ALEX Neil says Saturday's battling 0-0 draw with Manchester City should give his players belief for the Premier League run-in.

The Canaries fought hard to hold off Manuel Pellegrini's side at Carrow Road while also creating openings themselves via Patrick Bamford in the first half and Graham Dorrans near the end.

Neil, speaking to Norwich City TV after the final whistle, outlined his delight for the group afer they came away with a positive result.

"In the last four or five matches now the players have put every single thing they've got on the line. I'm really pleased for them," said Neil.

"Today is one of the first times they got their rewards for their efforts, so this will bolster their belief hopefully.

"Belief is a big thing for the players and the fans. The fans rallied behind the team in the second half when they needed them, they were really vocal."

The visitors had a monopoly on the ball for large parts of the second half but City defended with organisation and bravery to keep their fourth league cleansheet of the campaign.

Afterwards Neil added: "Our game management and how we went about it today was much better than it has been. It just shows that we're capable of doing it.

"If we can do it against the likes of Manchester City, it's about doing it against the teams around us (in the league).

"We had to alleviate a bit of pressure in the second half. We tried to keep the ball at the top end of the pitch but it's easier said than done against a real good side. We're really pleased with what the players gave us."

Neil introduced Bamford for his maiden start for the Canaries but his injury problems mounted in the first half when Nathan Redmond was forced off just before the interval.

"Nathan rolled his ankle and we'll see the extent of that on Sunday. Fingers crossed because he's a key player for us," he explained.

"I thought Patrick did really well. His shot off the bar was excellent and his movement and his hold up play was good against two difficult centre-backs to play against."

ALEX NEIL: WE GOT OUR REWARDS

More Community

#NCFC

Principal Partners

Primary Partners