Fighting Foxes Banish Bolton

Leicester City 5 - 3 Bolton Wanderers 

Leicester edged a pulsating and thrilling contest at the King Power Stadium this afternoon in their final game of 2013. Some excellent finishing, as well as plenty of kamikaze defending made for a fabulous spectacle, if not a brilliant advert for the quality of Championship football. Not many games boast a scoreline of 3-3 at half time. Danny Drinkwater gave Leicester the lead in the 5th minute, firing an excellent shot into the bottom corner from outside the box. Just ten minutes later, Brazilian midfielder Moritz poked home a left footed shot from near the penalty spot to equalise. Former Leicester striker Jermaine Beckford gave the visitors the lead in the 20th minute, firing clinically into the bottom corner from deep in the penalty area. 

To Leicester's credit, they responded well and man of the match Lloyd Dyer delivered an outstanding cross to pick out Anthony Knockaert at the far post, the diminutive Frenchman scoring a rare headed goal to make the score 2-2 with just 37 minutes on the clock. Again, Bolton bounced back within minutes, Moritz scoring his second of the game and it looked as though the visitors would go into the break ahead in the game. Crucially, Leicester found a way to draw level again before half-time, Paul Konchesky's shot deflecting past the hapless Lonergan. After the interval, Leicester began to exercise more control over the game and seemed tor get stronger as the game went on. In the 65th minute, Anthony Knockaert's free-kick struck the bar and Moore should have put the rebound away. City were dominating at that stage and it seemed like a matter of time before they took the lead again. In fairness to Kasper Schmeichel, the Dane made a superb save in the 70th minute to keep the scores level and deny Davies - it was Bolton's best chance of the half.

In the 73rd minute, Lonergan brought down Vardy in the box, only for David Nugent to miss the resulting penalty. Again, City persevered and just one minute later, Lloyd Dyer flew down the left flank, cut into the box and fired a superb finish into the bottom corner of the net - it was an outstanding individual goal. There was still time for substitute Gary Taylor-Fletcher to cap off an incredible match with his first goal for the club. Moore hit a clearance to the edge of Bolton's box, King flicked it on and Taylor-Fletcher fired home in the 89th minute. Manager Nigel Pearson may have some concerns about his team's defending today but he will be delighted with how many chances his side put away, as well as the fact that so many different players found the back of the net. With Vardy suspended on New Year's Day after picking up his fifth booking of the season this afternoon, someone else is going to get their opportunity in the starting line-up.

So, the Foxes finish the year top of the Championship table, with 22 wins from their 44 league games this calendar year. In the context of this season, City sit on 48 points from 23 games, 4 clear of their closest rivals at the halfway stage. At this point last season, Cardiff City had 47 points from 23 games and went on to win the league by 8 points. January will be critical for City, both in terms of maintaining their form but also in keeping the squad together during the transfer window. If rumours are to be believed, Leicester may even strengthen their squad, with Algerian midfielder Mahrez set to join in a three and a half year deal. After last season's collapse in form throughout February and March, the arrival of a new player or two could give the squad a crucial impetus. Watch this space.

We win in the dark...

Leicester City 1 - 0 Reading

Even a first half power cut could not prevent Leicester City from securing another 1-0 victory this afternoon and moving to the top of the championship table. Supporters left the ground in almost complete darkness after the floodlights were powered by the emergency generator for most of the game. In gloomy light, Anthony Knockaert was fouled in the box in the 20th minute, giving David Nugent yet another opportunity from the penalty spot - he didn't disappoint. City had many opportunities to extend their lead and make the victory a comfortable one. In total, of the 21 shots at goal, only 7 were on target and, other than the penalty, most of these efforts were tame. A new striker may well be top of the shopping list in the January transfer window.

Whilst City played well in the first half, their second half display was simply gritty and resilient. They did enough to hold out for their second consecutive 1-0 victory. These are the types of games that, in the second half of last season, Leicester were unable to find a way to win. With Burnley slipping up at Middlesborough and QPR not playing until tonight, Leicester are currently sitting at the top of the tree. Bolton visit the King Power Stadium on Sunday for Leicester's final match of 2013 and their 23rd league match of the season - the halfway point. A 15th league victory would be a remarkable achievement and set the Foxes on the right course to a very happy 2014.

Foxes' Festive Fixtures off to Flier!

QPR 0 - 1 Leicester City

Jamie Vardy's ruthless finish in the 41st minute was enough to give Leicester all 3 points at Loftus Road this afternoon. The result moves City joint top of the Championship table and inflicts upon QPR their first home defeat of the season. Remarkably, it is Leicester's 6th away league win of the season - as many as they managed in the whole of last season. Importantly, it is both Leicester's first win and first clean sheet in December after a recent dip in form.

Leicester rode their luck at times today. QPR dominated possession and created lots of chances in the first half. They squandered all of them. By contrast, Leicester had one clear cut chance before the break and they took it. Just before the break, Schmeichel's goal-kick travelled deep into the opposition half of the field and Nugent flicked the ball on. Vardy chested the ball past the defender and rifled home a stunning shot with his right foot into the bottom corner of the net. In fairness, Leicester were stronger after the interval and created the best chances in the second half. Dyer should have scored twice and James' deflected shot rattled the bar.

Indeed, a second goal would have taken Leicester to the top of the table on goals scored. However, all associated with Leicester City will settle for a return of 42 points from 21 games. Maintain that form over the second half of the season and the Premier League beckons.

Man City Ease Past Foxes

Leicester City 1 - 3 Manchester City

Manchester City progressed into the semi-final of the League Cup with a comfortable victory over the Foxes. The match was over as a contest before half-time with the premiership outfit taking a 2-0 lead. Kolarov smashed home a superb 25 yard free kick in just the 9th minute and left the home side looking like the proverbial rabbits in headlights. In truth, Pellegrini's side could have scored a hatful during the remainder of the first half. It took until the 41st minute for them to double their lead, Dzeko heading home Milner's cross. City defenders were picked off during the build up to that goal and Nigel Pearson was right to express his disappointment at the defending during that move - City certainly contributed to their own demise. 

The second half was a different affair and many might argue that Leicester were the better team after the break. However, poor defending allowed Dzeko to score his second of the night. The defence switched off as Milner ran to the by-line to receive a throw-in. He slid the ball into Dzeko who finished into the bottom corner. It left the Foxes with too much to do. That said, the introduction of James at half time certainly enabled Leicester to retain more possession and to provide more of an attacking threat. Indeed, Lloyd Dyer managed to score a consolation goal 13 minutes from time after a good move down the left flank. At least City competed in the second half and they certainly didn't disgrace themselves.

Foxes and Clarets Share Spoils

Leicester City 1 - 1 Burnley

Leicester remain third in the Championship table, just one point off leaders Burnley, after the two clubs shared the points at the King Power Stadium this afternoon. Leicester dominated the opening exchanges and deservedly took the lead in the 14th minute. The nature of the goal was fortunate - Vardy adjudged to have been fouled in the box. Nugent buried the resulting spot-kick. Despite many opportunities to extend their lead, City failed to do so and it was to cost them. Burnley came back into the game in the second half and equalised just 90 seconds after the break, Ings capitalising on some poor defending to volley the ball into the bottom corner. 

It was a decent result for Leicester against the league leaders and prevented the Foxes from slipping to a third straight defeat. This is particularly important in light of the fixtures still to come this week. Next up, the small matter of Manchester City on Tuesday night.

FA Cup 3rd Round Draw

Leicester face a tough trip to Stoke in the 3rd Round of the FA Cup. The match is likely to take place on 4th January. The draw in full:

Barnsley v Hartlepool or Coventry

Yeovil v Leyton Orient

Liverpool v Oldham or Mansfield

Nottingham Forest v West Ham

Bristol City v Watford

Southend v Millwall

Middlesbrough v Hull

West Brom v Crystal Palace

Kidderminster v Peterborough

Doncaster v Stevenage

Stoke v Leicester

Southampton v Burnley

Newcastle v Cardiff

Rochdale v Leeds

Wigan v MK Dons

Charlton v Wrexham or Oxford

Manchester United v Swansea

Port Vale v Plymouth

Norwich v Fulham

Aston Villa v Sheffield United

Macclesfield v Sheffield Wednesday

Sunderland v Carlisle

Bolton v Blackpool

Blackburn v Manchester City

Everton v QPR

Brighton v Reading

Arsenal v Tottenham

Birmingham v Bristol Rovers or Crawley

Grimsby v Huddersfield

Ipswich v Preston

Derby v Chelsea

Bournemouth v Fleetwood or Burton

Scavenging Seagulls Frustrate Foxes

Brighton 3 - 1 Leicester City

Leicester suffered their first back to back defeats of the season at the Amex Stadium this afternoon. The result sees the Foxes slip to third place in the table, just one point behind Burnley and QPR. The Foxes face both of those teams in their next two Championship fixtures. Sandwiched in between those  games, the small matter of Manchester City's visit in the Capital One Cup. It would be fair to say that the next three games could go a long way towards defining Leicester City's season. 

Leicester never found second gear today. They found themselves behind in the 9th minute, Lopez finding Barnes at the far post after a poor Schmeichel clearance. In the 28th minute, Brighton doubled their advantage as Craig Conway chested down a cross-field ball and fired an excellent shot into the bottom corner from outside of the box. Just after the hour mark, King's headed goal from a Knockaert free kick gave City hope. However, a clumsy challenge from Morgan, less than fifteen minutes from time, gifted the home side a penalty and killed off Leicester's challenge. Barnes slotted home the spot kick for his second of the game.

Wednesday's Wickham Wangles Winner

Sheffield Wednesday 2 - 1 Leicester City

A Connor Wickham brace won Sheffield Wednesday all 3 points against Leicester at Hillsborough this evening. It had been a promising start for the Foxes, who took the lead after just 3 minutes. Anthony Knockaert's trickery left the Owls defenders on their heels - the Frenchman dribbling into the box from the right corner of the pitch and firing a powerful shot high into the net. The lead lasted for just 6 minutes. A high ball into the Leicester box wasn't dealt with by Wasilewski and Wickham managed to cut inside and curl a shot into the far corner. 15 minutes later, Wickham scored again from an almost identical position. This time, it seemed as though the Owls striker was just trying to cross the ball - it snuck into the net at the far post. 

Leicester huffed and puffed but didn't do enough to earn the equaliser that they were looking for. Having boasted a 27 point advantage over managerless Sheffield Wednesday before kick-off, the result will be extremely disappointing for City manager Nigel Pearson. The Owls had managed just 1 victory in their previous 16 league games before tonight's fixture. It is the kind of match that Leicester would have expected at least a point from, particularly when you consider that they were 1-0 up so early. The Foxes travel to Brighton on Saturday and will need to bounce back. One of the many strengths that Leicester have displayed this season is the ability to respond well to a disappointing defeat - they will need to do so again on Saturday to underline their promotion credentials.

Flying Foxes Move Top

Leicester City 3 - 0 Millwall

Leicester secured their 12th league victory of the season to move 3 points clear at the top of the Championship table. Two goals from the impressive Vardy and a volley from Lloyd Dyer enough to secure all three points on this occasion. With close rivals Burnley and QPR both losing 2-1 away from home, moving into top spot is a great boost for the Foxes as they approach a busy stage of the season. Tuesday's trip to Sheffield Wednesday will be the first of 8 games in a 30 day period, including of course the week when City face Burnley, Manchester City and QPR. It is a crucial stage of the season and Leicester look to be in good shape.

Today's match was as one-sided a contest as you are likely to see in the Championship. City secured 61% of the possession during the game and managed a staggering 30 shots at goal. Millwall, by contrast, mustered one effort on target in the entire match. After 11 minutes, a clever move from Leicester saw Wasilewski pick out Drinkwater down the right flank. His cross was met by Lloyd Dyer, who controlled his volley well at the edge of the six-yard box and found the back of the net. City had to wait until the second half to double their advantage. 

In the 52nd minute, Jamie Vardy ran almost the entire length of the pitch to thump the ball between Forde's legs. Less than 3 minutes later, Vardy hassled and harried a Millwall defender into making an error. He nipped in, pushed the ball around the keeper and slotted home with his weaker right foot from a tight angle. It was an outstanding performance from Vardy, a player who was much maligned last season. Without doubt, he is currently one of the first names on Nigel Pearson's team sheet. 

Credit to the manager too. His £1m purchase of non-league Vardy has proven to be a brilliant investment. Pearson also stuck by the player after a difficult first season. However, Pearson's greatest achievement is this:- he has lifted his squad from the lowest possible ebb in May to now be sitting proudly at the top of the Championship table just 6 months later. Remarkable. 

Nugent Brace Sinks Ipswich

Ipswich Town 1 - 2 Leicester City

Leicester came from behind at Ipswich this afternoon to secure another away win and move level with Burnley at the top of the Championship table. In the first half, City were atrocious, allowing David McGoldrick to give the hosts the lead in just the second minute. McGoldrick's shot - from outside the box - found the bottom corner and Schmeichel will be disappointed to have been beaten at his near post. The Foxes were rocked by the early goal and weren't able to find any rhythm for the entire first half. Pearson made two changes at half-time, Miquel and James replacing Moore and King. Indeed, James was instrumental in Leicester's second half revival.

Two David Nugent goals in the space of six second half minutes turned the match on its head. In the 51st minute, Vardy's lay-off found Nugent, who delivered a crisp, right footed finish to equalise. Dyer rounded the keeper brilliantly in the 57th minute and squared the ball for Nugent to put City ahead. That goal, Nugent's 13th in 12 visits to Portman Road, was enough to secure all 3 points and send Leicester joint top of the Championship table. Leicester only managed 6 away wins in the whole of last season. Today was their fifth away win of the current campaign - a real indication that, at present, City are on the right track to go one better than they did last season. 

Remembrance Fixture Distinctly Unmemorable

Leicester City 0 - 2 Nottingham Forest

Leicester City's annual Remembrance fixture lived up to its billing, but only in terms of the pre-match ceremony. An RAF helicopter landed on the centre circle before the match to deliver the match ball and   a minute's silence was held before kick-off during which 'The Last Post' was played. Sadly, the match itself was forgettable as far as Foxes fans will be concerned - Nottingham Forest running out 2-0 winners. City never really got out of first gear and, as good as their performance was at Watford last week, this afternoon's display was poor. The only consolation for Leicester is that both Burnley and QPR only managed to draw their respective fixtures, keeping the Foxes in second place in the Championship table.

Nottingham Forest opened the scoring just after the half hour mark. Paterson's shot was blocked and Simon Cox scored from close range. Just before half time, Jamie Mackie doubled the visitors' lead after Drinkwater had cleared Lansbury's initial effort off the line. When Nugent missed a penalty with 20 minutes remaining, it was clear that this was not going to be City's day. The Foxes were largely ineffective, squandering the few chances that they did manage to create. Even 3 second half substitutes did nothing to improve the home side's fortunes. 

Plenty for Nigel Pearson to mull over during the International break. Mind you, he will be used to that this season. This is only Leicester's third defeat of the campaign but all have come in the game immediately preceding the International breaks. For the players, the manager and the fans, it will be a long two weeks.

Fantastic Foxes Wallop Watford

Watford 0 - 3 Leicester City

Leicester thrashed Watford 3-0 at Vicarage Road this afternoon to consolidate second place in the league and secure their best ever start to a league season. It was a superb performance from the Foxes, particularly in the first half. They dominated possession, took an early lead and restricted Watford to very few chances. Nigel Pearson was forced to make two changes to his first choice line-up. Schlupp and Wood replaced the injured Konchesky and Vardy respectively. Both replacements played well, Wood grabbing a goal and Schlupp nullifying the threat of Watford's winger, Anya.

There was an element of fortune about Leicester's opening goal. Watford's keeper Alumina hit a straightforward clearance straight into Chris Wood's face, only for the ball to deflect into the back of the net. City were good value for their 1-0 lead at half-time. Wood and Dyer both had the ball in the net again before the break, only for the linesman to raise the flag for off-side on both occasions. Both calls could have gone either way. Watford had very few clear-cut opportunities in the first half, Schmeichel pulling off an excellent double save from McGugan to deny the hosts their best opportunity to score before the break.

Seven minutes into the second half, Anthony Knockaert doubled Leicester's advantage and banished the memories of his previous visit to Watford in May. On that occasion, City suffered the cruellest defeat imaginable - it was to be a different story today. Schlupp - who turned in a superb performance today - broke clear down the left flank. He slid the ball into Knockaert, who flicked the ball into the air and thumped it into the back of the net. In truth, City rode their luck at times in the second half and Watford missed at least three clear opportunities to score. However, five minutes from time, Lloyd Dyer broke clear to fire a shot low. The ball ricocheted off Almunia and looped into the net. It capped an excellent performance for the Foxes and was no less than they deserved. Indeed, King and Wasilewski both had good opportunities to add a fourth before the final whistle.

Capital One Cup - Quarter Final Draw

Leicester City will face Manchester City at home in the Quarter Final of the Capital One Cup. The match will take place on Tuesday 17th or Wednesday 18th December. The draw in full:

Leicester City v Manchester City

Stoke v Manchester Utd

Sunderland or Southampton v Chelsea 

Tottenham v West Ham

Fighting Foxes Fend Off Fulham

Leicester City 4 - 3 Fulham

Leicester produced an outstanding display to beat Premiership side Fulham in a pulsating League Cup tie at the King Power Stadium this evening. The result - Leicester's eighth successive home win in all competitions - puts them into the Quarter Final of the competition. The Foxes are the only side remaining in the competition from outside the Premier League. Nigel Pearson made five changes to his starting line-up, bringing in Wood, Schlupp, Hammond, James and Miquel. He also changed to a 4-2-3-1 formation. It would be fair to say that it took City a while to get to grips with the change in shape and personnel. Fulham took advantage of Leicester's slow start, Rodallega putting the visitors ahead in the 18th minute. 

City responded well and two goals before half-time put Leicester in charge of the game. First, a thunderous Knockaert free-kick rebounded off the goalkeeper. Wes Morgan was the first to react and steered a header into the bottom corner. A few minutes later, a casual clearance from Senderos rebounded off Konchesky and fell into Wood's path. He calmly slotted the ball home to give Leicester the lead at the break. Less than 10 minutes into the second half, City were 3-1 up when Ignasi Miquel headed home an excellent cross from Drinkwater. 

City should have won the game comfortably from this point. However, a lapse in concentration allowed Roadellaga to pull a goal back for Fulham almost immediately after the re-start. This gave Fulham momentum and it seemed likely that they would equalise, despite some excellent opportunities for Dyer and Schlupp to extend the Foxes' lead. Indeed, Fulham's equaliser came just 3 minutes before full-time, Karagounis thundering a superb free-kick into the top corner. The match seemed destined for extra time when substitute Nugent broke clear and slid a perfect cross into Dyer's path. The winger made no mistake to give Leicester the most dramatic of winners in the 89th minute. Leicester survived 6 minutes of injury time to record a famous victory.

Foxes Formula Beats Bournemouth

Leicester City 2 - 1 Bournemouth

Leicester notched up their 5th consecutive 2-1 home victory to move into the Championship's promotion places this afternoon. Bournemouth were the visitors today and Nigel Pearson named the same team and the same substitutes as last week. They delivered the same result. In all competitions, Leicester have now won 7 consecutive home games. It is a formidable record and one that the manager will be keen to extend when Premiership side Fulham visit the King Power Stadium on Tuesday night in the 4th Round of the Capital One Cup.

Leicester got off to a good start this afternoon when Nugent curled a trademark shot into the bottom corner in the 18th minute. To Bournemouth's credit, they struck back - Pugh netting with a sublime finish from outside of the box in the 38th minute. An error from Allsop in the Bournemouth goal gifted City the winning goal in the 64th minute. The goalkeeper should have come out to clear a Chris Wood through ball. His hesitation allowed Vardy to latch onto the pass, take the ball around him and slot it home. In truth, City should have gone on to score more goals in the final quarter of the game. 

Instead, Leicester made hard work of the victory and missed a number of clear-cut chances, although they weren't helped by some poor refereeing decisions. Vardy should have had a penalty early in the second half when he was clumsily knocked over in the box. Elliott Ward, who was eventually shown a red card, should have been dismissed in the first half. Having already been booked, the Bournemouth player kicked the ball away and should have received a second booking before the break. Despite these frustrations, Leicester were very professional and, although not at their absolute best, found a way to win the game. On the evidence so far, the Foxes look a stronger outfit than they were last season. Let's hope they can last the course...

Terriers Outfoxed!

Leicester City 2 - 1 Huddersfield Town

Leicester notched up their fifth consecutive home league win to beat a spirited Huddersfield Town team this afternoon. City took the lead in the 11th minute after superb work down the left hand channel by Nugent. He found Vardy, who hammered an excellent, right footed shot into the roof of the net. Both sides then had several good chances to score in an open and entertaining match. In the 38th minute, Knockaert's corner was headed into his own net to double Leicester's lead. At that stage, City looked very comfortable and should have taken complete control of the game.

To their credit, Huddersfield continued to fight and, in the 67th minute, substitute Scannell broke through and forced Paul Konchesky into an error. The full back, on his 100th appearance for the Foxes, deflected the ball into his own net. Huddersfield pressed for an equaliser and might have found one had their striker James Vaughan kept his cool. The striker thought he was fouled by City centre back Wasilewski. When the whistle failed to go, Vaughan pushed Wasilewski to the ground with a two handed shove. He received a straight red card and the visitors' momentum dissipated. City saw the game out comfortably from that point on and secured all three points to consolidate third place in the table.

Kasper's Keepmoat Keeping Catastrophe

Doncaster Rovers 1 - 0 Leicester City

Kasper Schmeichel's 17th minute howler cost Leicester City all 3 points at Doncaster's Keepmoat Stadium this afternoon. A Mark Duffy corner looped gently towards the Danish keeper's near post and Schmeichel allowed the ball to slip through his grasp and into the back of the net. It was a disappointing way to concede and a disappointing result, against a team struggling at the wrong end of the Championship table. Despite 10 shots at goal, Leicester never really got going and seemed at a loss in terms of how to deal with Doncaster's direct approach. As Nigel Pearson stated after the game, "We were a little bit laboured." It would be fair to say that this was an understatement from the manager.

The most frustrating aspect of this defeat is that City now have to wait a fortnight for an opportunity to put the result behind them. It is only Leicester's second defeat of the season, but both have come leading into the International break. The Foxes will be hoping that they can bounce back in the same way as they did after defeat at Charlton. That loss triggered a run of 6 games unbeaten, including 5 victories. Despite today's result, Leicester still sit 3rd in the table, with a return of 23 points from their first 11 games. They now face a run of 3 home games in 11 days, culminating in the visit of Premiership Fulham in the 4th Round of the Capital One Cup on 29th October.

Leicester Huish Home Crowd

Yeovil Town 1 - 2 Leicester City

Leicester extended their unbeaten run to 5 Championship games and moved level on points with league leaders Burnley, after a 2-1 away victory at Huish Park. Nigel Pearson named an unchanged side yet again and the Foxes made a solid start to the game, negotiating their way through to half-time at 0-0. After the break, City found a second gear and scored twice in 10 minutes to take a decisive lead in the game. First, in the 54th minute, Lloyd Dyer fired a left-footed shot into the bottom right hand corner after good work from Nugent. In the 63rd minute, De Laet was fouled in the box and Nugent slotted home his 6th penalty of the season. Hayter won and converted a penalty in the 84th minute to give Leicester an uncomfortable final 10 minutes. However, the Foxes held on to secure all 3 points.

Leicester have now suffered just one defeat in 13 matches in all competitions this season. They sit in third place in the table, level on points with leaders Burnley and second placed QPR. Nigel Pearson will be keen to go into the International break with another positive result from Saturday's trip to Doncaster, particularly after the result at Charlton, which lead into the last International break. In current form, not many would bet against them. Given the number of fixtures City have played in recent weeks, and the fact that they face another long away trip this weekend, expect to see a number of changes to the starting line-up on Saturday.

Nugent's spot on...again!

Leicester City 2 - 1 Barnsley

David Nugent scored his fifth penalty of the season to give Leicester City all 3 points at the King Power Stadium this afternoon. It looked like it was going to be a frustrating afternoon for the Foxes in the first half, as they failed to break the deadlock before the interval. Dyer and Vardy both had good chances to give City the lead, before Knockaert was fouled in the box and the referee failed to award what looked like a certain penalty. Having dominated the possession and created so many chances, the Foxes would have been frustrated to go in 0-0 at the break. Nigel Pearson could have been forgiven for making changes at half-time, particularly as Barnsley were determined to keep 11 men behind the ball. However, the manager sent the same team out in the second half and they delivered the goods.

First, Nugent ran on to an excellent Lloyd Dyer pass in the 50th minute and fired a shot into the bottom corner of the net. Less than 12 minutes later, Vardy sprinted through to latch onto a loose ball. He knocked the ball past goalkeeper Butland, who brought the striker down with a clumsy challenge. Nugent's spot-kick was ruthless - into the top corner. Leicester were comfortable at that stage and should really have gone on to win more comfortably. However, a defensive lapse in concentration allowed Scotland to steal in at the back post and score an easy header for the visitors. It created a nervous 20 minutes for Leicester and they were indebted to Kasper Schmeichel for pulling off a superb save 8 minutes from time, diving full length to his left to claw out a Crainie header. 

Leicester now face away trips to Yeovil on Tuesday night and Doncaster on Saturday. They will looking for a minimum of 4 points from these two games to consolidate their superb start to the season.

Capital One Cup - 4th Round Draw

Leicester City will face Fulham at home in the last 16 of the Capital One Cup. The match is likely to take place on Tuesday 29th October. The draw in full:

Sunderland v Southampton
Leicester City v Fulham
Birmingham City v Stoke City
Manchester Utd v Norwich City
Burnley v West Ham Utd
West Bromwich Albion/Arsenal v Chelsea
Tottenham Hotspur v Hull City
Newcastle Utd v Manchester City

Regulars Rescue Fringe Foxes

Leicester City 2 - 1 Derby County

Nigel Pearson made 8 changes to his starting line-up for tonight's Capital One Cup tie against Derby County and it nearly cost the Foxes their place in the 4th Round. City found themselves 1-0 down at the break after a dismal first half display. The introduction of Nugent, Dyer and Knockaert changed the game, the first two coming on at the very start of the second half. City were able to get a foot-hold in the game and two goals in two minutes won the tie for the home side. 

Chris Martin gave the visitors the lead in the 42nd minute, sliding the ball past Kasper Schmeichel. It was probably a deserved lead as Leicester had not found their way out of first gear. City didn't draw level until the 78th minute when Anthony Knockaert scored from a 25-yard free kick. It was a fabulous strike which rebounded off the underside of the bar, over the goal line and into the roof of the net. Derby had barely recovered their composure when, just two minutes later, Drinkwater produced a clever backheel to steer the ball into the bottom corner. Leicester go into the hat for the fourth round draw which takes place tomorrow night.

Blackpool Beach King Kon Comeback

Blackpool 2 - 2 Leicester City

Two Leicester goals in less than 2 minutes from Paul Konchesky and Andy King almost stole all 3 points for the Foxes at Bloomfield Road this afternoon. In the end, the match finished 2-2, enough to keep City above Blackpool in the Championship table, with a return of 17 points from 8 games. Leicester now sit third behind QPR and Burnley, having lost just one league match so far this term. It was a good result for City, who didn't play at their best and were 1-0 behind until the 72nd minute. The hosts took the lead in the 19th minute, when Chris Basham rose well at the back post to head home Fuller's cross. In truth, it could have been worse than 1-0 at half-time for Leicester.

City found their way back into the match when Jack Robinson fouled Danny Drinkwater in the box in the 72nd minute. As Nugent had been substituted, it was left to Paul Konchesky to calmly side-foot the penalty into the bottom corner, sending the Blackpool keeper the wrong way. Less than two minutes later, Andy King fired a sublime left-footed shot into the top corner from outside the box. The Tangerines were clearly shocked by the sudden shift in fortunes and it looked as though Leicester would hold on to claim all 3 points. However, Schmeichel clumsily bundled over MacKenzie in the penalty area in the first minute of injury time and Ince scored the equalising goal from the spot. Although this was a frustrating end to the game, Leicester will certainly be taking the positives from the game.

The Foxes found a way back into the game from a losing position, away from home against a very good side. Pearson's double substitution and change of formation turned the game around. Taylor-Fletcher and Schlupp replaced Nugent and Dyer respectively and City switched to 4-3-3. The two Leicester goals followed just 5 minutes later. City managed 15 shots at goal to Blackpool's 10 and dominated possession, with 57% of the ball over the course of the game. It was certainly a point gained, particularly when you consider that Leicester's next two league games are against teams currently sitting in the relegation zone. Before that of course, the mouth-watering prospect of a cup game against East Midlands rivals Derby County at the King Power Stadium on Tuesday night.

Formidable Foxes are Top of the Tower

Leicester City 2 - 1 Blackburn Rovers

Leicester produced their third successive home league victory to move top of the Championship table, after a 2-1 victory over Blackburn Rovers. Lloyd Dyer opened the scoring for City in the 16th minute after an excellent pass from Andy King. On the stroke of half-time, Leicester were awarded yet another penalty and David Nugent stepped up to give Leicester a comfortable 2-0 lead at half-time. In the second half, City created a plethora of good chances and should have extended their lead. Vardy, King and Nugent all went close. Inevitably perhaps, after spurning a whole host of chances, Blackburn pulled a goal back - Drinkwater conceded a penalty kick and Jordan Rhodes converted for the visitors. City held on though to secure all 3 points and top spot in the league. 

Overall, it was an excellent performance from the Foxes and things are starting to fall into place. Vardy and Moore have been in inspired form so far this season. Experienced players like Morgan, King and Dyer are playing consistently well. Pearson is also making subtle changes to his squad. Experienced Polish international Marcin Wasilewski has signed on a one year contract. The 33 year old has 60 caps for his country and adds a wealth of experience to the squad. Former Wigan trainee Ryan Watson has signed on a one year deal. Finally, it emerged this evening that former Blackpool forward Gary Taylor-Fletcher has been training with the club although no deal has been agreed as yet. An away trip to Blackpool is next up for Leicester. City will be hoping that they can enjoy the view from the top of the tower again on Saturday evening.

That's Moore Like It!

Leicester City 2 - 0 Wigan Athletic

Leicester got back to winning ways this afternoon with a 2-0 home victory over Wigan Athletic. Liam Moore scored his first goal for the club that he joined at the age of 7, heading home Knockaert's corner after 15 minutes. In celebrating the goal, Moore put his foot through the advertising hoarding - it clearly meant a lot to him! The Foxes created some excellent chances after that but poor finishing, particularly from David Nugent, meant that they had to wait until the 81st minute to double their advantage. Beausejour fouled Vardy in the box and Nugent dispatched the penalty kick. It was a good, solid performance from Leicester, although Wigan were poor.

The visitors did have one good spell in the second half after making all 3 substitutions. However, Pearson combatted their tactics by switching to 4-5-1 and playing Wood as the lone striker with Vardy and Nugent wide. It was a crucial stage of the game and Pearson's substitutions may have been a telling influence on the final result. The manager was forced to watch from the stands, having being handed a one match touch-line ban after the Charlton game. Pearson will be relieved to get back to winning ways and a return of 13 points from the first 6 games puts the Foxes in 4th place. They will be hoping to continue their good form against Blackburn on Tuesday night at the King Power Stadium.

Old Boys Haunt Foxes

Charlton Athletic 2 - 1 Leicester City

Former Leicester City players Michael Morrison and Yann Kermorgant both scored against their former club to give Charlton all three points at the Valley this afternoon. The match finished 2-1 to condemn the Foxes to their first defeat of the season. It was an unfortunate defeat for Leicester and manager Nigel Pearson will be unhappy about several key incidents that occurred during the match. Referee Darren Deadman had a very poor game, inexplicably sending off Matty James, incorrectly awarding a corner to Charlton which lead to one of their goals and failing to give the Foxes an obvious penalty. City now go into the International break, reflecting on a very respectable haul of 10 points from 5 games and 5th place in the league at this stage.

Despite their legitimate concerns about the referee's performance, Leicester did not play well - particularly in the first half. Just before the half hour mark, Morrison was left unmarked from a corner and headed home the opening goal. Charlton held onto the lead until half-time. Early in the second half, James was fouled in the box and Leicester should have been awarded a penalty. Instead, referee Deadman deemed the protest of Matty James a second bookable offence and sent him off. Incidentally, the first offence was a harsh booking after just 11 minutes. 

Leicester's misery was compounded just before the hour mark as Kermorgant headed home from a corner to double Charlton's advantage. Schmeichel believed he was fouled as the cross came over but again, the referee saw things differently. Drinkwater pulled a goal back for City just two minutes later, rifling the ball home from the edge of the box. It was scant consolation for Leicester who wanted to extend their unbeaten run to seven matches in all competitions. Leicester will look carefully at the referee's report and are bound to appeal against the red card shown to Matty James. It would be fair to say that Nigel Pearson will not be pleased to see Deadman walking in to officiate another Leicester game in the near future. 

Hammond Joins, Marshall Departs

Winger Ben Marshall has joined Championship rivals Blackburn Rovers for an undisclosed fee. Meanwhile, Southampton midfielder Dean Hammond has signed for Leicester on a two year deal. He joins King, James, Drinkwater and Danns, bringing the tally of central midfielders at the club to 5. Marshall's departure leaves just Dyer, Knockaert and Gallagher as natural wide players in midfield. This may reflect Pearson's shift towards narrower formations this season, with 3 central midfielders on the pitch in most matches. It would be also be true to say that Marshall has flattered to deceive in the last year or so, after an impressive start in his first few months with the Foxes. 

Capital One Cup - 3rd Round Draw

Leicester City will face Derby County at the King Power Stadium in the 3rd Round of the Capital One Cup. The match is likely to take place on Tuesday 24th September unless it is selected for television coverage. Manager Nigel Pearson will be delighted with a home tie, after long trips to Carlisle and Wycombe in the previous rounds.

Five Star Foxes Ease Through

Carlisle United 2 - 5 Leicester City

Leicester ran out 5-2 winners in their Capital Cup Second Round tie at Brunton Park this evening. With Saturday's league trip to Charlton in mind, manager Nigel Pearson made six changes to his starting line-up. Logan, Bakayogo, Miquel, Dyer, Knockaert and Danns all started the match, shaping up in a 4-4-2 formation. The number of changes involved might explain why the Foxes made such a slow start to the game. Indeed, City found themselves behind in the 16th minute when David Amoo struck a right-footed effort past Logan. As the first half progressed, Leicester got into their stride and Wood found the equalising goal in the 37th minute - a neat left-footed finish.

Just two minutes into the second half, captain for the night Lloyd Dyer thundered an excellent finish into the roof of the net to put City ahead. They didn't look back. Knockaert doubled City's lead in the 50th minute before Wood scored 2 goals in 3 minutes, either side of the hour mark, to complete his hat-trick - the first a penalty. 20 minutes from time, James Berrett pulled a goal back for the hosts, but it was too little, too late. City go into the hat for the 3rd Round draw - that match likely to take place on Tuesday 24th September.

Foxes Finish Beats Brum

Leicester City 3 - 2 Birmingham City 

Three goals in the final 12 minutes were enough to give Leicester all 3 points against Birmingham City at the King Power Stadium this afternoon. Up until that point, it had been a frustrating afternoon for the Foxes who had created a plethora of chances without managing to find the back of the net. By contrast, Birmingham created one good chance in the entire game and took it. Leicester lined up in a 4-3-3 formation, with Morgan missing from the side due to a back injury. Whitbread partnered the impressive Moore at centre-back, with De Laet and Schlupp (continuing to deputise for Konchesky) as full-backs. 

It was a bright start to the game for Leicester and the only criticism of the first half would be the poor finishing. Vardy, Wood, James and Drinkwater all had at least one opportunity to score for the Foxes in the first half. Instead, on 12 minutes, the visitors took the lead. Ferguson's excellent cross was met by a flying Matt Green on the edge of the 6 yard box. It was a clinical finish although Schmeichel may be disappointed that he didn't attempt to intercept the cross. Frustratingly, it remained 1-0 until half-time. A 3-1 lead for Leicester may have been a better reflection on the pattern of play.

Credit must go to Nigel Pearson for the changes that he made at half-time. Criticised so often last year for being slow to react, he switched to a 4-4-2 formation and replaced Wood and Drinkwater with Dyer and Knockaert. In the end, these changes paid off. To be fair, Birmingham had their best spell midway through the second half and seemed to win all of the 50-50 balls. To compound this, the referee had a poor second half and missed several clear free-kicks that should have been awarded to the home side. However, 12 minutes before the end of the match, the Leicester players finally found their shooting boots.

First, Dyer burst through and squared the ball to Vardy on the edge of the box. He fired a right-footed shot, with the help of a slight deflection, low into the bottom right-hand corner of the net. It was a well deserved goal for a much maligned player who has looked fit, sharp and tenacious in the opening few games of the season. Just 4 minutes later, King, on his 250th appearance for Leicester fired into the same corner of the net from an almost identical position. To top it off, Nugent scored a penalty in the 90th minute after Dyer was felled in the box. The spot-kick was fired high and hard into the centre of the net. Birmingham got a consolation goal in injury time, Chris Burke curling a lovely, left-footed effort past Scmeichel's outstretched right hand. That goal deprived City of top spot in the division, although I am sure that Foxes fans will settle for 2nd place, unbeaten and a tally of 10 points from 4 games - a fabulous start.

Away Form Will Hold the Key

The focus of disappointment for most Leicester City fans at the end of last season was the team's decline from the middle of January. However, it was Leicester's away form across the course of the whole season that cost the Foxes a place in the automatic promotion places. Hull City, who were promoted in 2nd place, did not have as good a home record as Leicester. Both teams won 13, drew 4 and lost 6 but Leicester's goal difference was + 23 to Hull's + 13. Yes, a disappointing finish to the season, but City did enough at the King Power Stadium to secure 2nd place. 

It was away from home where City struggled, winning on just 6 occasions to Hull's 11 victories. Peterborough, relegated to League One at the end of the season, matched Leicester's away points tally of 25. Ultimately, this is where City came up short. So, on that basis, two wins from their first two away league matches this season, suggests that City might be more competitive this season. They must be more resilient when they are in front and more ambitious when they are level or behind. If they can get this right, and match last season's home form, they won't be far off second place in May.

Ram Raiders!

Derby County 0 - 1 Leicester City

A 37th minute own goal by Derby goalkeeper Lee Grant gave Leicester their second successive away league victory. Aside from their solitary season in League One, this is now City's best league start for 16 years. Credit must go to Nigel Pearson, criticised for his inflexible formation last season. The manager had started this season with a new look 3-5-2 formation. However, he put out a 4-3-3 formation at Derby today and his players delivered. When things got tight in the second half, City switched to a 4-4-2 and managed to hold on for victory.

Liam Moore was awarded man of the match, putting in an outstanding performance alongside captain Morgan. Schlupp played at left-back, adding to speculation that Konchesky is on his way out of the club. Up front, Nugent played in behind Vardy and Wood. Credit must go to Vardy too, who has started the season in good form. His clever back heel lead to the confusion in Derby's box that gave the Foxes a crucial, winning goal. It took the Foxes until October to register their second away league win last season - two from two at the start of this term will certainly breed confidence.

Stalemate at the King Power Stadium

Leicester City 0 - 0 Leeds Utd

Leicester and Leeds shared a dull and uninspiring 0-0 draw at the King Power Stadium this afternoon in front of the Sky cameras. Both teams cancelled each other out and there were very few clear cut opportunities for either team to break the deadlock. Drinkwater had a shot deflected wide in the first half and Wood struck the post with a low left-footed shot in the second period. That was as close as the hosts came. Matt Smith headed wide for the visitors late in the second half. Neither goalkeeper was forced into a save during the entire match.

Vardy and Nugent started the game upfront for City but service to them was poor. At the back, Whitbread returned to the side in place of the injured St. Ledger. New loan signing Ignasi Miguel watched the game from the sidelines - the Spaniard is a centre back by trade but can also play on the left-hand side. With Pearson persisting with a 3-5-2 formation that requires wing-backs, I suspect that Konchesky's days are numbered as first choice down the left hand side. Miquel, or the other new signing, Bakayogo, are bound to force their way into the team sooner or later. Many City fans had reservations about Konchesky as a full-back - he is certainly no wing-back.

A solid start to the season for City and reasons to be optimistic that City will be there or thereabouts come the end of the season.

Capital One Cup 2nd Round

Leicester City have been drawn away to Carlisle United in the Second Round of the Capital One Cup. The match will be played during the week commencing 26th August.

Leicester Leave It Late in League Cup

Wycombe Wanderers 1 - 2 Leicester City

Leicester progressed into the Second Round of the League Cup after a second successive 2-1 away victory. Manager Nigel Pearson persisted with the same 3-5-2 formation, with a couple of changes in personnel. David Nugent partnered Chris Wood upfront, while Danns made a rare appearance in the centre of midfield. Liam Moore replaced Whitbread, who took a heavy knock in the game at Middlesborough. Dyer replaced Konchesky as wing-back on the left hand side of the field and Knockaert returned to the squad with a place on the bench. The Frenchman did feature in the second half.

The Foxes took the lead in the 13th minute from the penalty spot - Andy King fouled in the box by Wycombe midfielder Stuart Lewis. Reluctant penalty taker David Nugent slotted the ball home. City's lead was short-lived as Jo Kuffour found the equaliser for the hosts in the 21st minute. It was a scrappy game and Leicester failed to impose themselves effectively on the opposition. However, they found a way to win without the need for extra time. Sean St. Ledger, who scores his share of goals as a defender, scrambled home the winner from a corner in the 95th minute. 

Foxes Find Winning Formula

Middlesborough 1 - 2 Leicester City

It would be fair to say that many Leicester fans were grumbling when they heard the team news this afternoon - Vardy upfront with Wood and no place in the squad for Anthony Knockaert. However, Nigel Pearson's team selection was completely vindicated as City won the game 2-1, coming from behind after a poor first half display. Sean St. Ledger was unlucky to score an own goal in the 36th minute after Jutkiewicz seemed to foul the Irish defender from behind to force the error. In the second half, the Foxes seemed like a different team and whatever the manager said at half-time seemed to do the trick. Perhaps some of the manager's critics would do well to note that the team selection, the 3-5-2 formation and the half-time team talk were all spot on this afternoon. 

On the hour mark, Danny Drinkwater fired an excellent shot in at the goalkeeper's near post. Just 7 minutes later, the much vilified Jamie Vardy raced through and curled an excellent right footed shot into the far corner to win the game for Leicester. It was a hugely encouraging start to the season for City and will go a long way to exorcising the demons from Vicarage Road in May. The only disappointing aspect this afternoon was a serious looking injury to Zak Whitbread. The centre-half was stretchered off after 18 minutes with his neck in a brace and suffering from concussion. Liam Moore deputised in Whitbread's absence and is bound to play against Wycombe in the League Cup on Tuesday night.

All Quiet on the Leicester Front - Season Preview

It has, for once, been a quiet close season for Leicester City. Just two players have departed - Wellens and Beckford, whilst only one player has joined the ranks - former Tranmere left-back Zoumana Bakayogo. What's more, manager Nigel Pearson remains in post - a decision which polarises opinion amongst City fans. For some, Leicester's mid-season collapse, causing them to slip out of an automatic promotion berth and barely scrape into a play-off place, was unforgivable. Others will point to the fact that, in Pearson's 3 full seasons in charge, he has lead the Foxes to the League One title and two top 6 Championship finishes. This season is bound to be the manager's toughest challenge of all. 

Against the backdrop of new Financial Fair Play regulations, Pearson cannot strengthen his squad much further, without finding a way to offload Erikkson's big earning signings. So, Pearson must find a way to succeed with the players who got City into a good position last season and then blew it. Perhaps the painful memory of that last minute defeat to Watford in the play-off semi-final will be motivation enough. Pearson must be ready with a plan b when things are not going well. He can't change the personnel and so must be more flexible with his formation. It is interesting to note that 3-5-2 has featured heavily in pre-season matches. Don't be surprised if that is how the Foxes line up, particularly away from home and possibly starting at Middlesborough this afternoon.

2013/14 Fixtures

Here we go again! Next season's fixture list was released this morning. Leicester face a tough start to their campaign with away trips to Middlesborough, Derby and Charlton in August.

The full fixture list:

August

Saturday 3rd Middlesbrough (a)
Tuesday 6th Wycombe (a) LEAGUE CUP
Saturday 10th Leeds United (h)
Saturday 17th Derby County (a)
Saturday 24th Birmingham City (h)
Saturday 31st Charlton Athletic (a)

September

Saturday 14th Wigan Athletic (h)
Tuesday 17th Blackburn Rovers (h)
Saturday 21st Blackpool (a)
Saturday 28th Barnsley (h)

October

Tuesday 1st Yeovil Town (a)
Saturday 5th Doncaster Rovers (a)
Saturday 19th Huddersfield Town (h)
Saturday 26th Bournemouth (h)

November

Saturday 2nd Watford (a)
Saturday 9th Nottingham Forest (h)
Saturday 23rd Ipswich (a)
Saturday 30th Millwall (h)

December

Tuesday 3rd Sheffield Wednesday (a)
Saturday 7th Brighton (a)
Saturday 14th Burnley (h)
Saturday 21st Queens Park Rangers (a)
Thursday 26th Reading (h)
Sunday 29th Bolton Wanderers (h)

January

Wednesday 1st Millwall (a)
Saturday 11th Derby County (h)
Saturday 18th Leeds United (a)
Saturday 25th Middlesbrough (h)
Tuesday 28th Birmingham City (a)

February

Saturday 1st A.F.C. Bournemouth (a)
Saturday 8th Watford (h)
Saturday 15th Nottingham Forest (a)
Saturday 22nd Ipswich Town (h)

March

Saturday 1st Charlton Athletic (h)
Saturday 8th Wigan Athletic (a)
Tuesday 11th Barnsley (a)
Saturday 15th Blackpool (h)
Saturday 22nd Blackburn Rovers (a)
Tuesday 25th Yeovil Town (h)
Saturday 29th Burnley (a)

April

Saturday 5th Sheffield Wednesday (h)
Tuesday 8th Brighton (h)
Saturday 12th Reading (a)
Saturday 19th Queens Park Rangers (h)
Monday 21st Bolton Wanderers (a)
Saturday 26th Huddersfield Town (a)

May

Saturday 3rd Doncaster Rovers (h)

Pre-season Fixtures

Leicester City have announced 6 pre-season fixtures with opponents for the 7th match at the King Power Stadium to be confirmed in the next few days. The matches are:

Fri 12th July – (a) Leamington

Sat 20th July – (a) Ilkeston (LCFC XI)

Tue 23rd July – (a) Port Vale 

Wed 24th July – (a) York City 

Sat 27th July – (h) TBC

Sat 27th July – (a) Corby Town (LCFC XI)

Tue 30th July – (a) Northampton Town

Season Review

It is very difficult to explain how Leicester City's season came off the rails in such spectacular style. At the end of January, Leicester were 2nd in the league, having won 16 of their first 29 games with an impressive win ratio of 55%. The Foxes had the best defence in the league and the strikers were finding the net on a regular basis. David Nugent had 14 goals to his name and Chris Wood had netted 7 times in his first 5 matches. Leicester had recorded their biggest league victory for 30 years (6-0 over Ipswich) and had managed two separate sequences of 5 league wins a row - something no other Championship team matched all season. At the end of January, it looked like a question of whether the Foxes would be able to chase down league leaders Cardiff.

However, Leicester won just 3 of their last 17 league games - a win ratio of less than 18%. This included a winless run of 9 matches, their poorest sequence for 6 years. City dropped from 2nd to 6th and scraped into the play-offs by the skin of their teeth. In no other Championship season would 68 points have been enough to secure 6th. Wood and Nugent, having netted 21 times in 34 league matches for City, managed just 6 more between them in the final 17 games. 

Much has been made of City's youthful squad. Indeed, with an average age of just 23, Leicester have the third youngest squad in the entire football league. However, this doesn't explain the dramatic loss in form of key players like Nugent. The defence is not exempt from criticism either. City conceded twice in each of their final 5 league games and went through a sequence of 13 games without a clean sheet. At the crucial climax of the season at Watford, they conceded 3 goals in 1 game for the first time all season. Even though Leicester were a penalty kick away from a trip to Wembley, it would be difficult to say that they deserved the opportunity after such a poor run of form.

So where do City go next? The owners' silence has been deafening in terms of their support for the manager. It might be a case of - we back you because we can't afford to sack you. Financial Fair Play rules are looming and the money has clearly run out. If Pearson is kept on, he will need to clear a few players out before he can bring more in. St. Ledger, Wellens, Gallagher, Danns, Waghorn and Beckford are all contracted to Leicester and are on good wages. In my view, they are all surplus to requirements. However, they won't be easy to shift and this may be Pearson's biggest challenge over the next few months. 

In terms of the rest of the squad, it seems almost certain that Schmeichel will leave, Hull are understood to be prepared to pay £4m for the Dane. Other than that, City should hang on to their key players and will undoubtedly be contenders again next year. In terms of new signings, I would like to see a reliable partner for Wes Morgan brought in. Konchesky's days at left back may be numbered and back-up in central midfield and upfront is a must.

My view is that Pearson should be given one more season at least. He is putting together a young squad and the signings of Wood, Knockaert, Morgan and James have been excellent. If he does manage to get rid of the old guard, I would back him to bring in quality replacements at a reasonable price. Of course, there is no doubt that Pearson has made mistakes. He didn't adjust his tactics quickly enough when things weren't going to plan, especially away from home. Substitutions were predictable and uninspiring at times, and playing a weakened team at Huddersfield in the FA Cup was a huge error. City were in top form at the time and the season lost momentum from that point onwards.  

However, despite his stubborn demeanour in interviews, Pearson will have learnt lessons this season. If Leicester managed to get into such a strong position next season, you would back them to finish the job properly. Starting all over again with yet another new manager cannot be the answer. After all, Pearson has lead City to their 2 highest league finishes in the last 9 seasons. Are we sure that anyone else out these could do any better? If the answer is not 100% yes, then it surely can't be worth the risk. Sometimes it's a case of better the devil you know.

Leicester Pay a Heavy Penalty

Leicester lost their Championship play-off semi-final in the cruellest possible manner at Vicarage Road this afternoon. Going into the game with a 1-0 lead from the first leg, Leicester looked in control at half-time. David Nugent's header from a Matty James corner in the 19th minute cancelled out Vydra's spectacular opening goal for the home side. It was 1-1 at half-time, meaning that the Foxes were 2-1 up on aggregate. In truth, Leicester's second half performance was disappointing. They didn't keep possession of the ball for long enough periods and surrendered the initiative to Watford. With 15 minutes remaining, City were flagging and clinging on for extra time. To be honest, it seemed inevitable at that stage that the Hornets would win the tie.

Remarkably, in the 6th minute of injury time, Anthony Knockaert danced into the box, was felled by Cassetti and earned a penalty. The Frenchman stepped up to take the spot kick, knowing that if he found the back of the net, Leicester were on their way to Wembley for the £120 million match. Knockaert's penalty was saved by Almunia and pushed back into the Frenchman's path. His second effort was again saved by the Spaniard. What happened next was the cruellest possible finish to the game. Watford broke to the other end of the pitch and Troy Deeley smashed home the winner with 96 minutes and 44 seconds on the clock.  After a long, hard season of 53 games, City had been one kick away from their biggest victory in over a decade - such are the fine margins between success and failure in Championship football.

Though difficult at present, Foxes fans must put the defeat into perspective. Nigel Pearson has had two full Championship seasons in charge of Leicester City and has lead them into the play-offs on both occasions. These are City's 2 highest league finishes in the last 9 seasons. Incidentally, on both occasions, a Frenchman was arguably one kick away from taking the team to Wembley. There is the nucleus of a good squad at Leicester and overall, Pearson has made some good signings. In my view, he deserves another crack at promotion next season. It will take some time for the club to get over today's defeat. It will take even longer if the Foxes appoint yet another new manager.

Que Sera, Sera!

Leicester turned in one of their best performances of the season to beat Watford 1-0 in the first leg of the play-off semi-final at the King Power Stadium this evening. The Foxes made a superb start to the game and completely dominated the first half. Nugent, Knockaert and Keane should all have been on the score sheet before the break and City would have been disappointed to go in at 0-0. Watford came into the game a little more during the second half but the Foxes continued to dominate. Ten minutes from time, David Nugent headed in Anthony Knockaert's cross to give City a crucial lead to take to Vicarage Road on Sunday.

It was Nugent's first goal in 17 games and City's first clean sheet in 13. Suddenly, matters are back in Leicester's hands. Avoid defeat on Sunday lunchtime and Leicester go to Wembley for the first time in 13 long years. If City manage to play with the same fight and determination on Sunday, few would bet against them. Watford looked shell-shocked after missing out on automatic promotion just days ago and City didn't give them the opportunity to recover. It's a long way back to Watford tonight for Gianfranco Zola's side and there are just over 60 hours until the second leg kicks off. Nigel Pearson will be hoping that the quick turnaround works in his favour and that his side can earn a place at Wembley before Watford can work out where it all went wrong for them.

Stubborn City Sneak into Sixth!

I wrote in the week that Leicester City needed the most unlikely of miracles to secure a play-off place. That is exactly what the Foxes got this afternoon. Not only did Leicester secure their first away victory at Nottingham Forest in over 40 years, but Bolton failed to win their final home game against a Blackpool side who had nothing to play for. Through the course of the afternoon, 6th place changed hands on 4 separate occasions. The final and crucial change came when Anthony Knockaert poked home an injury time winner to put City into 6th place on goal difference. It could scarcely have been more dramatic.

The game started badly for the Foxes when Simon Cox's early shot put Nottingham Forest 1-0 up. Matty James notched the equaliser in the 24th minute after his deflected shot found the back of the net. Just before half time, King headed home Knockaert's excellent cross to give City the lead and fire the Foxes into 6th place. At that stage, Blackpool were 2-0 up at Bolton and things looked like they were going in Leicester's favour. However, Bolton scored twice in a minute to level their game at 2-2 and 5 minutes into the second half, Ward scored for Forest to make it 2-2 as well.

It looked at that stage as though it wasn't going to be Leicester's afternoon but there was time for one final dramatic twist. Forest pushed forward in search of a winner, to snatch a place in the play-offs for themselves. This left them exposed at the back and Knockaert and Wood were able to capitalise. Knockaert played Wood in on goal and the Kiwi striker, unselfishly and calmly, pushed the ball back into Knockaert's path. The Frenchman slotted the ball home, ripped off his shirt and jumped into a crowd of 2025 rapturous Leicester fans. A nail-biting few minutes followed, in which Leicester and Blackpool both held on. A remarkable day.

Ironically, there may well be a psychological shift amongst the play-off contenders now. Leicester have snuck into 6th place, having thought that they'd thrown their chance away weeks ago. They go into the play-offs with real momentum and a winning feeling. By contrast, their opponents Watford are shell-shocked. The Hornets lost their final home game of the season to Leeds today and miss out on automatic promotion as a result.

Watford goalkeeper Almunia was injured in the warm-up and replacement Jonathan Bond was stretchered off with a serious neck injury during the game. To add insult to injury, one of Watford's leading scorers, Troy Deeney, was sent off and will automatically miss the first leg of the play-off semi finals. That match takes place on Thursday night at the Walkers Stadium with the return match at Vicarage Road on Sunday lunchtime. Not long then for Gianfranco Zola to pick his players up after such a draining afternoon. Nigel Pearson will have no such problems and his team will be buzzing about their dramatic reprieve this afternoon. I know which camp I would rather be in ahead of Thursday night...

Palace Secure Play-Off Spot

Crystal Palace earned a point at Millwall this evening, meaning that Leicester can no longer catch them in the chase for a play-off place. This is a huge blow, as Palace face a Peterborough side desperate for victory on Saturday. This was City's most likely route back into the top 6. It is inconceivable to think that Bolton will fail to win their final home game against a Blackpool side who have nothing to play for. However, Leicester must win their game and hope for the most unlikely of miracles!

Peterborough Hold the Key

I wrote yesterday about the importance of Bolton's trip to Cardiff this afternoon. Indeed, Bolton drew 1-1 with the Welsh side, meaning that if the Trotters fail to beat Blackpool on the final day, a victory for Leicester at Nottingham Forest next weekend would see the Foxes into a play-off place. This is unlikely, given that Blackpool won this afternoon and secured their Championship status for another season. Blackpool will have nothing to play for on the final day and Bolton are bound to secure the 3 points and finish above Leicester.

However, of more interest will be Peterborough's game at Crystal Palace, if Palace fail to win at Millwall in mid-week. Peterborough will go into the final game thinking they need to win, in order to have a chance of staying in the Championship. If they pull off the victory and the Foxes manage to beat Forest, Leicester will be in the play-off places on goal difference. It is all still to play for and given the unpredictable nature of the Championship, few would predict the outcome of next weekend's games. Nigel Pearson will simply be relieved if his side still have something to play for on the final day.

Hornets Provide Sting in the Tail

Leicester City 1 - 2 Watford

This wasn't a 'must win' game but it was certainly a case of 'must not lose' for the Foxes. Defeat means that the Foxes must now win at Nottingham Forest next weekend for the first time in 40 years. Even if they manage that unlikely feat, Nigel Pearson's side are also relying on Bolton slipping up in both of their final two games. It is conceivable that Bolton will lose at Cardiff tomorrow but surely they will manage a home victory over Blackpool on the final day of the season. In truth, Leicester do not deserve the luck that such an unlikely set of results would afford them. With just 2 victories in 16 league games, Leicester's season did not fall apart tonight. It has been a steady demise since the start of February.

Leicester played well tonight against a skilful and organised Watford side. The visitors took the lead in the 41st minute when Deeney bundled home from a corner. Just two minutes later, Chalobah doubled Watford's lead with an incredible, fierce drive from 30 yards. The ball crashed against the underside of the crossbar and in. It was a remarkable goal and one that knocked the stuffing out of the Foxes. It had been a fairly even contest up to that point but City, as too often in recent matches, failed to take their chances. Wood, King and Morgan all missed decent opportunities in the first half.

City were spirited in the second half. Nugent, Kane and Marshall replaced Schlupp, Dyer and Knockaert respectively and Leicester had a good spell of pressure. In the 61st minute, Kane headed home Konchesky's cross to give the Foxes some hope. 8 minutes later, Leicester should have been awarded a penalty when Chris Wood was felled in the box. However, it wasn't to be their night - something we have said all too often in recent months. Watford held on to the victory and still have a slim chance of claiming 2nd place. Leicester's chances of claiming 6th spot are slimmer still. All eyes on Bolton's trip to Cardiff tomorrow. If Bolton fail to register a victory, there is still a tiny glimmer of hope for Leicester on the final day of the season. 

Palace Point Prolongs Play-Off Push

Crystal Palace 2 - 2 Leicester City

Twice Leicester City came from behind at Selhurst Park this afternoon to earn what could turn out to be a very valuable point. Danny Gabbidon put the Eagles ahead from Stephen Dobbie's free-kick before the half hour mark - it was the Welshman's first league goal for 8 years. Andy King's cool, curling finish 10 minutes later made the score 1-1 at the break. 20 minutes into the second half, Dobbie put Palace ahead again. This time the lead only lasted 6 minutes as Chris Wood notched his 20th goal of the season with a clinical finish.

City drop out of the play-off places, a point behind Bolton. However, Nottingham Forest dropped crucial points at home today, drawing 0-0 with second from bottom Barnsley. If Cardiff beat Bolton next weekend, 4 points from the remaining 2 games would be enough to secure a play-off place for Leicester. In this scenario, should the Foxes manage to beat Watford on Friday night, they would be going to Nottingham on the final day in search of a draw rather than a victory. In the final analysis, Forest may well rue today's results more than Leicester. All is still to play for and, be assured, it is going down to the wire!

Schlupp-up and away!

Leicester City 3 - 2 Bolton Wanderers

Leicester clung on to a crucial 3 points at the King Power Stadium this evening and moved themselves back into the play-off places. It had been a disastrous start to the match - Morgan conceding a penalty in just the second minute. Ngog dispatched the spot-kick to give the visitors the lead. The Foxes showed real character to get back into the match and to be leading by half-time. In the 39th minute, Dyer was fouled in the box and Chris Wood put away the resulting penalty kick. Less than 2 minutes later, City were in front. Wood held the ball up well and played in Dyer, who crashed a shot against the underside of the bar to put Leicester ahead.

It was always going to be a tense second half given Leicester's recent form and the late goals they have conceded of late. 20 minutes from time, a poor defensive header from King allowed Pratley to fire home the equaliser. However, the Foxes showed real character to push forward in search of the winner. 12 minutes from time, Jeff Schlupp fired home a superb volley, from the edge of the box, into the bottom corner. The remainder of the match, including more than 7 minutes of injury time, was pure torture for City fans. Leicester might have conceded a couple of penalties, Bolton hit the bar and it seemed as though City had forgotten how to defend. However, they did see the game out to secure a crucial win.

Remarkably, with a full Championship programme, no other teams in the top 9 places managed to register a victory this evening. Crystal Palace, Leicester's next opponents, slipped to a 3-0 defeat at Ipswich. Win at Selhurst Park on Saturday and the Foxes will be in no worse than 5th place. It's a big 'if' but you'd be brave to bet against them.

Faltering Foxes Fail Again

Leicester City conceded another late goal to draw 2-2 with Birmingham City at the King Power Stadium last night. When Curtis Davies headed the ball into his own net in the 12th minute, Leicester must have felt that their luck was going to change. It was a promising performance from the Foxes but they will rue a host of chances that they squandered during the first half.  King, Keane, and Nugent all had excellent opportunities to extend the lead and put the game beyond doubt by half time.

Zigic equalised for the visitors just after the hour mark, after a well worked move down the right flank. With 15 minutes remaining, Schlupp powered a header home from close range and City looked destined for their first win since February. However, a rash challenge from David Nugent in the 90th minute gifted Birmingham City a penalty and Chris Burke beat Schmeichel from the spot. Replays showed that Nugent's challenge was outside of the box - it was a cruel blow for City.

Just 4 games remain and the Foxes must win 3, a highly unlikely scenario for a team who have won just 1 of their last 13 matches. Whilst it is easy to blame the manager, the truth is that key players have faltered at the crucial stage of the season. The strongest defence in the league hasn't kept a clean sheet for 9 games and the strikers have stopped finding the net. Chris Wood hasn't scored in his last 9 games and David Nugent hasn't netted in 12. These two factors combined have completely derailed Leicester's campaign - it won't be easy for Pearson to get them back on track.

Leicester Lament Late LuaLua Leveller

Brighton 1 - 1 Leicester City

Another last ditch goal cost Leicester City at Brighton's Amex Stadium this afternoon. In their last 8 games, they have conceded 5 goals in the last 5 minutes, dropping 7 crucial points in the process and failing to register a single victory during that run. Those 7 points would have put City in 4th place above Crystal Palace - so much for the best defence in the league. With 5 games remaining, City must win their 3 home games and register a point at Crystal Palace or Nottingham Forest to reach the 70 point mark. That may well be enough to secure a play-off place. It is a tall order but there is still some hope.

One reason for optimism was this afternoon's performance. Leicester were the better team, managing a staggering 19 efforts on goal, with 10 on target - a superb effort away from home against a team that is above them in the league. Matty James looked to have won the game for City in the 73rd minute, hitting a left footed shot in at the near post from close range. Frustratingly, the Foxes couldn't hold on and LuaLua's late goal stole a point for the Seagulls. It should be seen as a point gained rather than 2 points lost.

City now face 2 home games in 5 days - they must win them both. The club must do everything they can to get the Walkers Stadium full for Birmingham City's visit on Friday night. Birmingham are 13th with absolutely nothing left to play for this season. A win in that game could give City real momentum to take into the Bolton game just 5 days later. There were enough encouraging signs today to believe that Leicester can still find form and get the results that they need. After all, there is always one team that makes a late charge to grab 6th spot. Don't bet against that team being Leicester this season.