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Norwich City missed the chance to forge ahead at the top of the Championship table last time out when they fell to a heavy 3-1 defeat at the hands of Preston North End. Despite a late Teemu Pukki strike, goals from Ben Davies, Paul Gallagher and Sean Maguire sealed the points for the home side.

Daniel Farke must inspire the Canaries to bounce back with a positive result against strugglers Bolton Wanderers on Saturday.

On the chalkboard

Alex Neil’s Preston side were able to take advantage of Norwich’s disjointed approach last time out. Farke’s outfit failed to apply the requisite focus and diligence to the task at hand and suffered a defeat as a result. Whilst they streamed forward in attack and were thwarted on numerous occasions by Preston goalkeeper Declan Rudd, the Canaries failed to defend effectively at the other end. 

Bolton edged closer to the Championship drop zone with defeat at home to Preston on Saturday. Check out Thogden's matchday vlog below...

Their performance lacked balance, as at times they charged forward without affording appropriate care for not leaving themselves exposed. The Lilywhites were utterly clinical, defended as a cohesive unit, and were therefore able to punish the title-chasers.

Back to basics

In order to get back on track, Norwich need to simplify things. For the approaching clash with Bolton, Norwich must focus on getting the simplest elements of their game right. If they do that, their technical superiority over Bolton ought to pay off.

Farke must recognise this need to get back to basics and make the necessary changes to the mentality of his squad. Failure to do so could result in the Canaries’ title bid derailing.