Desperate to seek revenge for Manchester City`s 3-2 over his Blackpool side earlier this season, Ian Holloway was refused the chance to celebrate as City defeated the defiant Seasiders 1-0 with Adam Johnson`s deflected strike proving enough.
The Tangerines have been a refreshing change for the Barclays Premier League and there never-say-die attitude along with fluent attacking play caused City concern for the second time this season.
However, City`s superiority caused the away side enough problems and Adam Johnson finally settled the nerves with his left footed strike, deflecting of Crainey to bypass Pool keeper Kingston.
Shortly after City`s, usually potent striker, Carlos Tevez had the chance to double our lead when Yaya Toure was bundled over in the box. However, from 12 yards out Tevez dragged his penalty wide.
The chances for the home side were frequent, but neither Tevez, Silva nor any other blue shirted player could breach the opposing goal.
Usually the architect David Silva, also had two fantastic chances to get his second Premier League goal of the season- his other coming against Blackpool- but his lack of composure was telling.
The second half continued in the same vein, with chances falling freely, but not being converted.
On another day Carlos Tevez could easily have netted a hat-trick, but after substitute James Milner threaded through an inch-perfect cross, the striker`s shot was sent wide again, proving this really wasn`t to be his day.
A late surge from Blackpool and in particular the pacey winger Matt Phillips caused the City defence unwanted problems but fortunately they were manageable.
After the defeat to Everton prior to Christmas, City`s return has been a terrific nine points from three must win games.
A win in the first game of 2011 was needed and hopefully this is only the start to a great year.
Player Ratings
Hart-7
Always on hand to stop Blackpool’s attack.
Boateng-6
Looks uncomfortable at times defending, but he needs the chance to adjust to the Premiership.
Kompany-6
Not his best day at the office.
Lescott-7
Working well with Kompany.
Kolarov-5
Couldn’t deal with the pace of Matt Richards.
De Jong-7
Typical tough tackling, no margin for error, display.
Barry-6
Looked a bit off the pace.
Y.Toure-5
Two great runs but for the other 82 minutes he was extremely poor.
Silva-7
Could have taken one of many chances. Lets hope his injury isn’t serious.
Johnson-7
Linked up well with the front men and scored the winner.
Tevez-5
His effort and endeavour was still there, but regarding finishing, we will just take it as a bad day a the office.
Zabaleta-6
Provided much needed cover.
Milner-6
Worked well when he came on.
Late sub who was nothing more than a statue.