Blue Days

City gave it their best shot and came up short as Peter Crouch led Tottenham to a top four finish with the only goal of a competitively fought game. The result saw The Smiths “Heaven Knows I’m Miserable Now” played over the PA in place of a lap of honour on the pitch. Such is City life.

Fulop – Demonstrated his shot stopping with excellent saves from Defoe and others. Came for and caught a couple of crosses. Only the up-and-under kicking style was a concern. 7

Zabaleta – Nullified the attacking threat of Bale excellently, but wasn’t able to contribute enough quality in the attacking part of his game. 6

And so to our cup final. At least that is how Roberto Mancini is describing tonight’s match against Tottenham, and nobody is arguing. If we win, we have another cup final on Sunday, but that’s beside the point. Nobody should look beyond Tottenham.

Given – Little chance with the goals, and even came for a couple of crosses to help an overworked defence battle the height of Crouch. Impeccable decision making on a difficult evening. 6

Richards – Did his best to get forward, but wasn’t able to replicate his goal from last weekend. Defensively he stayed strong, doing his best when asked to mark Crouch at set-pieces. 6

City went toe to toe with Spurs and came off second best in a hectic game that put a large dent in any ambitions to claim a Champions League place.

City head to White Hart Lane looking to get back to winning ways in what could be described as a 6-pointer between two sides looking to finish in the top four this season. Quite what the outcome will be is anybody’s guess as both sides mask inconsistent results with moments of attacking brilliance.