January 13 2005

Iain Dowie

Halfway through the season and we're out of the bottom three, but sadly out of the FA Cup, writes Neil McSteen.

If Iain Dowie had to see headmaster Simon Jordan in his office to collect his half-term report I'm sure it would be glowing, with A for effort and endeavour all round, with the only room for improvement being in the hanging on for a result category'.

Looking back, we've had some highs and lows since we took a point on the opening day away at Norwich.

The switch to 4-5-1 that enabled Andrew Johnson to grab us a precious point at Villa Park followed by the televised first victory over Fulham really kick-started our season.

Back to back wins over West Brom and Birmingham City were particularly sweet.

Then there was the performance of the season thus far: the 1-1 draw against a rampant Arsenal. If only Vassilis Lakis had won it!

November and December were tough, but we were the first team this season to score two at Anfield and then Old Trafford.

The win over Villa was particularly sweet and filled us all with belief again. The job is by no means complete but we are within touching distance of staying up.

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