MAKE YOURSELF A HERO – JOHNSON
Bristol City Fc
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3RD 2017
Lee Johnson says his players have the chance to make themselves heroes in tomorrow’s Severnside derby with Cardiff City (12noon kick-off).
The City head coach once scored in a 3-0 victory over the Bluebirds at Ashton Gate, while two members of his staff have fired famous goals against the South Wales club.
In 2003/04 Brian Tinnion scored in both league derby fixtures, while Scott Murray’s 2001 brace at Ninian Park is forever remembered by City supporters, not just because it was part of a 3-1 victory on Welsh soil, but as much for his famous celebration in front of the Bob Bank Terrace.
Speaking on BCTV, Johnson said: “The Scotty Murray image is one that always stands out for City fans.
“Brian Tinnion has shown me his goals against Cardiff as well; I’m not sure my one-yard tap-in features on many banners though!
“The players have the chance to become a hero - to do that we’re going to have to work extremely hard as a team.
“Cardiff are a good side in good form and above us in the table. We feel we’ve been doing well, so for a team to be four points ahead of us, it shows how strong they are.
“It will be a tough game but we hope that being at home can swing it in our favour.”
' WARNOCK AND TOMLIN '
Cardiff completed the double over City last season with a 2-1 win in Wales, followed by a 3-2 come-from-behind victory at Ashton Gate.
In the opposition dugout will be Neil Warnock, who boasts 37 years of managerial experience. He also has former City attacker Lee Tomlin in his ranks, following his summer switch across the Severn.
Johnson added: “We know what to expect. They will be physical and the ‘ball in play’ stats are amongst the lowest in the division.
“They’ve also got some very good individual players high up the pitch, so we have to be on our guard defensively to snuff out that danger.
“At the other end we need to bright and lively to penetrate their defence.
“Lee Tomlin is now a Cardiff player and we’ll treat him like any other player that comes back. The focus is always on winning the game, but after the game it will be good to see him.”
Eros Pisano and Nathan Baker will be assessed ahead of kick-off for hamstring and knee injuries respectively.
Tickets remain on general sale, with a crowd in excess of 20,500 guaranteed.
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