Despite losing 4–0 to Millwall on the opening day of the season, 2001–02 was a successful one for Norwich City. The Canaries never dropped out of the top 10 in Division One following their opening result and sneaked into the playoff places on the last day, following a 2–0 win over Stockport County. Their FA Cup run was halted at the third round after losing 4–0 to Chelsea after a replay. The game featured a memorable backheeled goal by Chelsea's Italian forward Gianfranco Zola. Norwich's League Cup run was equally disappointing, losing 1–0 away to Brentford away in the first round. Norwich faced Wolverhampton Wanderers in the First Division playoff semi final, defeating them 3–2 on aggregate, setting up a tie with Birmingham City in the final. The Canaries were eventually defeated on penalties at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff after Iwan Roberts had opened the scoring for Norwich in extra time, following a goalless 90 minutes.
Note: Flags indicate national team as defined under FIFA eligibility rules; some limited exceptions apply. Players may hold more than one non-FIFA nationality.
Note: Flags indicate national team as defined under FIFA eligibility rules; some limited exceptions apply. Players may hold more than one non-FIFA nationality.
Note: Flags indicate national team as defined under FIFA eligibility rules; some limited exceptions apply. Players may hold more than one non-FIFA nationality.
^Benjamin was born in Kettering, England, and represented them at U-21 level, but also qualified to represent Jamaica internationally and would make his international debut for Jamaica in November 2002.
