Norwich City 0-1 Bristol City: Robins win increases pressure on Manning

Manning, who led Bristol City to the play-offs last season, insisted he was not feeling sorry for himself in the build-up to the game despite his team’s poor start to the season.

He made four changes, with midfielder Jeffrey Schlupp making only his second league start since his move from Crystal Palace, while the Robins recalled Ross McCrorie into the starting XI in place of Sykes.

Scott Twine fired an early effort just over for the Robins, who won last seasons corresponding game 2-0 under Manning, and they came even closer when he found Neto Borges, who cut in from the left and hit the outside of the post with a curling effort.

Although Norwich had the majority of the possession, with Oscar Schwartau heading wide from Stacey’s cross, the visitors continued to offer a threat on the counter, forcing Kovacevic to beat away a shot from Emil Riis.

The Bosnian was called into action again after the break as he prevented McCrorie’s left-foot shot from finding the top corner, while Marcondes’ effort shortly after at the other end was superbly saved by Manchester United loanee Vitek.

Kovacevic was in action again to deny Zak Vyner but Gerhard Struber’s side took the lead when Mehmeti cut back onto his right foot and found Riis who glanced a header into the path of Sykes to finish first time.

Mehmeti saw a shot deflected wide as they pushed for a second, but it took Vitek’s save from Stacey to secure their third away victory of the season.

Defeat saw Norwich drop to 20th, and was greeted by boos and calls for sporting director Ben Knapper to go.

They have now not won for six matches, and will be away to Derby County on Tuesday evening, with sixth-placed Bristol City at home to Southampton.