Match Reports

Four Goals, Four Wins, Unfourgettable

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A great spectacle was endured last night after terrific efforts by the grounds men to defy the blustery winds and icy cold. A sublime hat-trick from the unstoppable Carlos Tevez maintained Manchester City`s unbeaten run under Mancini, the point also lifted the blues to the much coveted fourth spot. Micah Richards was also on target with a phenomenal second for the blues, Blackburn`s consolation came from the under fire Pedersen just before Tevez`s hat-trick was sealed.


After taking the December player of the month award, the onus was on Tevez to perform again. Unfazed, Tevez strolled majestically across the field, battling to no end and striking the ball crisply to net his first hat-trick. The only potential black mark on what was another pleasing encounter would have been the end to a resurgent clean sheet run under the new manager. Unlikely it seemed, Pederson netted a consolation goal leaving culprits, Given and Kompany distraught and dismayed.


The 4-1 score line superbly portrays the magnificent effort brought about by the Blues side. Blackburn have been faltering for some time and are without a win in nine attempts. Contrast that to City, unstoppable since the humiliation at Spurs.


40,000+ battled the elements and were left feeling pulsated, talk of a title charge is now in the offing and with this fine run of form few would have a greater argument. The ease we carved open the opponents, the fluidity of the football, the determination and mindset of the players was inspirational. Blackburn were poor, but, City, at times, were in a class of their own.


Vieira was amongst those watching. However, as well as a pleasing smile on the outcome of the match, the French Midfielder would have left wondering whether this stint at City will prove any more influential than playing for Inter Milan in wake of the World Cup. The players Vieira will have to surpass are irremovable at the moment, Barry looked as effortless as ever in possession, De Jong was again destructive.


The defence were continuously working as a unit, and if it wasn`t for a rare combining error with Given and Kompany the clean sheet count would have increased. The Belgian teamed with young England hopeful Richards looked a fine match, combining attributes such as athleticism, speed, power and most importantly awareness of their surroundings.


A rare start for Benjani proved again instrumental in the first goal. Robinson created confusion when collecting the cross and he failed to deal with it, a scuffed shot then from “Adebayor in disguise” found Tevez who unsurprisingly found the net from close range. The goal was early and clearly set the tempo for the onrushing blues.


Despite the “total football” methods of Allardyce`s ten men behind the ball, City scored a second. A remarkable goal, from a surprise candidate. Richards rampaged through the heart of the Blackburn side, using sheer strength and determination Richards managed to soar the length of the pitch. Unchallenged, Richards found Benjani, again involved Benjani hit the post, but, unfortunately for Blackburn Richards pounced and scored a tremendous “near” solo effort.


Blackburn`s main second half motivation would be to prevent damage limitations. Only five minutes into the second half and their plan was undone. Tevez again combined with Benjani, after a cool pass found Tevez, he struck graciously into the top corner.


A reality check of concentration came next which left Mancini fuming. Pederson scored a fabulous curled effort to end the successive run of clean sheets.


Later than predicted and despite the setback we managed to score a fourth. A wonderful finish sealed a Tevez hat-trick that will clearly set the Manchester divide.


A successful day of work that we were fortunate went ahead. Unfortunately, we didn`t maintain a clean sheet run, but were looked extremely fluent and a more than capable top four side.

Player Ratings

Given-6
Had very little too do. Will look unpleased with a chipped pass to Kompany which created a Blackburn goal.

Zabaleta-7
Another strong combative performance from Zab. Tireless and proud to wear the shirt. Several rash tackles.

Richards-8
A phenomenal goal and a defensive masterclass. Much improved a centre-back and is forging a great partnership with VK.

Kompany-8
Despite the mistake, Kompany looked again that defensive stalwart. Timed tackles to perfection, leadership skills and awareness are all key attributes of his game.

Garrido-7
Much stronger than Sylvinho and a good, solid performance. Looks completely different defensively to the old Garrido.

De Jong-8
Complete. Effortless, Courageous and destructive. Starting to be recognised by others as a real driving force in the side.

Barry-8
Worked well with De jong and helped both the defensive and midfield units. Distribution is extremelly good.

Bellamy-7
Always a threat when on the ball. Unfortunate to be replaced and didn’t take it too well.

Petrov-6
A Curate’s egg. Some good stuff some bad stuff. Not one of his better games.

Benjani-7
Unbelievably was involved in the first three goals. A better performance than most expected.

Tevez-10
Outstanding, exceptional and right in form. A wonderful hat-trick sealed a complete performance from the striker. ‘Fergie sign him up’

Robinho-6
Created several chances when he came on. Went close himself and was unfortunate to have his goal chalked off.

Santa Cruz-6
Tried in vain. Was given several robust challenges but really wanted to score.

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