Blue Days

City’s run of good results against Villa continued in what was ultimately a comfortable victory. Mario Balotelli broke the deadlock with a delicious bicycle kick, and another second half blitz was capped by James Milner’s finest goal for the club.

The victory moved City to the top of the Premier League, a fitting reward for the club’s best ever start to a top flight campaign. One difference from last season is how Mancini can rest key players and still get the result. If we’re to mount a title challenge this will be a key factor.

Hart – The crucial save from Agbonlahor at 0-0 spared City from a much harder afternoon. Nonchalantly plucked a fierce Warnock drive from the air. 8

Richards (K Toure 64) – Another solid display with an inadvertent assist for the opening goal. It’s to be hoped Micah’s latest injury isn’t serious. 7

Undefeated City take on undefeated Villa in a game that threatens to be overshadowed by the upcoming Champions League and derby fixtures. It shouldn’t be.

To get three points City will need to be at their best against an Alex McLeish side that is likely to prove just as stubborn as David Moyes’ Everton. Patience may once again be required.

Hart – Little to do for large periods of the game. Finally called upon to make a save and it was an impressive one on one to preserve the clean sheet. 7

Richards – Noticeable how Micah brings more aggression to his game than Boateng. An accomplished return after missing the last couple of games. 7

Thanks to yet another away victory, City go into the game against Villa in good spirits. With Blackpool also paying us a visit at the weekend, all we need to do is bring our away form to Eastlands.

The key for Mancini will be to score the first goal, preferably before any anxiety sets in amongst the crowd. Villa’s spirits will be low after losing at home to 10 man Spurs and an early goal could enable City to capitalise.

City set up a huge game against Tottenham on Wednesday with an excellent victory over Aston Villa. It was never easy after conceding the first goal, but the team showed great character to come through with three points.

Fulop – The soft goal wasn’t the start anyone was hoping for. A nervous first-half was followed by a solid second period when the ball was flying across our area. 6

Zabaleta – Superb display of defensive skills stopped the crosses on his flank. Could have been better going forward with one poor delivery in particular during the first half. 8