Sinclair Armstrong's first half strike proved enough for Bristol City to consolidate their place in the Sky Bet Championship play-off places, sealing a hard-earned 1-0 victory over Birmingham at Ashton Gate.

The decisive moment came in the 42nd minute when the powerful striker raced onto a Rob Atkinson through-ball and outpaced the Birmingham defence before a slotting a cool right-footed finish beyond the reach of goalkeeper James Beadle.

Blues paid for not having a cutting edge, particularly in the second half when they dominated for long periods without seriously testing Robins goalkeeper Radek Vitek, and there was only frustration to show for their considerable efforts.

The hosts gave a start to Armstrong, who impressed as a substitute in the 3-1 midweek home win over Southampton, in place of the injured Emil Riis, and brought in Ross McCrorie for Mark Sykes at right wing-back.

Birmingham also made two changes from their 1-0 win at Preston, with Marc Leonard and Patrick Roberts replacing Lewis Koumas and the suspended Bright Osayi-Samuel.

Blues made a fast start and when the home side lost possession in a dangerous area inside a minute, Roberts sent a low shot narrowly wide from the edge of the box.

A closely-fought...