Player ratings: Queens Park Rangers v Manchester City

Hart – Pulled off a great double save regardless of a linesman’s flag and spectacularly diverted a Joey Barton drive around the post. No chance with the goals and had to rely on the woodwork in one of his busier afternoons. 7

Richards – Enjoyed the tussle with Wright-Phillips but his passing was below usual standards. Could have done with more help when Traore overlapped. 6

Savic – QPR were quick to exploit Stefan’s slight lack of height and this is a concern. There were a couple of rash tackles which can be more easily eradicated. A tough game for his first Premier League start. 6

Lescott – As the senior defender Joleon did his best to organise those around him. His own performance was solid enough. 7

Kolarov – Superb cross for the winner was one of his finest for the club (and there’s been a lot of crosses). Defensively did ok though there were still too many balls coming in from the flanks. 7

Barry (Balotelli 75) – Not able to dominate an energetic Rangers midfield. Needed to show a bit more given he’d had the night off in Spain. 6

Y Toure – A fine headed winner was the obvious highlight. Not at his sharpest elsewhere and perhaps needs to be rotated after Champions League games. 6

Milner – Brought welcome industry to the side and was involved in the opening two goals. Just the kind of character we need for fixtures such as this. 7

Silva – No surprise to see him looking jaded after going off injured on Wednesday. Still managed to score a fine goal courtesy of a first touch that took him clear of the QPR defence. 7

Aguero (A Johnson 68) – A couple of fine shots whistled just off target. Otherwise this was another of the Argentine’s quieter games. 6

Dzeko (K Toure 88) – Nearly gifted QPR a second goal with a poor pass, then suddenly switched on his A game. Scored a beauty with a fine run and perfect near post finish, then laid on the second with an excellent cross. 7

Subs:

A Johnson – Not able to get into game in an attacking sense. On the plus side Adam was able to give Micah some support. 6

Balotelli – Booked for a lamentable dive in an otherwise quiet showing. 6

K Toure – Rightly brought on to close out the final few minutes, which we did. 6

Man of the match: Not an obvious candidate, so for his all round game – James Milner.