Jay puts his critics on the spot over 'Pensfield' jibes!

JAY Stansfield has hit back at the critics who dismiss his goal return as overly reliant on penalties.

- By BRIAN DICK

The Blues striker converted from the spot in Saturday's dramatic 2-1 victory at Blackburn.

It was his first penalty of the season - added to the nine he scored last term in a goal return of 23 as Blues romped to the League One title. Stansfield’s only miss came in a 4-0 win over Cambridge in February.

That high total, combined with the division-record transfer fee, put the 22-year-old in the spotlight with many lining up to deride the price tag and what they perceived to be a reliance on spot-kicks - some even dubbing him ‘Pensfield’

However, Blues’ talisman had his say after the win at Ewood Park, as he took the responsibility not only for scoring from 12 yards, but for dragging his side back from the brink of defeat. “I'd like to do that when we're winning, but we're in a structure and we know what we are good at and that sort of freedom when you're chasing the game comes out,” said Stansfield.

“When we're chasing the game, that's when big players need to step up for this team, that’s what I enjoy doing and that’s what I thrive off.