A tale of two halves as Sheffield Wednesday lose control and their unbeaten record at Bristol City

When they had it in the first half at Bristol City, they were much the better side and crafted by far the better chances.

Neat, quick passing play saw them get the better of a side with a perfect record this term and one tipped to be right among the promotion contenders this term.

But when they conceded the midfield battle in the second half, it became far too difficult an afternoon for Wednesday.

They never got to grips with renewed vigour from the hosts after the break and were firmly on the back foot even before they were carved open for the first time to allow Tommy Rowe to rifle home from a neat Chris Martin lockdown.

Bristol City edging in front gave them the opportunity to slow down play, get plenty of men back and stifle Wednesday’s attempts to play - something they had struggled to do in the first half despite their strong desire to press hard.

A win by two goals - secured in stoppage time when the lively Jamie Paterson drilled a low shot home from the edge of the box - was more than a little harsh on an Owls side that had been competitive for so long.

It was an afternoon that demonstrated the promise of Wednesday with attacking vibrancy and confidence being delivered by excellent technical ability and great movement.

But it also showed that there is still plenty of work to be done in Garry Monk’s renovation and rejuvenation of the squad.

Lacking was real presence in the final third - something which Monk hopes to solve in the coming days - along with the ruthless touch needed to finish off some excellent chances created in the opening period.

And there was the first sign this season that defensive vulnerability has not been entirely solved as the Owls lost organisation at the back after the break.

But days like this will inevitably come in the rough and tumble of any Championship campaign, where fine margins are the deciding factor. It is how Wednesday react to their first setback that will be most telling.

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