Bristol City player ratings: 9/10 excels and 8/10 proves doubters wrong in nervy 2-1 victory over Norwich City

Mark Sykes and Nahki Wells played pivotal roles as Bristol City secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Norwich City to move into the play-off zone.

Liam Manning made several changes to the side that earned a late equaliser midweek against Sheffield United, with goal-scorers Mark Sykes and Nahki Wells earning their place in the starting lineup.

The decision paid off almost immediately, as Sykes fired the hosts into the lead within six minutes with a stunning strike from outside the box.

It was the perfect start for City whose promotion prospects were boosted thanks to Sykes’ late equaliser in the midweek visit to Sheffield United.

Throughout the first half, Norwich looked vulnerable, and City came close to capitalizing on several occasions. Their persistence was soon rewarded when Wells doubled the advantage, leaving the Canaries with an uphill battle to salvage a result.

To maintain momentum and reinforce his side, Manning introduced George Earthy and Sinclair Armstrong in place of Wells and Joe Williams, aiming to inject fresh energy into an already dominant performance. Despite their efforts to contain Norwich,

City were unable to deny Championship top scorer Borja Sainz, who added to his impressive tally with a late goal for his 18th goal this term.

However, the damage had already been done, and the home side held firm to secure all three points—strengthening their push for a play-off spot and endind the night in fifth spot.

Bristol City player ratings v Norwich City

Max O’Leary: The Reds’ goalkeeper was called to action imminently after preventing the Canaries from finding an instant response, not once but twice while City took the early lead. It was a display which will have proved O’Leary’s doubters wrong and showed the 28-year-old will be crucial to the Robins’ play-off ambitions.

Zak Vyner: Thanks to the Reds defender's outstanding defensive cover, Mark Sykes was free to pose a significant attacking threat. His influence led to an early goal and a player-of-the-match-worthy performance, all while helping the team withstand a late ten-minute surge from Norwich. 8

Rob Dickie: The former QPR defender played a pivotal role in the composure and astute defensive awareness that was displayed in City’s performance tonight, leaving the away side staggered after they created very minimal chances in what was a night to forget for the Canaries. 8

Haydon Roberts: Like his counterpart, Roberts offered a strong attacking presence on City's left flank. The 22-year-old consistently positioned himself well and was unlucky not to register an assist, delivering a series of excellent crosses into the box that, unfortunately, failed to connect with a City teammate. 8

Cam Pring: The 27-year-old delivered a commanding performance, reinforcing City's defensive solidity and ensuring no vulnerabilities on the left flank. His efforts contributed to an impressive clean sheet against strong opposition, capping off a remarkable night for the City defence. 8

Leading the way

Mark Sykes: Following his crucial last-minute equaliser against Sheffield United, Sykes earned a well-deserved place in the starting lineup. The decision proved to be the right one, as the Irish international showcased his skill with a stunning strike from range, leaving Canaries goalkeeper George Long with little chance of preventing the home side from taking an early lead. 9

Joe Williams: After a fantastic display midweek, the midfielder was quick to pick up from where he set off with a strong performance in the middle of the park, seeing the winning outcome on almost every challenge that was put his way. 8.5

Max Bird: The 24-year-old proved to be a vital presence in Manning’s midfield, bringing relentless energy and disrupting the opposition’s ability to play out comfortably. His standout performance was capped off with a well-earned assist. 8.5

Jason Knight: The Irish international played a key role in the Reds' midfield, demonstrating exceptional awareness in both defensive and attacking duties. His well-rounded performance contributed significantly to the home side’s impressive victory. 8.5

Impact

Anis Mehmeti: The Albanian international provided a constant threat to the Norwich back line, and despite not scoring, the 24-year-old certainly made a positive impact for Manning’s side, leading to a huge reception off the pitch after his substitution. 8

Nahki Wells: Similar to Sykes, Wells was another introduced to the starting eleven tonight and didn’t wait long to make an impact, putting his name on the scoresheet, just shy of the 25 minute mark giving the home side a huge cushion early in this match. It was Wells’ first goal since January and well worth waiting for and it also showed why City are ready to discuss a new contract with the Bermuda ace. 8

Substitutes

Scott Twine: Stepping in for Anis Mehmetti, he had big shoes to fill but delivered a strong performance, playing a crucial role in helping City secure a hard-fought victory. 8

Sam Bell: Brought on in place of my player of the match, Mark Sykes, he was introduced to inject energy on the Reds' right flank, ensuring Norwich couldn’t capitalize on any fatigue in the closing stages. 7.5

Sinclair Armstrong: Manning injected fresh energy into his attack, ensuring the Reds maintained their high pressing intensity. As a result, the away side struggled to play out from the back and create goal-scoring opportunities. 7.5

Marcus McGuane: Following a late scare from Norwich, the 26-year-old brought fresh energy to the pitch, helping City secure all three points. 7.5

George Earthy: Replacing goal-scorer Nahki Wells, Earthy showcased his technical ability, allowing City to maintain possession during key moments of the match and ultimately secure all three points at Ashton Gate. 8