Dean Smith laments killer moment in Norwich defeat but blasts ‘pathetic’ decision that followed

Dean Smith was frustrated by Norwich City’s 4-0 loss to Manchester City, not because of the scoreline but because of how they forgot their “principles” in defence.

Norwich suffered a comprehensive defeat to the champions that does no good for their own relegation battle. But the scoreline was wider than it could have been. Although the visitors dominated possession and had more shots, many felt Norwich gave them a decent game.

Indeed, Pep Guardiola opined in his own assessment that it was “difficult” as always to get the job done.

But Dean Smith felt his side could have made it more difficult for the opponents. The ex-Aston Villa boss observed some defensive deficiencies – particularly for the game-changing second goal.

He told Sky Sports: “It’s a frustrating evening. We were beaten by a really good team.

“If we get beaten 5-0 or 6-0 and they open us up and score good goals I’d be more accepting with the players. It’s the manner of goals I’m really disappointed with.

“We hung on, they missed some big chances, we had some moments ourselves. It wasn’t one-way traffic.

“The second goal kills us. We forgot our principles and allowed a tap-in. That deflated the whole stadium. It was tough after that.

“The way they play, it’s difficult for centre-halves as you don’t know who to mark. We could have got out a little quicker.”

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Although the game was out of reach at the time, Smith also took issue with the fourth goal. Man City won a penalty when Liam Delap went down in the box, which Raheem Sterling missed but converted on the rebound to complete his hat-trick.

Smith does not think he should ever have had the opportunity, since the