Blackstock and two smoking barrels

Last updated : 03 November 2005 By Chris C

Blackstock’s goal-scoring appearance as substitute in the 2-1 loss to QPR earned him a starting berth against Ipswich. He took his chance once again with strikes in the 35th and 56th minutes. These were two more trademark poacher’s finishes with a close range header and a well taken finish following a cut-back from Bisgaard.

Blackstock could have even enjoyed a second senior hat-trick when he was unlucky to hit the bar shortly after his second strike. Blackstock is certainly taking his chance. With few games this month because of the international break, he would have been a substitute at best at Saints, with our strikeforce finally starting to find the net on a regular basis thanks to the form of Theo Walcott.

The Derby loan is providing more valuable league experience and is showing Harry Redknapp that he can more than cut it at this level. If he continues this form, then it will be hard to leave him out on his return to St. Mary’s. Indeed his three strikes for Derby have made him Saints’ top scorer this season after his goal against Southend in the Carling Cup.