Kelly's heroes suddenly sparkle

Rob Kelly may have left the plug out against Southampton last week but he switched the lights of his team on to bright last night - and did wonders his own managerial credibility.

City's 3-2 Championship win at Queens Park Rangers was noteworthy not just because it was our first win there for 20 years, but because it was a footballing voyage of discovery.

We found that we could score goals, three of them.

We found that attack did win points even though the defence leaked.

We found that involving players instead of sidelining them created a better attitude and response.

We found that Kisnorbo and McCarthy were as solid a pair of centre-backs as we've had this season, despite the special difficulties of the day with QPR's height.

We found a manager who sounded happy in his work and translated that mood to his players.

We found a leader who in his own words, let his players play and take responsibility for their decisions.

We found that youth really could take us forward.

We found that floor football worked far better than hoof.

We found ourselves climbing from the relegation places

We were small but stood tall.

Stearman was allowed to show what effect an attacking full-back can have on a side by making a goal and scoring a goal in another generally excellent display.

Wesolowski, so lucky to play 75 minutes because of an early injury to Gareth Williams, proved he could create goals as well as be a midfield destroyer.

O'Grady showed the doubters that he is a mobile, energetic and capable front man who can relieve pressure and cause trouble for opponents.

The team had spirit, commitment, adventure but not only that, they coped with the big attackers and defenders of QPR by restricting their chances.

Resourceful football and three good points. There's no suggestion the team was on full beam but at least it was seen to shine.

And Rob Kelly quite clearly provided the electricity.