Player ratings: Newcastle United v Manchester City

Hart – Stood up well to a more rigorous workout than usual. One mistaken attempt to punch clear a cross was the only error. Needs to rein in the long clearances until we’ve got a target man. 7

Boateng – Gutierrez caused Jerome more problems than he ought to. Still not found his best form and conceded too many free-kicks. 6

Kompany – Carroll was a real handful for our central defenders. Vincent stood up well and marshalled those around him. 7

Lescott – Less of a leader than Kompany, but still very much involved, as the ball was repeatedly launched into our penalty area. 7

Kolarov – Defended better than against Everton, but his distribution was shocking in the second half. Passes ranged from the over ambitious to basic sloppiness. 6

De Jong – No surprise to see Nigel keeping a relatively low profile. His influence was reduced by Newcastle’s tendency to hit high balls into Carroll and co. 6

Y Toure (Vieira 83mins) – A steady, rather than spectacular performance. The runs rarely amounted to anything and Yaya wasn’t able to impose himself on the game sufficiently. 6

Barry – Started with a goal and continued his recent good form in the first half, making timely interceptions and keeping us ticking over. Less conspicuous in the second period when Barton was gaining the upper hand. 7

Silva (A Johnson 70mins) – The most skilfull player on show. Fought for the ball, found space, and rarely misplaced a pass. 7

Tevez (Balotelli 86mins) – Talismanic once again. The third goal had an element of fortune with two deflections, but was just reward for a typically hard working performance. 7

Milner – An early cross for Tevez’s first goal was the initial highlight. Could have made more of a couple of promising opportunities in the second half, but worked hard for the team and won the praise of the manager. 6

Subs:

A Johnson – Showed his quality with a couple of runs and well judged passes. One to Tevez resulted in the crucial third goal. 7

Vieira – As the third goal went in, so the reassuring figure of Patrick jogged onto the pitch to close the game out. 6

Balotelli – Just enough time to collect an unwarranted booking.

Man of the match: Carlos Tevez.