Player ratings: Manchester City v Aston Villa

Fulop – The soft goal wasn’t the start anyone was hoping for. A nervous first-half was followed by a solid second period when the ball was flying across our area. 6

Zabaleta – Superb display of defensive skills stopped the crosses on his flank. Could have been better going forward with one poor delivery in particular during the first half. 8

Bridge – Didn’t look fully fit and struggled to last 90 minutes. Needed to get tighter on Young in the second-half and we’ll need a big improvement from Wayne on Wednesday. 5

Toure – Surprisingly Kolo struggled against Carew on the ground rather than in the air. Should have been tighter for the goal and the shot which hit the bar. Thereafter, Kolo was back on form. 7

Kompany – At the heart of the rearguard action in the second half which ensured Villa went home with nothing. Dominant in the air once again. 8

De Jong – Another disciplined performance in keeping Milner out of the danger area. Still sits a little to deep when we’re protecting a lead. 7

Vieira – A revelation after the poor display against Arsenal. Bossed the midfield during the first-half, and finally found his passing game. 8

A Johnson – Ultimately made the difference in the first half when he showed a great fleetness of foot. Once again tired in the second period and needs to get hold of Ireland’s personal trainer in the Summer. 7

Bellamy – Worked tirelessly in the second-half, helping out Bridge whenever he could. Got his reward with the goal that sealed it. Nice to see him go over and celebrate with Mancini – probably just wanted to put a stop to all the press stories. 7

Tevez – A noticeably more energetic performance during the first-half. Did Mancini’s comments in the press provoke a reaction? Looked pained after scoring and it’s to be hoped Carlos is fully fit for Wednesday. 7

Adebayor – Worked hard and held the ball up well, without ever completely breaking free of Villa’s defensive shackles. Looked a little rusty at times, which was no surprise having not trained properly during the week. 7

Subs:

Wright-Phillips – Great run to set up a goal for Bellamy. And it was on his unfavoured left flank. 7

Richards – Barely able to get a touch in the time he was on the pitch.

Man of the match: Patrick Vieira.