FA Cup verdict: Manchester City 5 Notts County 0

After a poor start City eventually cruised to victory and looked able to score at will by the final whistle. As much as the victory, the confidence boost of scoring a few goals was particularly timely after a difficult week.

The final score was harsh on County who had looked like taking the lead initially. City made arguably their slowest start to a game this season, with a spectacular shot by Karl Hawley rebounding off Joe Hart’s post being required to stir us.

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FA Cup player ratings: Manchester City v Notts County

Hart – Normally copes well with a player in front of him at corners. Not this time as Joe came and flapped a couple of times. Produced a top quality diving tip-over in the second half – one for the cameras. 6

Richards – Not quite so solid defensively as of late. Otherwise this was another powerful performance down the right flank, continuing his good form. 7

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Farewell and good luck to Kasper

Notts County have announced the signing of Kasper Schmeichel on a five year contract. The fee was undisclosed but is thought to be over a million.

Kasper was a great shot-stopper, with plenty of enthusiasm and self-belief by all accounts. If he also had his father’s height, then it’s unlikely we would be letting him go. The high point at City was his spell in the first team at the beginning of the Sven season, when he played in the side that completed the first half of the double over United.

Ultimately Sven went with Joe Hart that season and Kasper’s future has probably lain elsewhere ever since. The signing of Shay Given merely confirmed that. It’s therefore a slight irony that Sven is likely to be the the man behind him joining County.

Going to a League Two club is a big step down for Kasper, but a bold one in that there could be exciting times ahead. He enjoyed a good rapport with the fans while at Bury so there’s a chance he could become a bit of a folk hero down by the Trent. We wish him well.

Video:
YouTube compilation featuring saves against United