Verdict: Manchester City 3 Newcastle United 1

City eased to a record breaking eleventh win in twelve league games courtesy of two penalties either side of a Micah Richards strike. As expected, Newcastle proved to be well organised and dangerous on the counter, yet City were once again worthy winners.

Vincent Kompany returned to the defence and aside from one careless loss of possession the captain organised the team well. Joleon Lescott, buoyed by his excellent England performance, continued to step out and break up play whenever possible.

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Player ratings: Manchester City v Newcastle United

Hart – An excellent low save from Demba Ba when the game was goalless made this a more comfortable afternoon than it might have been. 7

Richards – Great flicked finish for the second goal and won the second penalty with a typically powerful run. 61% of his passes were completed in the opposition half, illustrating how Mancini encourages Micah to attack. 8

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Verdict: Newcastle United 1 Manchester City 3

City wasted no time in returning to winning ways as two goals in the opening six minutes set the blues on their way to a double over a highly competitive Newcastle side. Once again Carlos Tevez was the talismanic hero with an assist and two goals to seal the victory.

Tevez intercepted a poor pass from Krul and played in Barry who finished with a sharp shot between the Newcastle keeper’s legs. A couple of minutes later and another poor pass by the home side again saw our captain bearing down on goal.

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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

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