Magic Mag pulls points out of the bag for Cot
JACQUES MAGHOMA gave Birmingham a glimmer of hope as they ended a difficult year with a vital victory.
The Blues midfielder netted in the 83rd minute to grab a crucial three points against promotion-chasing Leeds.
It was a well-deserved win for the Blues who dominated for long spells before wrapping up only their third win in 14 games under Steve Cotterill.
He said: “It was a big win and after 10 minutes’ play I thought it was going to be a good day for us.
“There was a massive vibe around the ground from our fans and that was very important and why we got the performance we produced.
“The season is only halfway through and we can build on that good performance.”
But for long periods it appeared they would be frustrated by some sterling defensive work.
Craig Gardner was tireless in Birmingham’s midfield with some accurate long passes which kept the pressure cranked up.
But Leeds worked their way back into the game and Kalvin Phillips was the first to get a shot on target in the 20th minute, forcing David Stockdale into a hasty save.
Birmingham seemed too anxious to atone for their recent poor form but they physically dominated the lightweight visitors.
Stockdale had his quietest game of the season but made the save of the game when he pushed a Pablo Hernandez effort on to the top of the bar.
In a frantic finish David Davis went close with a cross-shot which set up Birmingham for one final push for victory.
Sub Jota fired in a shot which Leeds goalkeeper Felix Wiedwald was unable to hold and the unmarked Maghoma was on hand to lash the winner into the net.
Leeds boss Thomas Christiansen said: “It was disappointing not to take three points.
“When it was goalless I thought it wouldn’t be a bad result in the situation that existed.
“But I am very happy with the performances the team have produced in December, when we collected 16 points from a possible 21.”