Norwich City Maintain Momentum as Ante Crnac Shines in Championship Campaign
Norwich City are enjoying a strong run of form in the Championship, with Saturday’s emphatic home victory over Luton Town moving them within five points of the play-off positions.
The Canaries had endured a challenging spell in early November, suffering three consecutive defeats against Cardiff City, Sheffield Wednesday, and Bristol City. However, they halted their slump with a 2-2 draw against fellow play-off contenders West Brom after the international break.
That point at the Hawthorns appeared to restore Norwich’s confidence, as they followed it up with a dominant 6-1 demolition of Plymouth Argyle. Manager Johannes Hoff Thorup’s side closed the month with another impressive display, defeating Luton 4-2.
Crnac Steps Up Amid Norwich’s Injury Woes
The highlight of Saturday’s victory was a standout performance from Ante Crnac, who delivered two goals and an assist. The Croatian Under-21 international’s contributions eased concerns about the absence of the prolific Josh Sargent, sidelined until the new year with a groin injury.
Despite boasting the league’s top scorer in Borja Sainz and leading the division with 35 goals in 18 matches, Norwich have felt the effects of Sargent’s injury. This issue was exacerbated by the departure of academy product Adam Idah to Celtic in the summer.
However, Crnac’s recent performances suggest he is more than capable of filling the void. With three goals in his last two matches, including one in the 6-1 win over Plymouth, Crnac is proving his worth. Before this resurgence, his only other goal this season came in a 1-1 draw with Stoke City in October.
A Promising Run of Fixtures
Crnac’s form could not come at a better time for Norwich, who face two favorable fixtures against teams with defensive vulnerabilities. First, they visit QPR, currently in the relegation zone with 26 goals conceded despite a recent three-game unbeaten run. Next, they travel to Portsmouth, who sit bottom of the table with 30 goals conceded.
With four goal contributions in his last two outings, Crnac now has four goals and one assist from 16 appearances this season. These upcoming matches provide a golden opportunity for the 20-year-old to continue his strong form and solidify his role in the team’s push for a top-six finish.
Norwich may no longer regret Idah’s departure, as Crnac appears poised to thrive in Sargent’s absence and help drive the Canaries’ play-off ambitions.
