Bristol City's Bright Start Under Struber’s Command
Bristol City's new era under Gerhard Struber is already shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent memory, replacing the often underwhelming tenure of Liam Manning. Struber has quickly stamped his authority with a dynamic playing style, rejuvenating the Robins' approach both at home and on their travels.
Struber's Road Success
Where Manning left fans wanting on the road with just a couple of wins in the last six months of his reign, Struber has turned things around spectacularly. He’s already picked up two wins away from Ashton Gate, contributing to an unbeaten streak that includes scoring three times or more in several games—a stark comparison to the mere four occasions Bristol City achieved this throughout the last campaign.
Historic Perspective: City's Best Starts
Digging into the annals of Bristol City's history in the Championship, which marks this as the 11th consecutive season, the beginnings under Struber are reminiscent of some of the best. The 2020-21 season had witnessed a thrilling start where City won their first four out of five, only marred by a last-minute penalty at Barnsley. This early momentum carried them through what became a challenging campaign staved off relegation.
Even further back, only the seasons of 2007-08 and 2014-15 mirror the current form of three wins and two draws from the opening fixtures. The 2014-15 season under Steve Cotterill ended in a successful promotion from League One, and the 2007-08 campaign, under Gary Johnson in the Championship, also started strongly. Notably, the current goal difference under Struber outshines both these campaigns at the same stage—indicative of a robust offensive strategy.
Looking Ahead with Cautious Optimism
Fans will be cautiously optimistic, looking ahead to the weekend's fixture against Oxford, knowing the thrills and spills synonymous with following Bristol City. The club’s history is peppered with soaring highs and crushing lows—it’s the hope that kills you, as they say.
Upcoming Thrills and Keepsake Legends
Given the promising start, one can’t help but feel a surge of excitement akin to the glorious runs in the past, like the triumphant 1975-76 promotion season. As seasoned supporters will fondly recall, every match during those times felt like a step towards immortality, much like the present vibe under Struber's stewardship.
To wrap up, as we forge ahead, let’s relish the electrifying displays and perhaps dare to dream of echoes from the glory days of Cotterill and Johnson. And, on a lighter note for our next fixture:
Why did the Oxford fan bring a ladder to the match?
To finally see what it’s like to be at the top of the table!
