Possibly the most frustrating 90 minutes I have ever endured. Even more so than back in the day when watching an average team put in a lack-lustre display was the norm. Today is different, with the talent and class at our disposal, going into any game and failing to score is a huge disappointment.
We totally dominated the game in terms of possession although there was no clear cut chances to score, apart from a corner that went through Tevez' legs but the ball came at him quick and he couldn't adjust.
Alexander Kolorov had by far his best game for City, he looked our biggest threat on several occasions from open play and set pieces. I think Kolarov possibly had more touches than anyone in a City shirt and looked quick, bright and incisive. It looked like only a matter of time before we broke the deadlock.
Jerome Boateng started on the other side and looked comfortable on the ball and showed surprising technical ability with a controlled volley. His display was encouraging and this was certainly one of his better performances, although he does lack the raw pace and power provided by Micah Richards.
After Darren Bent's inevitable goal, we looked even more dominant. It was almost like being an Arsenal fan when we played at the Emirates. We had all the possession and came forward with wave after wave of attack only to be thwarted by a very strong and disciplined defence ( including our beloved Richard Dunne). Despite all of our possession we had nothing to show for it, each attack was predictable and looked very easy to defend against. We had no real width despite the best efforts from Kolarov.
We had too many players who didn't look anywhere near their best, David Silva looked a yard of the pace, Yaya lacked ambition and Tevez work rate was not matched with the class we've consistently seen this season. Most disappointingly Gareth Barry once again couldn't silence his Villa park critics and put in a poor and tired display.
We started with Dzeko leading the line and his link up play was good, he looked strong and showed good feet on numerous occasions. As the game progressed Dzeko seemed to pull out more to the left which deemed him virtually ineffective, he was supplying the crosses that he should have been on the end of.
The late introduction of Adam Johnson made us look more potent. He kept the much needed width and as ever looked dangerous running at his full back. The final product never really cam, a few good crosses were unanswered and a long range shot from the unlikely Nigel De Jong was deflected onto the post.
Joe Hart may have done slightly better with the goal and some may argue that Kolarov could have reacted quicker. Either way, teams will score goals against us this season and its our ability to regroup and bounce back from that on which we'll be judged.
In summary I think too many of our better players weren't on their game. Forget a weaker side against Notts County, I'd go with the same starting 11 and get them to start working as a unit. Roles need defining Wdefining with regards to creation, width and defensive responsibilities.
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