Norwich City battled back from a two-goal deficit to secure a 2-2 draw against Bundesliga side Hoffenheim in a pre-season friendly played in sweltering conditions in St Johann, Austria.
The Canaries were caught napping in the opening quarter, with Ihlas Bebou and Marius Bulter capitalising on defensive lapses to put the German side 2-0 ahead within the first six minutes.
Despite the early setback, Norwich displayed resilience and a vibrant second-half performance saw them claw their way back into the game. Jon Rowe, showcasing his predatory instincts, raced through the Hoffenheim defence to lash home a left-footed shot from 20 yards in the 52nd minute.
The England Under-20 international was a constant thorn in the side of the German outfit and was rewarded for his industrious display with a well-deserved goal.
The equaliser arrived in the 66th minute when Brad Hills, a recent arrival at Carrow Road, volleyed home from Marcelino Nunezâs corner.
The match saw the return of Angus Gunn and Josh Sargent to the starting line-up, while new signing Ben Chrisene made his debut off the bench.
Despite the absence of Jose Cordoba, who missed the game due to a muscular injury, Norwich showcased an impressive display of attacking intent, particularly in the second half.
Kellen Fisher was ruled out with suspected tonsillitis, while Adam Idah and Christian Fassnacht watched from the sidelines. However, Idah participated in an aerobic fitness session during the closing stages.
Grant Hanley captained the side and started at right-back alongside Hills, who had to deal with a flurry of early attacks.
The Canaries will continue their pre-season campaign in Austria with further friendlies as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Hoffenheim (starting XI): Philipp, Kaderabek, Drexler, Promel ©, Bishof, Bebou, Stach, Jurasek, Akpoguma, Moerstedt, Micheler.
Goals: Bebou (20), Bulter (26)
City: Gunn (Long, 70), Stacey (Chrisene, 77), Hanley (Duffy, 45), Hills (Adegboyega, 83), Montoia (Warner, 45), Nunez, McLean (Hernandez, 77), Sara (Forsyth, 70), Rowe (Myles, 83), Sargent (Gibbs, 45), Sainz (Kamara, 70). <strong>Subs (not used):</strong> Barden, Renecke.
Bookings: Gunn, Rowe
Goals: Rowe (52), Hills (66)
- The Pink Un is providing full coverage of the Canaries' time in Austria, including Tuesdayâs friendly against Hoffenheim, in partnership with <a rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" href="https://www.chipsaway.co.uk/local-car-body-repairs/norfolk/norwich/">Chips Away Norwich</a>