FA Cup player ratings: Manchester City v Aston Villa

Hart – Parried a fierce shot by Heskey and was otherwise under-employed. 6

Richards (Boyata 83) – Lacked the sharpness of late, which is likely to be a result of having rushed back from injury. Drifted offside a few times, but it was good to see him get the better of Agbonlahor. 6

Zabaleta – Captain and consumate professional. His commitment in all matches is an increasingly valuable asset when tiredness diminishes others. 7

Boateng – Looks a better player at centre-back. The one time he allowed Heskey go get a shot in was when he moved out to right-back – there’s a lesson for Mancini there. 6

Lescott – Dominant at centre-back and currently enjoying his best run of form for the club. Did more than anyone to repel any Villa threat. 7

Barry – His best game for us against Villa, though that isn’t saying a great deal. Efficient, despite tiring in the second half and playing a few loose passes. 6

Vieira – Effective throughout, which tells it’s own story of the threat offered by Villa. Continues to pose a threat at corners, noticeably with the flick which led to the opening goal. 6

Y Toure (Jo 79) – Sharp turn to provide the vital early breakthrough. Thereafter his strength and experience were too much for Villa. 7

Kolarov – Enjoyed a comfortable evening on the flank against an opponent making his debut. Sent over a couple of dangerous crosses and saw a shot go narrowly wide. 6

Balotelli (Tevez 60) – The quality of the goals is steadily increasing. This was a beauty and there were a few other quality touches. The now customary yellow card wasn’t as worrying as seeing him hobbling around with an injured knee. 7

Silva – Not always at his best but brought a quality to procedings which no-one could match. Remains as crucial as Tevez to a successful season. 8

Subs:

Tevez – Looked determined to get on the scoresheet. Passing was rarely a consideration. 6

Jo – Managed a shot on target and took up good positions. 6

Boyata – Interesting that he slotted into a three man back-line with Boateng and Lescott. 6

Man of the match: David Silva.