Zola’s Birmingham City project raided by Rams

DERBY 1 BLUES 0

Gianfranco Zola’s project will be a frustrating one. Frustrating for fans, the players and the manager himself. While the Italian tries to inject magic dust on Blues’ play, the same old cracks are gaping.

Derby were there for the taking this afternoon but Blues’ biggest problem is themselves. All the effort and endeavour in the world can’t instantly change a mentality embedded so deep in the culture of this set of players, they’re finding it difficult to adapt. If you can’t win a game, don’t lose it. A soft, avoidable penalty tucked away by Darren Bent was the difference. Fine margins.

Just like against Brighton, breaking it down, you’ll find some positives. Yet the positives are not converting into points which is all Birmingham City need right now. And Zola needs them more than anyone.

The first two thirds of the pitch was where Blues were most comfortable. Knocking it around in midfield areas won’t get you anywhere and in the final third, Blues severely lacked.

Greg Stewart showed some decent touches and flicks and he huffed and puffed, but he just isn’t cutting it at the moment. When Zola withdrew Jacques Maghoma, I was left scratching my head as to why Stewart, who looked absolutely shot, remained on the field. And don’t get me started on Maikel Kieftenbeld’s performance.

It’s clear to see that Blues are a work in progress. And significant progress must be made. We’re slipping away. Now let’s be realistic, Brighton and Derby was always going to be a tough start and our points return reflects that. Our bread and butter fixtures are the two forthcoming games against Barnsley and Brentford, two must win games.

The biggest issue with starting a project mid-season is the lack of time a manager gets to rubber stamp his plans. And the patience of the fans, who were seemingly all in Gary Rowett’s corner, won’t last forever.

When all is said and done, football is a results business and at present, Blues aren’t producing. That’s why these next two games are massive.

As always, Keep Right On!