Player ratings: Sunderland v Manchester City

Given – Despite the territorial domination of Sunderland in the first-half, the former Newcastle man had little to do other than focus on his kicking. 6

Richards – One of the few to try and take the game to the opposition during the first half. Still lacks a subtle touch, but used his strength well. 6

Kompany – Was caught to far away from Jones for their goal. Otherwise solid with one beautifully timed tackle on Bent leaving the England aspirant to make an air shot. 6

Lescott – Once again solid throughout. Joleon is now putting in the consistent performances we’ve been hoping for. 7

Bridge – Apparently had a knee twinge which forced him off early. Wasn’t able to get forward enough prior to his departure. 6

Zabaleta – Mancini’s Mr Utility started in midfield, before switching to left-back then finally right-back. The defensive positions were the better ones for him in this game. 7

de Jong – Very busy and determined, but we needed more forward passing from the Dutchman in the first-half. 6

Barry – Surprisingly at his most effective after the switch to left-back. Looked off the pace in the first-half, before getting forward to better purpose in the second period. He can be a clever passer and it’s always good to see him in advanced positions. 7

Wright-Phillips – Not a performance to win an improved contract. There was plenty of endeavour and a few good moments, but we needed something more to break through. 6

Bellamy – One audacious shot when everybody expected him to cross was the highlight. Kept plugging away even though the clinical finishing of Stamford Bridge eluded him. 7

Tevez – A victim of terrible service in the first-half, our top scorer enjoyed a better second period without ever looking like adding to his goal tally. 6

Subs:

Santa Cruz – Roque gave us the target man we were crying out for, and his link-up play was good. The finishing on the other hand… 6

Vieira – In fairness he’s no slower than Barry and, a couple of wayward passes aside, big Pat did his bit in keeping the pressure on Sunderland. His ability to win headers in the middle of the park was also useful. 6

A Johnson – Looked a threat from the moment he came on, and provided the game with a moment of footballing beauty. 8

Man of the match: Did he mean it? Of course he did.  Adam Johnson.