Lambert hails vintage Canaries

The 2-0 win over Bolton - which completed the league double over the Trotters - came against a backdrop of injuries to key defensive personnel in the first half.

Centre-halves Zak Whitbread and Daniel Ayala were both the victims of hamstring injuries within the opening period, which forced the Canaries chief to juggle his pack.

"That's as good [as we have played] in my time in nearly three seasons here," Lambert told Sky Sports.

Colossal

"I thought we were outstanding and the players were colossal. The two full-backs had to go and play at centre-back and Bennett, who is a right-winger played at right-back.

"The way we played the game, I thought we deserved to win the game right from the off. We were dominant in the game against a very good Bolton side."

Andrew Surman scored the opening goal in the second half, however, he missed a great chance in the first 45 minutes when he hit the bar after a delightful lay-off from Grant Holt.

Anthony Pilkington wrapped up the game late on when he rammed the ball home after Adam Bogdan parried Russell Martin's drive.

Conclusion

Lambert, however, refused to blame the former Southampton starlet for his miss and instead praised his contribution to date.

"It's a chance, it's not a forgone conclusion that it's an easy chance," he added.

"He's done brilliant to make the run off Grant and he's just hit the bar.

"Andrew Surman's performances over the last few months have been of a really high level, not just Andrew; I think everybody today was absolutely brilliant for me."