Back To Winning Ways

It was almost a carbon copy of Saturday’s game against Peterborough: we have more than enough chances to put ourselves ahead by some margin, we get a goal, we miss some astonishing sitters and then we conceded early on into the second half. The only difference being, of course, last night we kept on plugging away and scored a last minute equalizer which, on the whole, and over the course of two games: we deserved.

Going 1-0 up after just two minutes thanks to a perfectly placed shot from Jean Beausejour, the first half was, for the second game running, heavily dominated by the home team. The early goal meant we had ample time to go two or even three up before half time, and Nikola Zigic – much more lively after his static substitute appearance at the weekend – came close to doubling the advantage, heading just wide from a David Murphy free kick. Strike partner Marlon King was also left blushing, missing an open goal after some great solo work from Zigic, and it seemed easier to score than miss.

Blues went in at half time one goal to the good, yet, de ja vu was about to strike. Early into the second half Burnley were awarded a free kick in roughly the same area Peterborough scored theirs from at the weekend. The free kick was taken but cleared for a corner. Sighs of relief could be heard from the crowd, glad they had not witnessed an exact replica of the weekend’s game at St. Andrews. Of course, that was before Burnley scored from the resulting corner, and Blues were back to square one for the second game in a row.

But, true to their anthem, they kept right on, fighting in search for the winner. Keith Fahey and Jonathan Spector kept play moving in midfield and were looking to get the ball out to both the wingers and the fullbacks as Blues continued to put heavy pressure on the Burnley defence. Fahey, who comes under a lot of unfair criticism, had a creditable game and close twice with long range efforts. Burke similarly took on the Clarets’ backline several times but just couldn’t find a way through. The introduction of Nathan Redmond added yet more attacking firepower to Chris Hughton’s arsenal, and the teenager’s mazy runs confused the Burnley players several times, yet when they reached a team mate, the ball still managed to stay out the back of the net. Zigic missed another great opportunity to score after some great work by Redmond on the left hand side. The youngster wipped in a ball that went straight to the back post where Zigic was standing but the Serbian, being pushed by a Burnley defender, headed agonizingly wide.

The goal just didn’t seem to be coming and it looked to be like two points dropped again at home. But, as the three minutes were put up on the board, Blues finally got their lucky break. Murphy’s cross from the byline found an unmarked Burke in a busy 6 yard area, and the Scot managed to fire home; running off in jubilation towards the bench as soon as the ball left his foot.

Blues finally got what they deserved and will be looking to repeat the same performance – of not just dominating but picking up the three points too – in their next few fixtures, which include three tough away games on the bounce: away to first Blackpool, Braga in the Europa League and then Cardiff the following weekend. So it was a relief to finally get back to winning ways, and even if it was frustrating at times, you can’t help but admire the football we’re watching this season.



Full Time: BLUES 2-1 Burnley
Goal Scorers: Beausejour (2) Bartley (49) Burke (91)
Star Man: Although Nikola Zigic recieved man of the match in the ground, I felt that Chris Burke deserved it more. His tireless running up and down the wing, his excellent link-up play with Stephen Carr and the two central midfielders, his ability to take on players and beat them in the tightest of spaces and for his much-deserved last minute goal. Burke will tear you apart, again!
Next Up: Blackpool away - Championship

Missed Chances

Of all the clichés used in football, “it was a game of two halves” has to be the most over-used, yet the most apt to describe certain games. That brings me onto Birmingham City v Peterborough United. Back to league action after a two week international break both sides, whom both sit in the top half of the table, were looking to get some points on the board at the start of what is a heavy winter fixture list.

It was the home side who looked the more astute and attacking outfit, and thanks to the international break Blues seemed fresh and came out the blocks straight away. It took just three minutes for them to calve out their first chance. David Murphy, back in the team after an injury to Liam Ridgewell, put in a cross which met Jean Beausejour’s head but the man who had been sent home from international duty after excessive drinking was unable to guide the ball home.

Blues continued to pose a real attacking threat and the crowd became louder as their team began to press and press; putting a string of passes together and creating space for themselves as they kept possession easily and warded off any oncoming counter-attacks from the Posh. The front two of Marlon King and Chris Wood were as lively as ever, and the former was denied several chances to put him team ahead. However Blues’, and Marlon’s, persistence prevailed in the 22nd minute of the game. Chris Burke began the move with a pass to Beausejour, and the Chilean found team mate Murphy who, in space, was able to cross the ball low and hard into the box where King was waiting to side foot the ball home. It gave Blues a lead they deserved, and they looked to be adding to it sooner rather than later with Burke, Beausejour and Murphy all causing considerable problems for the Peterborough back line.

There was no let-up after half time as Blues again hit the ground running and picked up where they left off: in the ascendency. Murphy again was causing problems for Posh and almost doubled Blues’ advantage, but he managed to head Burke’s cross just wide when it would have been easier to score. And later he came to rue this missed chance. Peterborough, after several substitutions by manager Darren Ferguson, began to step up a gear and get into the game; and with half an hour left to play the got an undeserved goal courtesy of a stunning free kick scored by Grant McCann.
With time to get back into the game Blues still pressed, but the chances they created just could not find the back of the net and they were left to rue their missed chances in the first half; where they should, and could, have been at least 3-0 to the good.

The game ended with a whimper, unable to find a winner and unable to secure another three points. Nevertheless, it was an overall encouraging display and the statement of intent made by Chris Hughton’s side is what we’ve been calling for: attacking play at every opportunity. If we carry on creating chances and playing this way, the goals – and the points – will keep on coming. With the fixtures coming thick and fast there's no let up for Blues; who entertain Burnley at St. Andrews tomorrow. Fresh from a 2-1 loss against Leeds, the Lancashire outfit will be looking to ruin Blues' unbeaten home record, where as Blues will be hoping to maintain their near-perfect home form, where they have only conceded two league goals all season.


Full Time: BLUES 1-1 Peterborough United
Goal Scorers: King (22) McCann (61)
Star Man: David Murphy. A rare league start for Murphy who, in most fans' opinions, should be starting ahead of Liam Ridgewell. I agree. His none-stop running and the attacking threat he poses, as well as his defending, means Hughton will have a tough decision to make when Ridgewell returns.
Next Up: Burnley at home - Championship

The Magic Of Europe

I guess they call it a game of two halves. Seemingly down and out after going behind by two goals to nil in the first half; Blues’ character and determination ensured they hit the ground running in the second half and pulled off another historic comeback against Club Brugge KV.

Under the kosh for the majority of the first half, Blues lacked creativity and this allowed Brugge to play their fast-paced passing game. In fact, the first time any real noise could be heard from the Birmingham fans was in the 23rd minute of the match; which saw both sets of fans unite once again in a fitting tribute to Francois Sterchele; Brugge’s up and coming star who sadly passed away a few years previous.

No defence splitting passes nor Brazil-esque possession stats were being created by Birmingham last night and as the game wore on it was clear that Brugge were getting closer and closer to their opening goal, which they finally found just five minutes before half time. A corner was swung into the box and Thomas Meunier was given enough time to control the ball with his chest and let it drop before he volleyed it past Colin Doyle in the Blues net. Lackluster defending and failure to close the Brugge midfielder down meant Blues were chasing the game. And it was about to become even more of an uphill struggle.

Blues’ response to the opening goal was to go all-out attack. Unfortunately, this meant they left themselves open at the back, and a quick counter attack by Brugge saw Vadis Odjidja slide the ball into the path of Joseph Akpala – scorer of Brugges’ goal in the reverse fixture in Belgium – who slotted the ball home even though he looked to be offside.

Blues’ European dreams seemed to be falling on deaf ears, but the second forty-five produced an incredible fight back by Chris Hughton’s men. Adam Rooney, pairing Nikola Zigic up front, had an early chance to get his team back into the game early on and the Blues attacking threat took off at a canter from there on out. As the crowd sensed a Blues comeback, the team grew in confidence; with Jean Beausejour and David Murphy working tirelessly down the left wing and the former getting the goal that brought Blues back into the game. Wade Elliott’s cross found Zigic who controlled the ball but failed to get a shot off after a block from ex-Baggie Ryan Donk, and to Blues’ luck the ball fell straight to Beausejour who sweetly struck the ball home to produce an emphatic roar from the crowd. Game on.

Brugge, knocked a little in confidence by the early second half goal, were now on the back foot and it was Birmingham who were taking charge of proceedings. Spurred on by the deafening crowd, Blues surged forward at every opportunity, and free kicks from Elliott and Murphy almost produced equalising goals but fell just short of the target.

Hughton made a triple substitution, bringing on Chris Burke, Marlon King and Chris Wood; which turned out to be inspiring and influential changes. Both teams were now attacking with full force but defending in numbers, and another Blues chance came from an unlikely source. Guirane N’Daw found the ball at his feet 30 yards out and, being urged to shoot by the St. Andrews faithful, unleashed a fierce shot which looked to be going in had it not been for a brilliant fingertip save from Vladan Kujovic.

This fired up the fans in the stand further who sensed an equalizer coming, and they only had to wait a few minutes for the inevitable. Beausejour made a run into the box and was brought down in a seemingly soft challenge. Nevertheless, the referee made no mistake in pointing firmly to the spot: a deafening cheer went up, and Marlon King confidently picked the ball up and walked over to the penalty spot. After discussions between the Brugge players and the referee, King calmly stepped up to take the penalty and expertly slotted home to send the Blues fans into delirium once again. With Brugge shaken, Blues pressed on in search of a winner but even with the attacking threat of Burke and the firepower of Wood they couldn’t manage to find another goal. Nevertheless, coming back from 2-0 down to draw and pick up another valuable point in Europe feels like a win in what was another special night at St. Andrews.

With two games left to play Blues now find themselves on equal points (7) with both Brugge and Braga, but second in the table because of Uefa’s head to head ruling. With a tough test at Braga left to play Blues will have to hope to pick up at least a point before heading into the last game, a home fixture against Maribor, while hoping for the best result possible out of the other final group H game; Brugge v Braga.

But Chris Hughton will surely be able to inspire his team in the next two fixtures, and after picking up a much-deserved October Manager of the Month award, both him and his players will be going into both games full on confidence, and full of hope that they can pull off another two remarkable results to secure a couple more games of European football at least.


Full Time: BLUES 2-2 Club Brugge KV
Goal Scorers: Meunier (39) Akpala (44) Beausejour (55) King (74)
Star Man: Jean Beausejour for his countless runs down the left hand side, his work to win freekicks (no matter how easily he seemed to go down!) his crosses and most importantly his goal which sparked the Blues comeback
Next Up: Reading away - Championship

King Power

Money talks in football, and Leicester have a considerable amount of cash at their disposal meaning their Summer spending list is something to boast about. The addition of Kasper Schmeichel, Matt Mills and Neill Danns amongst others means Leicester are one of the favourites for promotion this season. Compare the East Midlands outfit to ‘Bosman Blues,’ only spending money on two players in the transfer window, we’re talking Manchester City versus Wigan, but in smaller, different terms, of course. But you gather the jist of the comparison: financially, very far apart. In terms of the team sheet, Leicester’s squad has a list of recognisable names and talent. But money cannot always buy you success.

Yesterday, other than witnessing a very uneventful first half, I saw a team with masses of talent and potential produce, well, not much at all. I was impressed with Blues’ second half performance, but moreover I was disappointed with the Leicester display. They created little and when presented with chances they seemed not to know how to finish them. With players like Mills, the captain, losing his cool so easily, and their lack of invention, you can see why they aren’t leading the chase for promotion just yet.

But that’s not a complaint from me. It allowed Blues to flourish, and as such, win somewhat comfortably. The penalty, albeit a soft decision on reflection, was the starting point and the catalyst for Leicester’s downfall: they lost their heads, and didn’t pull themselves together afterwards. Marlon King duly slotted away the resulting penalty how, I believe, penalties should always be taken. No nonsense.

Kicking on from there we had a number of brilliant chances to kill the game off (although Matt Mills’ sending off pretty much confirmed that anyway) with the most prominent being Chris Wood’s one on one which he agonizingly shot straight at Schmeichel in the Leicester net. However minutes from the end of the game he made up for the miss in a really enjoyable move. The move began with Keith Fahey, who had an encouraging game alongside Morgaro Gomis, and he picked out King who and played a brilliant ball into the path of Wood, making up for his earlier miss by taking it round to keeper to secure victory and to keep his goal scoring tally way ahead of that of his team mates.

On reflection that win was important. Firstly we maintained our home form which, in any league, is paramount especially when [promotion is the primary focus of the season. But it also must have installed confidence into the side, especially ahead of our Europa League tie later this week. To beat a Leicester side with such a wealth of talent and an ex-England manager at the helm is something to be proud of. It was a brilliant day at the office for Blues, with some great individual performances and contributions to boot. It's refreshing to have another game where we can take so positives out of the performance; not to mention the Barcelona-esque passing in the final few minutes. Ole!

As a footnote I'd also like to say how moving the tribute to Harry Moseley was. It really brought a tear to the eye; he was a very imspirational and brave boy who will be missed by so many people. Please add to the 500 million plus he made whilst he was with us and keep his memory alive by purchasing a Help Harry Help Others bracelet or donate by clicking HERE. Thank you.



Full Time: BLUES 2-0 Leicester City
Goal Scorers: King (50), Wood (84)
Star Man: Jean Beausejour. The catalyst of many Blues attacks, but like Chris Hughton said during the week, there is more to come from him. I want to see that too because he's one of our best players as it is. Chris Burke, Pablo Ibanez and Marlon King also put in impressive, tireless performances.
Next Up: Club Brugge KV away - Europa League Group Stage

Battling Blues

An intelligent defensive display saw Blues pick up a vital away point in their quest to survive another season in the Premier league and avoid the ever-present relegation trap door.

Blues began the game the brighter side, with Jerome heading close early on. There was bad news for both teams in the space of a minute as Arteta pulled up with a hamstring injury and a few seconds later Bentley signalled that something was wrong and he too had to come off - David Murphy coming on the field to replace him.

After a little pressure from Everton - namely a shot from Beckford which was saved by Ben Foster - Blues broke against the run of play and Jordan Mutch's expert cross found the head of Jean Beausejour who netted for the second time in two game.


Everton regained momentum after Blues look the lead and had chances of their own. Beckford had the perfect chance to equalise when the ball fell to him, however an air shot from him and some desperate defending from Carr and Foster saved Blues from conceding.

Eventually, Everton did manage to find the back of the net. Stephen Carr conceded a soft corner after being under pressure, and Osman swum the ball into the box. Cameron Jerome's failed clearance then set up Heitinga who let rip a fierce shot which found its way past Lee Bowyer on the line to make it one all just ten minutes before the break.


With Premier League games never without a contriversioal moment nowadays, this game saw referee Peter Walton book Jordon Mutch. With no yellow card. Instaid, he lifted his arm to the air, gesturing to Mutch that he was in fact being booked. Improvisation at its finest.

The second half started as the first half had ended, with the home side in ascendancy. As Birmingham struggled to get a foot hold in the game, Everton piled on the pressure - but for all the time on the ball they had, they couldn't get into goal scoring positions of any sort to convert that possession in to a much needed goal.

That was all thanks to the Blues defence who put their bodies on the line and their head in the way of everything in order to stop Everton from scoring and to prevent themselves dropping back into the relegation zone - as a point would see them leapfrog West Ham.


Although Blues swam against the tide for much of the second forty-five, they had have some chances. Jordon Mutch, who had an impressive game, let rip a 25 yard shot which went wide of Howard's post - and just before that he had been at the other end of the pitch, blocking a shot from Saha inside the box.

The battling performance from Blues, who absorbed all the pressure Everton put on them, made sure that they went away with a point which from an away game against a strong and professional side in Everton is a great point.

It's Bolton in the FA Cup on Saturday now and although in the quarter finals, I wouldn't blame McLeish if he rested some key players, especially with a lot of the team injured after their victorious Carling Cup exploits this season - after all, the league is our bread and butter, and our next Premier League game is a six pointer away to Wigan.

Full Time: Everton 1-1 Birmingham City

Back to earth with a bang

A complete and utter come down from the jubilation we felt last weekend; today we were outclassed and outplayed by a determined Baggies team who, quite simply, wanted it more than us.

The only changes made were ones forced upon McLeish - Ferguson, Gardner, Jiranek and Zigic (although named as a substitute) through injury. Blues were welcomed onto the pitch by rapturous applause from the fans inside St. Andrews, with each player getting the reception they deserved as their name was read out.

It was West Brom who started the brighter though but for all the possession they had in the first half, the more clear cut chances came to Blues; with Cameron Jerome first shooting just wide and then looking on to see his header go just past the post.

Playing in Barry Ferguson's position, Keith Fahey made a good start; controlling the midfield like the Scot he replaced. Alongside him, Lee Bowyer was in all the right places, and Jean Beausejour, fresh after a great substitute appearance at Wembley, also played well. However the defence was Blues' downfall in the game as we failed to control that of West Brom's.


As the second half started it was the away side who made the first move, bringing Odemwingie on which subsequently led to the first goal of the derby, Mulumbu - who is from Africa, and apparently "better than Kaka" - took advantage of some clueless Blues defending and slotted the ball home. That didn't get Blues down though, and just a minute later they equalised. Bowyer did some excellent work on the by-line and slid a sharp cross into the box which met the foot of Beausejour, who couldn't miss, and it was all level at St. Andrews.


Bowyer then recieved a questionable yellow card and went missing somewhat in the game from then on. The Blues midfield then failed to gain control of the game, and James Morrison put the Baggies back into the lead with a fierce shot after some more defending that made it seem as if the Birmingham defence had only just met each other.

Try as they might, Blues couldn't get back into the game and a third goal from Paul Scharner killed the game and there was no way back for the Carling Cup Champions.

If there was one player that stood out today it was Stephen Carr, who at times bombed down the right with no support at all and still managed to cross the ball or find a pass. As for the rest, there was a lot to be desired - especially from David Bentley who had an off game today.

But, onwards and upwards. It was a kick up the backside after the highs of last Sunday, and as the relegation trap door is looming; the game midweek against Everton seems even more crucial now.

Full Time: Birmingham City 1-3 West Bromwich Albion

We seem to like the cups...

So we're 90 minutes from Wembley again after the comfortable victory against Sheffield Wednesday earlier this afternoon. 3-0 in the end but really it could and should have been more. Easy this cup lark, isn't it?!

An early break to kill the game almost instantly was just what a needed against a Sheffield Wednesday side that has been poor of late and not won since way back in December. Capitalising on this was Jean Beausejour who scored his first goal in a Blues shirt after just five minutes of the match, side-footing the ball expertly into the net.

It was clear soon after that we were the team in control. Early goals are always vital to a teams performance as we witnessed earlier on in the week, on Tuesday against Newcastle. Fahey and Hleb created a good partnership and understanding in midfield together; both staking a claim for inclusion in the Wembley squad next Sunday.


The second goal of the afternoon came curtsy of a brilliant through ball by the man I just mentioned Hleb, who passed the ball to Martins on the left. He ran like a train through the defence and slid the ball into the back of the net with only eleven minutes off the game gone. The famous back flips were unveiled and Blues were now in cruise control to sail onto victory and through to the quarter finals.

Hleb really was showing his Premier League quality, as were the rest of the team, but it was especially unfortunate to see Alexander unfairly tackled and taken off through injury after only 20 minutes of play. Bentley came on as a substitute for him, which is a big indication of how far we have come if we can take Hleb off and bring Bentley on in an F.A Cup fifth round tie against Sheffield Wednesday! Albeit that both of them are on loan...

Blues had a handful of chances in the rest of the half, with Fahey's excellent free kick being palmed away, and the most clear cut chance being when Bowyer picked up the ball on the left and drove in a shot which seemed to him Cameron Jerome, who was unable to get control of the ball before it bounced passed the post. And Blues went in at half time with a comfortable two goal lead in a game they were dominating.


The second half started like the first, and Blues made a substitution which saw Phillips come on in place of Jerome. The game was all but over just 10 minutes later. A corner from Fahey was driven into the box almost on the goal line, where Bowyer seemed to come behind the keeper - much to the surprise of the Wednesday players! - and guide the ball into the path of David Murphy who fired in from close range.

Obafemi Martins almost got a brace after a smart Bentley run and a great cross clipped Martins on his heal and somehow managed to go just over the bar! But Blues were already in the driving seat and the miss wasn't too costly.


Although the away side piled on a late spell of pressure, they never really threatened Colin Doyle who seemed comfortable and assured all game and did everything that was asked of him. In fact, all the players played really well today and it was a great game to watch. Stephen Carr hardly ran all game but he didn't need to; Parnaby and Johnson were a solid partnership in defence and Murphy also had a good game with a goal to his name too. The midfield of Bowyer, Bentley, Fahey and Beausejour controlled the game with Fahey again playing a great central role as he did in the previous round against Coventry City.

Roger Johnson was substituted for Jordon Mutch near the end of the game, much to the disappointment of the centre half (we all know what he's like!) It's great to see a player so determined not to be substituted, but he's a player we need for the final and a silly injury or a stupid sending off was not something we wanted.

So, it was a comfortable win against quite a poor Sheffield Wednesday side. We didn't pick up too many threatening injuries and hopefully Hleb will be fit for the bench for the final next Sunday. All that's left to say now is well done today Blues, and I'll see you all at Wembley!

Full Time: Birmingham City 3-0 Sheffield Wednesday

The Masters of the Comeback

The game seemed like a real anti-climax at first. It's not that not any of us wanted to lose, it's just that the game seemed like it didn't matter as much as everything else going on, i.e. a relegation battle in the league and trip to Wembley in the Carling Cup. Nevertheless, McLeish fielded quite an attacking team, showing he was determined to win the tie and keep up Blues' good record in both domestic cups this season.

Surprisingly we started the better side, which isn't something we see too often. Just a few minutes in and Bentley bombed down the left hand side and whipped in a ball which Zigic met and headed agonisingly wide. Kevin Phillips, getting a rare start, also came very close to giving Blues the lead; but it was the away side who drew first blood in the tie. Marlon King picked up the ball on the right and with Ridgewell lying on the floor with a head injury, he was unmarked and able to have a great shot on goal which sailed past the Blues keeper Doyle and sent the 6,000 travelling Coventry fans crazy.

The Championship side found their feet in the game then, and began to take more control in the tie despite Blues still posing that great attacking threat with Bentley and Beausejour running the wings. Coventry's second of the game came thanks to a McSheffrey corner, a strong Richard Wood header and some questionable Blues defending.

But even at 2-0 down you felt that Blues were going to at least take the tie to a replay. It's just the Blues way. And Bentley brought the home side right back into it when 25 yards out he unleashed an unstoppable shot that looped over the head of goalkeeper Westwood and stunned the rest of the Coventry team. Half time, 2-1, and game most definitely on.


The turn of the half saw Blues completely go for it. You sensed an equaliser straight away, and it almost came courtesy of Beausejour; after a signature ball into the box by Bentley, all Beausejour had to do was head it in from a few yards out, but the ball skimmed off his head and went agonisingly wide of the post. However, this didn't stop Blues, and with 67 minutes gone of the game Nikola Zigic did some superb battling on the right hand side and was able to get the ball to Hleb before being knocked to the floor. Hleb took the ball on and crossed into the area and his pin-point ball found Parnaby who was on hand to equalise for the home side; finishing off a really good move by Blues.


On the up now, Blues just kept on attacking. Kevin Phillips had numerous shots on target throughout the game yet couldn't find the back of the net... that was until the 74th minute when he popped up with the winning goal. After being denied by Westwood, Blues won a corner, and when the ball landed at Phillips' feet in the area, you could have put money on him finishing: and he did. 3-2 Blues, and try as they might the Coventry players just couldn't find a way back.

Hleb had a great game in midfield and although he over did it at times, his attacking play was brilliant and he was a great asset to the side today. As was evergreen Kevin Phillips, who even managed to play the whole ninety minutes, getting into key positions and then popping up with the winning goal as well. The whole team seemed very assured today, and despite going two goals down never really looked like they were in trouble. In the end, it could have been 4 or 5-2; It was a great team performance second half. Well done Blues.

Full Time: Birmingham City 3-2 Coventry City

We're on our way

With the team still high on a rare win away on Tuesday, they were looking to pick up another in the FA Cup at Millwall today - and they did just that! Changes were made with Foster given a well deserved rest, Scott Dann made captain and the rest of the defence being dropped to make way for Parnaby, Murphy and Jiranek. The midfield was attacking with Gardner, Mutch, Beausejour and Hleb starting, and Derbyshire partnering Zigic in attack.

The players in the team all had a point to prove, but it was the home side who started better, but they weren't able to convert the chances they had. They paid for their lack of clinical finishing when Blues went on a counter attack in the 17th minute with Beausejour sliding the ball through to Derbyshire who calmly chiped the ball into the net from a wide angel - a top finish from a striker who deserved his chance.


After the setback, Millwall continued to press, but the Blues defence coped reasonably well with what was thrown at them, and again Millwall were made to rue their missed chances when Blues got their second of the game: Beausejour again helped in the making, as Derbyshire was brought down on his run towards goal after a neat ball through from the Chilean. Murphy stepped up and beautifully looped the ball over the wall and into the net to give the away side a comfortable lead.

Blues were playing with a aura of confidence now and more chances came their way. A Gardner free-kick was parried away and Derbyshire almost got onto the loose ball before it was blocked by a Millwall defender. The shape of the Blues midfield was causing the Lions the most problems; Hleb went wherever he pleased and kept the ball moving, Gardner's surging runs forward gave a real threat to the Blues attack, Mutch's distribution and eye for space was key, and Beausejour had one of his best games in a Blues shirt, always going forward and tracking back when needed.

Milwall got back into the game as the half wore on, and looking for a response got a couple of corners and a handful of chances; with James Henry's shot from far out nearly getting his team back into the game, and an offside goal as well - deemed the correct decision after replays were shown.


But Blues punished the home side again just before half time. Matt Derbyshire was in the right place at the right time once again to finish calmly after a 1 on 1 from a piercing through ball from Gardner. The away side finished the half 3 goals to the good and oozing with confidence.

With Millwall not only looking for a response but now desperately needing one, they came out the blocks quick and had a succession of chances. A penalty was awarded to the home team which was labelled by commentators as "very soft", but maybe luck was on our side as the penalty as struck poorly and Maik Taylor was able to save it, and it was cleared for a corner, which prompted a goal-mouth frenzy, with shots galore and the ball finally being cleared off the line and away to safety. Clearly, it was just not Millwall's day.

With Beausjour searing for the goal that he deserved,it was clear that the fourth goal was not very far away at all. But much to the Chilean's disappointment, it wasn't him that scored it. Fahey, who was substituted of in place of Hleb, put in a brilliant cross on his wrong foot and Jerome who had just came on for Zigic headed the ball home; a brilliant day at the office for Blues. It didn't stop Millwall trying though, and as fans headed for the exits, they got a deserved consolation from Schofield in extra time.

This will do our confidence the world of good going into Tuesday's important Carling Cup semi-final first leg: two away wins on the bounce, we couldn't possibly make it three, could we?

Full Time: Millwall 1-4 Birmingham City

A little bit of luck and a lot of character

Handball? Maybe. Foul? Could have been. Offside? Possibly. Absolutely brilliant? Yes yes and yes again. Once again our never say die attitude and not knowing when to give up paid off, and we got a really, really big point tonight.

With the irony of Manchester United fans labelling us cheats, I've found it hard to construct thoughts into a proper blog post because I'm laughing so much. It really is brilliant isn't it; in fact if it was offside, it it was a foul and if it was handball, I'm glad. Actually, I hope it was all of them because it would make it even funnier. I think they call it karma...

I wouldn't say either team truly 'deserved' anything but really no one 'deserves' anything out of a game unless they play the other team off the park. Man United started well, which was to be expected; even as the home team you have to expect a team like United to come at you. But Blues didn't just gift United the ball and let them do what they pleased with it, those players actually fought for the ball and for each other, and didn't stop until the final whistle - something which was missing from the previous game against Wolves.


In fact, everything that was missing in the blip in the previous game was back again. The desire was clear in all the players and they stepped their game up a notch, like we always do when the big boys come to town. Ben Foster had a little something to prove after not having the best of times at Man United; and with a few good saves and a solid performance, he left the field with a smug smile on his face.

The Blues defence were again rock solid, and the only times they were torn apart were for Berbatov's goal and for a spell after United's goal when they had the stuffing knocked out of them a little. Other than that, it was akin to the shut out against Chelsea a few weeks ago, with Roger Johnson and Scott Dann winning plenty of balls in the air, coping well with an off the pace Wayne Rooney, and Ridgewell and Carr doing a superb job too.

The midfield really gave it their all, and Bluenose Craig Gardner could have even given his team the lead in the second half, when a short corner was played back to Bowyer, whose blocked shot found Gardner but he could only manage a shot straight at Van Der Sar. Barry Ferguson ran the show again and picked up man of the match, which is getting quite boring now actually! He drives the team forward and will pick out a pass no one else could see, as well as picking out the easy passes to keep the game flowing, in short, he's just brilliant. Jean Beausejour also known as Dave - for ease - got a start, and had a great game. He's someone we need: a player that can beat a man, a player with pace, and a player with a good cross on him, and hopefully last night gave him a bit of practise. I was impressed.


Although Berbatov's goal knocked it out of Blues a little, you can't fault their attitude. Heads dropped a little, but the desire was still there and those players kept on pushing until the final whistle, where they got a reward for all their hard graft; and we have Roger Johnson, Nikola Zigic, Lee Bowyer and a little bit of luck to thank for that.


Maybe it was handball, it could have been a foul leading up to the goal, and it probably was offside, but throughout the game I was thinking "are we ever going to get any luck?" and we may have go tit in the 89th minute... and about bloody time too.

With another big game against a top team Saturday, a repeat of this performance wouldn't go amiss, and after all; anything can happen at St. Andrews (maybe sometimes with a little bit of help from the officials).

Full Time: Birmingham Ciy 1-1 Manchester United

What a comeba... almost

It's the 'summarising-points-because-it's-tuesday-night-and-i'm-tired-(and weary)-blog-post' ...

1. Up until we came back - again - we were very poor indeed. We were simply not good enough. We weren't at the races. We were playing at 10 miles per hour and Stoke at 90. It was too similar to Saturday in that we let the opposition come on to us way too much. Last season we showed how well we play when we take control of the game and get a hold of the ball. We need to do that again.

2. We only get the belief when we go 2-0 down. Why?! Two goals down, especially away from home, is a mountain to climb! We may as well start to game two goals down the way were going - it started off as a light hearted joke last season against Everton when we got it back to 2-2. But then we did it again, and the more we do it, the less 'good' the comeback feels and the more serious the problem becomes.


3. Criticise Keith Fahey all you like, but when he came on he changed the game. He came on, sporting a nice little moustache, and was assertive, quick, and passed the ball around well. He got into great positions and his goal was as perfect as you like. The way he controlled it to the way he finished it was sublime - great way to score his first Premier League goal, too bad he couldn't celebrate it like he deserved to! Now give the guy a break.

4. Dave (aka Beausejour) was ineffective tonight. After what we've seen of him so far he does look promising, but he was off the pace tonight and needs to learn he doesn't have as much time on the ball in the Premier League. He will be a great player, I think most can see that, we just need to teach him how to be a great Premier League player.

5. We seem to have a knack of rounding off good goalkeepers and making them into great ones. Ben Foster was on top form tonight - and he needed to be - he puts his heart on his sleeve and gets stuck in there, much like the defence in front of him. He shows no fear in going to collect the ball, and although some of his kicks tonight and one time where he made the wrong decision and Fuller nearly scored, he was brilliant, and kept us in the game first half and at the start of the second half as well.


6. Craig Gardner. Where do I start with him? He had some brilliant shots tonight, namely the free-kick and the shot that was tipped over the bar just after we had got it back to 2-2. He shows something in the centre of midfield that Hleb doesn't show, and that's a real fight. It's all well and good Hleb doing the little flicks and tricks and the 'perfect passes' but when it comes down to it, sometimes you need someone who will just get their head down and drive forward on his own, and like Hleb, he can also pull off moments of magic where you just stand and stare in admiration. Thank you Aston Villa.

7. Credit has to go to Ricardo Fuller and his 100th goal in British football. It was a lovely solo run and a brilliant strike to finish it off. He is a well-rounded striker and a brilliant shooter of the ball, and you could do nothing but admire the goal he scored today. I almost applauded it but then I remembered he had just scored it against my team.


8. Pulis got what he wanted, then. I'd say Clattenburg had a decent game, but when Stoke called it, they got it. I'll say not much more on the matter other than managers do effect referees decisions, it's just normally the Wengers and Fergusons of this world that are the ones affecting them.

9. You can dress it up which ever way you like, but we certainly are in a relegation battle this season. No unbeaten runs, no 'invincibles', and unlike last season, no dead certs to g down. There are more than a handful of teams that could face the drop this season, and unfortunately it looks like we're one of them; but that doesn't mean we haven't got enough to beat the drop.

10. Well Blues, you did it again, although this time it didn't quite work. The next few games are extremely tough, but nothing is impossible in football. Nothing.

Full Time: Stoke City 3-2 Birmingham City

A year unbeaten...

Well, we did it; a whole calendar year unbeaten at home. Not exactly the way we wanted to do it though and it certainly doesn’t excuse how poor we were today.

The game throughout seemed to be played at a slow pace. In all fairness, no one looked too bothered about what was going on, or too bothered to actually pick up the pace and attack with much force.

Wigan had the best chance of the game in the first half through the greedy b--, I mean, through Charles N’Zogbia, whose shot was palmed over the bar by Ben Foster, who had a few good saves during the match, and was the busier goalkeeper of the two.

Cameron Jerome, the lone striker, had a few good chances; namely one near the end of the first half, when Al Habsi dropped the ball which then went between his legs before he managed to pick it up. Seeing the opposition goalkeeper as clumsy as this, we really should have pressured him more.

Blues lacked a lot of things today, but the thing they lacked most was pace. And passing. The game seemed to move at snails pace; the ball was dead on numerous occasions and no one seemed to want the ball or when they did, no one was moving for them to pass to.

The second half had nothing to boast about, other than a few chances for both the home side and the away side, with Wigan looking the more likely team to win it as the game came to a close. It was a frustrating day for the home side, who were even ironically cheering Zigic when he won the ball in the air – which he did all of about three times. For a 6ft8” bloke, he doesn’t use his height very well.

The only light at the end of a seemingly long tunnel was that when Beausejour came on he looked sharp. He can beat a man and that’s something we’ve desperately been looking for, for quite a while now; if I was Alex McLeish, I would start him next Saturday against Everton, and also start Derbyshire alongside Jerome.

Another point from the match; I hope the ‘McFadden hate brigade’ are feeling very sheepish right now. We miss him. A lot, in fact. Most people use him as a scapegoat, but they fail to realise how much he does for the team: not only his skill and ability to beat a man and put a cross in, but the amount of tracking back he does. We were caught on the break a lot today, and we really do miss him.

The 400 or so Wigan fans had something to cheer about as Craig Gardner was sent off for a tackle - which the Mark Clattenburg blew for five seconds after he’d let Craig Gardner play on. After missing clear handballs and tackles previous to this, the Blues fans started to get on the back of the ref, and chants of “you’re not fit to referee” rung round the stadium, while Gardner trudged off the pitch with his shirt in his hands.

That was the only issue of note that happened in the match. N’Zogbia and Clattenburg can flip a coin to decide who the most hated person at St. Andrews was this afternoon, and Blues can pick themselves up and start again. And quickly; another home gamer against bottom of the league Everton next weekend, and boy do both teams need a win.

Full Time: Birmingham City 0-0 Wigan Athletic

Craig Gardner: Five Minute Man... and the rest

Hleb must have wondered what he’d got himself in to at the weekend when he saw his new side lose 3-1 to relegation candidates and local rivals West Brom. The same could be said again when he walked out onto a pitch of just over 9,000 at St. Andrews last night, being used to crowds of much over 80,000 back in Spain.

At least the score didn’t replicate that of Saturdays, though, as Blues ran out comfortable 3-1 winners over their League 1 opposition MK Dons.

That ‘it’s going to be a long night’ feeling was felt by most in the opening ten minutes. That changed abruptly when Michel pulled up with a knee injury and was replaced by Craig Gardner.

That one man won the game for Blues, and rightly got Man of the Match. As soon as he came on, the game picked up pace, and three goals were scored in quick succession; Gardner fed a great ball to Beausejour who found Hleb who in turn calmly and brilliantly found the back of the net.

The second Blues goal came just minutes later, and it was Zigic who got his first goal in a Blues shirt, and it was Beausjour who provided the cross – who had a superb home debut.

Gardner got a well deserved goal of his own, again just moments later, with one of his trademark long-range shots. Within the space of five minutes, Craig Grdner had effectively won the game for Blues.

MK Dons would have been forgiven for rolling over and letting Blues walk all over them, but credit to them as they were resilient through out, and prevented ahy more Blues goals being scored in the second half, even with chances galore from players such as Derbyshire, Zigic and debutant Jiranek.

The Dons got a small consolation near the end of the game as Wlbraham slotted home with ten minutes left. However a consolation was all it was, as the home team went on to be 3-1 winners on the night, and book themselves a place in the last sixteen of the Carling Cup – where it starts to get exciting!

All the Blues players had a great game; particularly impressing were Hleb – it’s brilliant seeing him in a Blues shirt! Beausejour – he is already proving to be a great winger, even if it was only against lower league opposition. Fahey – who I thought had a good game in his favoured position of centre-midfield. Murphy – who now back from injury has played important parts in both the cup games so far, and of corse the man of the moment Craig Gardner – I think seeing him to us was the best thing Villa have ever done for us.

Full Time: Birmingham City 3-1 Milton Keynes Dons