical Keith Stroud refereeing display and a late goal to make it 1-1 it is even more credit to City that they emerged victorious with that 90th minute winner.

Tim Klose was imperious at the heart of the defence and his presence made us look more secure than for a while.

Ian, Mark & a welcome return for DaveFevs speak with host DaveP about what was a good night which augers well for Saturday's home game with Millwall

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In the 4 games following we've managed just a point and the performance at St.Andrews on Saturday was perhaps the worst City have put in during the Pearson era.

3 goals conceded, all from set pieces, proved City's undoing and the sparkling forward play of last month appeared a distant memory as it wasn't until 85 minutes that they mustered a shot on target.

Who's the guy in this episode's picture? Alberto Tarantini was a star in Argentina's 1978 World Cup winning team. Spurs got Ardiles & Villa, Birmingham signed this former Boca Juniors defender who only lasted 23 games after he attacked a fan for heckling! Seemed like yesterday was a tribute to him with Blues Chong, Hannibal & Sanderson all sporting his trademark hairstyle along with our own HNM who's own performance was the pits.

Ian, Mark & DaveP chat through a game with a tone that we hoped was long gone

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Were there any standout performances and how should the side line up against Birmingham at the weekend

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Ian, Neil & DaveP review the match action which saw City give themselves a mountain to climb by gifting two goals to the visitors inside the first 22 minutes and that was after an opening 15 minute spell when we looked to be at our best.

We talk individual performances, formations and look forward to Tuesday's home game against Coventry.

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Nahki scored against his former club and whilst City had some good periods in the game they looked tired and leggy at the end and no one would deny that overall Burnley were the better team.

Ian, Mark & DaveP review the game and if you click on this link you can hear the thoughts of Matt from Burnley's NoNayNever Podcast: https://voca.ro/1cvgQiDyiES3

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Kal Naismith was guilty of two fundamental errors in the first 20 minutes which meant City were left with a mountain to climb. They were not shocked into submission by the early setbacks and played with a purpose fully deserving of another Conway goal which reduced the deficit before the break.

City dominated the early stages of the 2nd half but totally against the run of play a poorly defended goal just past the hour put the home side two goals clear. But City came back again with a goal from supersub Semenyo which had it not gone in would surely have seen referee Webb give City a penalty after Williams had been scythed down in the box.

So much good about City's play but those mistakes at the back are still there and must be eliminated starting at Burnley and that is another tough game at the weekend

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Nige kept the same team and was rewarded when Wells & Conway gave City a two goal cushion with goals either side of half time. Blackburn hit back with the first of their two goals which highlighted City's underlying frailties but within a minute Wells had got his 2nd to restore the advantage with technology rewarding him rather than Naismith whose finish was emphatic.

DaveP hosts Ian, Mark and Lezz who are in buoyant mood recalling the action and conversation switches to whether this start can be maintained and what decisions might have to be made if we occupy a similar position at the turn of the year

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City rose to seventh in the Championship with this win that keeps the unbeaten run going before a testing yet less intensive sequence of fixtures in September.

DaveP hosts Neil, Ian and Mark whose sound problems are at last banished!!!

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The closing 20 minutes was a disaster and undid the good work in a match where City could have been two up before the home side's 7th minute opener.

If sending Semenyo on with half an hour remaining was an inspired substitution [he scored with his first touch] then you have to look at the composition of the bench to ask why Wilson or Naismith didn't come on to replace Scott and where were Pring & Klose?

Ian, Mark, Lezz & DaveP talk through the match and look forward to the upcoming game against Huddersfield. 

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Team selection for Saturday and beyond is problematic for all the right reasons and will there be anyone off to pastures new before 1st September

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DaveP debates the action with Ian, Lezz & Rob Pickles as well as looking forward to the week ahead, transfers and the statistical anomaly which is the only term to describe the side never being awarded a spot kick in line with what is the norm for 91 other clubs!

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What a difference to the pace of the game transpired with Martin's omission from the starting line up and Conway & Wells as a strike duo finished where they left off against Coventry. Surely they must start on Sunday?

Nigel made some outspoken yet justified comments about the match officials which we debate as well along with looking forward to the weekend's Severnside derby.

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I find myself conflicted as before the game I would have taken a point but it was aspects of the performance that sees me take the view that we are in for a long hard season.

Why do we run out of puff with annoying regularity?

What of Alex Scott? Played better at RWB than he appears to be doing in his favoured midfield.

A fit Joe Williams but is he all that and perhaps the same applies to Kal Naismith?

JD attacking threat? don't think so.

There are some positives - Sykes looks a decent signing, Tommy Conway is doing fine and even Zak Vyner is doing OK in so far as he is no worse than those alongside him.

And what of Nigel Pearson? Easy to jump on the beating with a stick bandwagon but he doesn't help himself does he? Seems unable / unwilling to change tactics mid-game and displays an unbelievable level of loyalty to Chris Martin who was AWOL for most of the time yesterday. He took off our youngest two players yesterday but still our target man who's 34 in November does a full 90 mins and you just know he'll be selected Tuesday night vs. Luton.

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We also debate what format any sale of the club might take - anyone got £250M to buy everything?

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It is quite depressing that c8k non-season ticket holders from Bristol decided to give it a go on the day and whilst they saw a 5-goal thriller how many will be back against Luton a week on Tuesday?

Lansdown's chat with Geoff was very interesting and my interpretation of what he said echoes the thoughts we've expressed on FBC and that is that the football club can be hived off from Bristol Sport if the price is right.

If you wondered why the song Georgy Girl by The Seekers is our in & out music it is in memory of their lead singer, Judith Durham, who passed away yesterday. I saw The Seekers in Pantomime [Humpty Dumpty] as a 10 year old at the Bristol !! Hippodrome in 1966

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When City took the lead with a fine Weimann goal on the half hour it was no more than they deserved against a Hull side with so many new additions they probably don't know each other's names yet!

Vyner had a decent game on his return to the first team although was lucky not to have a penalty awarded against him for an early challenge. People say things even themselves out over a season and maybe ref Dean Whitehouse aimed to prove that point when he awarded the home side a penalty after a dive by Tetteh that would not have looked out of place at the Commonwealth Games in the Triple Jump. That made it 1-1 through Tufan's well struck kick and although Weimann almost scored his second to put City back in front there was a growing sense of inevitability that Hull would get the winner as a the game moved into injury time. The fact that Seri's 93 minute strike took a wicked deflection off Klose should not detract from the fact that he was totally unmarked 20 yards out when he took aim.

Sykes was as good as Scott was poor and Nigel must be wondering whether James & Williams have enough energy and creativity to be the go to midfield pairing.

With 5 subs allowed perhaps Nigel could have brought on HNM and maybe even Wells to run down the clock with Martin the obvious player to come off?

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Richard reflects on the events that have put the club in its current dire financial state and says in Richard Gould and Nigel Pearson the Lansdowns have two men who can take the club forward. 

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We also share fond memories of Stoney Garnett

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There's a bit of rugby chat to begin with before we discuss the in vogue topics of HNM's contract, the best City line up, where we might finish in the table.

We also debate whether the Atyeo really is the best place to house 3000 Sunderland fans to be on August 6th, indeed any club with a following of similar size - we make our suggestion on alternatives!

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Amongst topics discussed are the HNM contract situation, who'll wear the captains armband, the best X1 for Saturday's opener vs. Hull and with 15% of the season set to pass in 33 days [30/7-31/8] what is the predicted points haul from the 7 matches.

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FBC Podcast was formed 2 years ago this weekend. We've had almost 83k downloads and we remain fiercely independent. Thanks for listening and I hope you continue to enjoy it.

*It wouldn't be an FBC Podcast without a sound issue!!!

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There are many positives alongside the usual gripes as the usual close season speculation on transfers gathers pace.

Can, should and will Nigel Pearson be able to persevere with WSM or should the side be built around a played in position Alex Scott, and how would the club react to a fair offer for Andi Weimann are amongst the topics discussed.

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A generally positive chat which meandered on to talk of transfers in and out and the shape of the team in 22/23

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Ian, Mark & DaveP spend little time reviewing the match action where sloppy goals were again evident, instead talk is of the curse of the HPC with the ACL injury to Benarous, how do you accommodate Alex Scott in a midfield without breaking up WSM and was it crocodile tears from HNM at the final whistle as he said his goodbye to the fans. If you're that sorry to be leaving just sign the contract that's been in front of you for three months and whilst we all agree you really are a decent human as a player you really haven't kicked on in the three years you've been here.

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The W-S-M strike combination scored all the goals and provided the assists in a sparkling display which augers well for next season.

Ian, Mark, Neil & DaveP discuss the game, transfer speculation plus the outside investment in the club owner Steve Lansdown says he wants but at what price.

There's no talk of flying shoes or old player interviews in this episode.

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Ian, Mark & DaveP discuss the match action and debate whether we have turned a corner and are, at last, heading in the right direction.

We also discuss whether wage assisted loan outs of the "unfavoured" are one way to get the wage bill down.

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Those that were there, more like 13k than the published 18k+, would have walked away in the early evening feeling they had been entertained against an equally intense Blades side whose play off chances are faltering. The poor performance against Peterborough was well and truly banished and I'm sure a fair few who were questioning whether to renew their season ticket will now do so!

Ian, Mark and Neil with DaveP in the chair go through the match action and more.

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Watching the goal again, a wonder strike by Jay Dasilva, a lot of credit must go to Antoine Semenyo who expertly shrugged off two Stoke players to provide the assist pass.

Only our 5th clean sheet of the season, were it not for the goal perhaps the other main talking point was the WWF style clash between Bentley and Brown on the stroke of half time.

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Is it player mentality, coaching or both that are the root cause of the problem or does it go right to the top and the benevolent and benign dictatorship that is life under the Lansdown dynasty - SL is undoubtedly a winner in business but not when it comes to running a football club; others have achieved a lot more with a lot less.

Are NP's veiled criticisms of policy and attitude evidence of him trying to orchestrate his own sacking [he's ain't walking away from the £2M balance owed on his contract] and if that happens who would we be happy with to lead us forward into 22/23