City and United cancelled each other out to the extent that even Fergie time passed without incident. Despite the hype claiming the huge significance of this derby, the reality is different at this relatively early stage of the season. In the overall league campaign, a draw was acceptable to both sides.
No doubt it was a poor spectacle for the many neutrals who tuned in, and the manager has had plenty of criticism for his tactics. Mancini will be unmoved, the result was satisfactory. In this regard Roberto is very much the Italian manager.
Continue Reading →
Hart – United’s two shots of menace were straight at him. Elsewhere Joe’s handling was sound and he remained in control of his area throughout. 7
Boateng (Kolarov 81mins) – Looking increasingly at home in the Premier League. Nothing spectacular from Jerome, but this was his soundest defensive performance so far. Error free. 7
Continue Reading →
City go into tonight’s game knowing that victory will move us level on points with United. Of course, there will always be other motivating factors in a game against the neighbours.
Thankfully we won at the weekend and the unwarranted pressure on both Roberto Mancini and the squad has been alleviated. Regardless of the result tonight our place in the top four is looking more comfortable thanks to Tottenham’s current form of 2 points from a possible 12.
Continue Reading →
Hart – Commanded his area well, ensuring the defence kept their focus when having to defend in the second half. 7
Boateng – Looked more at ease going forward from right-back. Jerome’s defending was also more solid than we’ve previously seen, with one perfectly executed penalty area tackle standing out. 7
Continue Reading →