Birmingham City's ability to grind out results is developing, according to a supporter's voice following their latest Championship win. The Blues came from behind to secure a 2-1 victory at Derby County's Pride Park on Saturday, a result that moves them to 11th place with 10 points from their opening seven games.
Kym Smith, a contributor to Birmingham Hospital Radio, pointed to the character shown by the team. "Hear and read more from Kym Smith on Birmingham Hospital Radio," she said.
Bobby Clark had put the hosts ahead in the 40th minute, but the response was immediate. Carlos Vicente equalised just two minutes later with a diving header, assisted by Liam Millar. The winner arrived in the 63rd minute when Paik Seung-ho found the net, again from a Millar pass. The match saw Birmingham finish with a defensive shape, fielding seven defenders to see out the three points after Derby's Henrik Meister suffered an injury that led to lengthy added time.
Midfielder Jhon Solis was substituted after an hour, while striker Luis Vazquez missed a close-range chance. The win continues a patchy but promising recent run of form, which reads two wins, two draws and one loss from the last five outings. You can review the team's upcoming schedule on our fixtures page.
The victory was also a poignant occasion, with Derby supporters joining Birmingham fans in remembering young Blues follower Paul Pike, who passed away earlier this year. Attention now turns to a tough test at St Andrew's this Saturday, where Birmingham host third-placed Middlesbrough. The Blues will be looking to avenge a 3-1 home defeat from the last meeting in March. Patrick Roberts remains sidelined for the clash, and the full squad list is available on our squad page.
Further reading: bbc.com
