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Two unsung heroes from NUFC's 5-1 win - They won't make headlines, but they were brilliant

by Olly Hawkins · 9 October 2022, 15:30

Yesterday was just brilliant, wasn't it? Five goals, a feel-good atmosphere throughout, Wor Flags treating us to another superb display and Eddie Howe's Mags doing likewise with a convincing win over Brentford.

Bruno Guimaraes ran the show, Miguel Almiron made it three goals in a week and Jacob Murphy even got in on the act, however there were two performances in black and white that went under the radar, for me.

They won't make today's headlines, but I thought Sven Botman and Joe Willock were both outstanding.

Starting with the big Dutchman, he just oozed class throughout. After losing his first duel with Toney - the first aerial battle he's lost all season - he went on to bully the former Toon striker, reading the game immaculately and showing real quality in possession.

He swept up with ease in potentially awkward situations and gave us that ability to get on the front foot from deep, playing some lovely cutting passes that allowed us to get in behind the Brentford midfield. He's only 22, but he was both a giant presence and calming influence yesterday.

As for Joe Willock, he built on his brilliant display at Fulham - where he bagged two assists - with another superb performance.

His ability to carry the ball at speed left the Brentford midfield struggling to keep pace with him, as the former Arsenal man drove at their defence.

Willock's touch and passing range was also that of a confident player enjoying his football, while his off the ball work was equally impressive, with his non-stop running and relentless pressing forcing Brentford into errors.

He's yet to score this season, but it won't be long until the athletic midfielder is bang amongst the goals if he keeps playing like this.

As for Botman, a call-up to the senior Netherlands squad will be inevitable if he continues to put in such classy, dominant and unflappable displays at Premier League level.

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