Town captain Matt Holland says he truly began to realise the importance of the East Anglian derby after he met an angry fan in the street shortly after the Blues had lost a derby.

Holland says was berated by the fan who was deeply upset and angry about the loss to the Canaries and was not cheered up or calmed down even when it was pointed out that Town were close to the Premiership at the time.

The Irish international said on his website (http://www.matthollandweb.com): "We parted, him still angry and me with ears ringing.

"So, I know how important this match for the fans and will do - as I always do - my best on the pitch for the club.

"However, if we should lose please do not abuse me in the street.

"I want to win as much as you do but if we are to beat them we shall have to shackle McVeigh.

"Mark Venus is on the way back for us which bolsters the defence and we need to put together a composed performance. Or as composed as a derby match can be."

"And good luck to our young 'uns. Darren Bent and Ambrose have impressed thus far this season and will go a long way to becoming darlings of the crowd if they score or set up the winner on Sunday."

The Town skipper predicts a 3-0 win to the Blues.

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