Robins Left Flapping

Some may say that lightning never strikes twice. Bristol City maybe finding that out.

After a successful season last year, where they were only denied a place in the Premier League by Hull in the playoff final, they find themselves struggling in the bottom half of the Championship.

Gary Johnson will certainly have his work cut out as he tries to inspire his team. Dean Windass’ only goal in a 1-0 win at Wembley last May knocked the stuffing out of The Robins as their momentum did not carry into this campaign.

Poor individual performances and a lack of unity seem to be pinnacle to their failure.

The Bristol City Manager came out after the recent poor form and told BBC Radio Bristol: “They are an honest bunch. Obviously, we’re all disappointed together. We are together in what we’re trying to do.

“Individuals have got to get their games right and then hopefully the team will get their game right.”

City’s failure to win since their 1-0 victory over Southampton has showed a lack of solidarity and togetherness as their latest 2-0 defeat to the hands of a high flying Preston side did not help matters.

The table may say that they are only a mere two wins away from the playoffs but in retrospect terms it is a much greater divide.

The performers last year have not lived up to their potential this term, as players of the quality of Adriano Basso, Bradley Orr, Lee Trundle and Michael McIndoe have hardly reproduced that glittering form that saw them well last season.

Even the additions of Nicky Maynard and Stern John from Crewe and Southampton respectively have not made the impact for what the club were hoping. Maynard being the clubs top goal scorer with four goals. That is not enough to compete at the top end of the table.

Being beaten in the playoff final has not always been a bad omen. In recent times, only Leeds United have dropped right out of the picture when losing to Watford 3-0 back in 2006. Preston, West Ham United and West Brom have made relatively decent pushes the following term with West Ham and West Brom both being promoted.