Stoke City player ratings v Norwich as Manhoef strikes and Johansson delights.

Stoke City and Norwich City shared the points at the Bet365 Stadium on Saturday, due to Million Manhoef’s goal. Million Manhoef scored a superb equaliser on his return to the starting lineup to help Stoke City get another point against the threatening Norwich City at the Bet365 Stadium on Saturday.

Manhoef curled home on the stroke of half-time, only two minutes after Ante Crnac had put the Canaries ahead, finally breaching Viktor Johansson’s goal, who had previously done an excellent job of keeping the visitors out. Stoke started off well. Wouter Burger sent a brilliantly weighted ball over the top for Tom Cannon to race onto, and he tested stand-in goalkeeper George Long early on. Cannon subsequently had a close-range shot stopped after being found by fellow loanee Andrew Moran, but Norwich took control of the game after that.

Indeed the hosts were mightily grateful for Johansson in goal, who denied Marcelino Nunez from close range with a terrific reactionary save. He then kept out Canaries captain Kenny McLean, too, when he powered a header goalward from a corner. Nunez and Burger were both forced off for different injury issues, before the goals arrived before half time.

Norwich’s opening goal was well worked, if not fortunate; they moved the ball from the left of the penalty area to the right. When Anis Slimane spotted Borja Sainz, he took aim, but his strike hit teammate Josh Sargent square in the back and ricocheted into the path of teammate Crnac, who finished well. At that point, the Potters might have walked towards halftime. Instead, they responded quickly and excellently. While Cannon couldn’t get to Ben Wilmot’s centre, Stoke recycled the ball, and Manhoef gathered on the right side of the penalty area before performing his usual cut inside and finishing sweetly.

The second half was goalless but entertaining; Stoke could have won it with half chances from Moran and Koumas, and if Manhoef had measured his pass on the breakaway better when the hosts attempted to hit back from a Canary corner, Narcis Pelach’s men could have taken all three points – at the expense of his former employers. Still, there was a lot to appreciate, and despite the absence of seasoned Sam Gallagher, who is out injured for the foreseeable future, there is an intriguing new generation of attack-minded talent emerging and gelling following their transfer window acquisitions.

Stoke City player ratings versus Norwich Johansson (8*)

Norwich was kept at bay by excellent reaction saves from Nunez and McLean. Overall, he was very dependable, the safe pair of hands you want behind you as a defender, comfortable collecting aerial balls and making solid punching selections when necessary. Wilmot 7 In the first half, I almost found Cannon while setting up a delivery from the right byline. He was full of enthusiasm and eager to move forward when given the opportunity. When necessary, a heartfelt performance putting one’s body on the line. Rose 7

In the first half, he executed one brilliantly timed challenge – which was much required – on Norwich talisman Borja Sainz, whom Stoke generally kept quiet. Ruffled the Spaniard’s feathers in order to disrupt him. Gibson 7 A moving afternoon for Gibson, who reconnected with former employers and teammates. Dictated to his teammates in the back-line – remember, they were up against an assault that had scored 12 goals in four games prior to today – and put up a solid performance. Stevens 7 An experienced defender was back in the starting lineup here. One wonderful flick over Sargent’s head while facing his own goal under duress displayed that experience. A solid display. Burger 6

Began the game brightly, clipping a ball over the top for Cannon to create the first opportunity. Forced off before the interval, just as Norwich had made the breakthrough. Bae Jun-ho 7. Set-pieces worried Long in the Norwich goal, particularly in the second half. He had to put in a lot of work when Norwich was dominant, but he was adorable in tight places, especially when producing for Manhoef. Moran 7

Brought genuine energy and zest to Stoke’s offensive approach, charging forward from deeper positions to join in attacks. Long made an excellent save on a fizzed effort at goal. There’s lots to like. Koumas 7. Supporters here praised his willingness and determination, as well as his courage in placing his body in harm’s path on multiple occasions. His working relationships with his teammates are always developing. Manhoef 7 Won a tussle with fellow technician Borja Sainz to surprise the home supporters in the second half, following up his stunning first-half equaliser. Tired in the second half, he squandered a few good chances for himself and his teammates. Cannon 6

Stoke had a real focus point in someone who Manhoef, Moran, and Koumas could build off of. Made runs, won headers, worked hard as the first line of defence, and dropped deep to assist his teammates when they were out of possession. Today’s performance was sincere, with no goal glut. Substitutes Thompson (for Burger 45): 6 At the end of the first half, he came on as a last-minute replacement for Burger. He played an important role, bringing steadiness to a deeper portion of the pitch.
Vidigal (For Koumas 85)

Replacements not used: Bonham, Phillips, Tchamadeu, Bocat, Seko, Tezgel, Ennis. Norwich City starting lineup: Long, Fisher (Stacey 79), Duffy, Cordoba (Chrisene 79), Doyle, Nunez (Schwartau 43), McLean, Slimane (Marcondes 65), Crnac (Forson 65), Sainz, and Sargent Subs not used: Mair, Hanley, Forsyth, and Gordon. GOALS Stoke – Manhoef 45, Norwich – Crnac 43.

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