Although Bristol City still remain an outside bet to finish in the top six this season (thus qualifying for the play-offs), the two results achieved by the Reds this week won't have done their chances any harm whatsoever.
The style of Brian Tinnion's managerial technique as boss this season can be described as at the very least to have been erratic. More key changes ensued ahead of last Saturday's game at Colchester United.
The big gun's returned as Tinnion looked to see a big improvement in City's previous poor form. Luke Wilkshire, Danny Coles and Tommy Doherty all started despite Tinnion stating publicly that he'd listen to transfer offers for both Coles and Doherty. In addition, their was a debut given to 17 year old Dave Cotterill on the right-wing and youngster Scott Brown made his second start in midfield. Both players impressed immensely as City cruised to a 2-0 victory over the U's at Layer Road. City were dominant throughout, particularly in a scintillating first half performance despite failing to score.
However, the Reds remained patient and after the break both strikers Steve Brooker and Leroy Lita bagged the all important goals. Tinnion kept his faith in the club's youth policy by blooding youngsters Cole Skuse and Scott Golbourne into their first senior debuts for City as late substitutes. Golbourne is the cousin of former City defender Matt Hill (who left City for Preston NE last month) and at the age of just 16 has already represented England at under 17 level.
Three days after the Red's Layer Road triumph, out-of-form Oldham Athletic were the visitors to Ashton Gate. Scott Brown and Dave Cotterill both kept their places in the starting line-up and again impressed as City ran out comfortable 5-1 victors. Leroy Lita got the ball rolling for City by scoring twice in the opening 23 minutes to take his ever growing tally to 23 goals for the season.
On the stroke of half-time Aussie midfielder Luke Wilkshire scored City's third after rounding the 'keeper to score his ninth of the season. Just seven minutes into the second half and City had made it 4-0 via big striker Steve Brooker. The former Port Vale man finished an excellent run and precise cross from Cotterill. Oldham did score a consolation goal from a corner five minutes later.
City continue to concede seemingly all of their goals from poor organisation at set pieces. The rout was completed in the final minute when Oldham defender Guy Branston put the ball in his own net following a cross from Scott Brown. Tomorrow (3pm) City are playing at Ashton Gate again and lowly Blackpool are the visitors. City have won their last five league games against the Seasiders at Ashton Gate and City picked up a 1-1 draw at Bloomfield Road earlier this season. 'Pool are sure to be a tougher proposition than woeful Oldham.
They boast a handy away record, some very good players and are on fairly good form. A third win on the trot for City and maybe that opportunity of a play-off place isn't completely out of the question.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article