Blues, set up in a 4-4-1-1 out of possession and shifting to a 4-2-3-1 during attacks, came out of the blocks fired up and determined, focused on craft opportunities through the transition phases.
That’s exactly what happened – albeit with the odd spell of low tempo to recover energy – as Birmingham went close on several occasions during the first period.
Koji Miyoshi had an early sighter, stinging the gloves of Norwich goalkeeper Angus Gunn with a powerful shot from range. The Japanese had another effort saved – on the half-volley around 15 yards out – but it was easily caught. Paik had a glorious chance but fluffed his lines after a Jay Stansfield square. On the verge of the break was the best opening as Krystian Bielik was denied at point-blank territory by Gunn following a Miyoshi cross.
1. John Ruddy – 7
Controlled his area well and made a great save low to his right to deny Nuñez in the first half. Couldn’t do much else on his end.
2. Ethan Laird – 7
Had a mixed game defensively as he was caught sleeping occasionally but made several excellent tackles. Swung in a terrific cross for Jutkiewicz in the second half.
3. Krystian Bielik – 7
Composed in possession and made some outstanding tackles and recoveries to preserve the clean sheet.
It seemed like it was set to be another poor attacking showing but the home crowd roared into life 10 minutes after the break. Paik netted the opener, guiding the ball home from a deflected Anderson cross to make up for his earlier missed opportunity. The goal was announced as Miyoshi’s but there was no doubt about who it belonged to – Paik sprinting away in celebration and surrounded by his jubilant teammates.
Cometh the man, cometh the hero, club legend Lukas Jutkiewicz entered the field in the 68th minute to replace Anderson for most likely his final appearance in royal blue. The Juke had a good chance just a few moments after coming on as he rose highest to attack an Ethan Laird cross, but the header lacked conviction and went wide.
Not many openings followed for either side and Birmingham held on for the narrow 1-0 win but finished the day on 50 points, one adrift from safety. It was a terrific effort to earn the three points but the failures to beat Rotherham United and Huddersfield Town ultimately proved too costly. Blues will be in the third tier for the first time in 29 years.
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