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View From The Town End: Norwich

Our latest view from the opposition comes from Little Norwich blogger Sam who fills us in our the Canaries ahead of their visit to the Madejski Stadium this weekend.

Julian Finney

How have you viewed Norwich's season so far?

There was a genuine sense of worry following the heavy defeats to Chelsea and Liverpool, but this was more due to the fact we hadn't picked up points from winnable games. West Ham and QPR at home were both very winnable but we came up short. This heaped the pressure on Hughton but his return of 7 points from the last 9, including the win over Arsenal, has us optimistic again.

What's been the reason for your recent upturn in results?

A lot of people put it down to the reintroduction of 'The Irish Messi' Wes Hoolahan, they might well be right but as good as Wes has been in recent weeks I am more inclined to put it down to Alex Tettey. The central midfielder is the definitive box to box player. His ability to both gain and retain possession has helped us immensely.

How do you see the season panning out?

At the start of the season I predicted a relegation fight and I still don't think we will be far from that. I am now more confident that there are worse teams than ourselves, certainly enough to see us survive for another year.

What have you made of Reading so far?

I see a few similar traits to our own season last year, we both have no out and out superstars and success will come through unity more than individual ability. The need for the first win cannot be overstated though. Its more than just the points, the confidence that will come from winning a game sets up your season. I must say I'm continuously impressed with Brian McDermott, I certainly get the feeling that whether you finish 20th or 10th you're in the right hands. I hope your new owner agrees.

Any particularly fond memories of Reading v Norwich?

Phil Mulryne's goal in 2004 that put us in pole position for promotion. The ball rebounded to him of referee Neale Barry's back and he finished brilliantly. That kind of luck confirmed what we didnt yet feel ready to believe, that we were going up.

And any bad ones?

2008/09, two late goals gave you a 2-0 win. The writing was on the wall quite early that season and we were relegated.

Who should Reading fans be worried about on Saturday?

Wes Hoolahan, given enough space he could be your undoing.

Anyone you're not looking forward to facing?

I was really hoping to avoid the man that changed the game last time we played you at the Madejski, but luckily Michael Oliver is officiating elsewhere. On a serious note I'm always impressed with Noel Hunt, a very underrated player.

Score prediction?

Head says score draw, 2-2
Heart says 1-3 City

Good luck for the rest of the season, hope we both stay up.

Thanks again to Sam and you can follow him on twitter @littlenorwich