Player ratings: Everton v Manchester City

Hart – Will have been disappointed to see Distin’s header creep past his hands and into the net. Judgement in when to come out for the aerial onslaught was sound. 6

Zabaleta (Balotelli 81 mins) – Once again gave everything to the cause before coming off injured. It’s to be hoped he’s fit for Spurs and the Cup Final. 7

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Preview: Everton v Manchester City

Roberto Mancini heads to Goodison looking for his first points against David Moyes’ side. That fact alone is sufficient reason for City not to take game lightly.

Everton have been particularly up for games against us ever since Mark Hughes satisfied his obsession with Joleon Lescott. Tomorrow is unlikely to be any different with Lescott set to make his first appearance against the Toffees since joining City.

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Verdict: Manchester City 1 Everton 2

So much for a merry Christmas and a happy first birthday for Roberto Mancini. The City manager took a well aimed kick at the Lucozade bottles after Everton’s second to sum up another night of frustration against the Toffees.

Rather than sitting top of the league, such a game brings back fears of whether we will finish above one of last season’s top four to secure a Champions League place. We sit third, but with our rivals now having games in hand, our position is less convincing.

It all began so brightly with the news that Carlos Tevez had withdrawn his transfer request and was committed to the club, following a meeting with Khaldoon al Mubarak. The captain was once again able to lead the team out to a warm reception from the crowd.

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Player ratings: Manchester City v Everton

Hart – After conceding the two early goals Joe was a virtual spectator, not having to deal with even a corner. 6

Zabaleta – In the wars throughout, and still didn’t shirk a challenge. Needed to offer a little more invention when going forward once we were chasing the game. 6

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