Player ratings: Birmingham City v Manchester City

Given – A brilliant double save in the first half was arguably even better than the penalty stop. His performance was a real birthday present to the manager. 9

Zabaleta – A steadier game from Pablo, with some good clearing headers. Going forward their was little attacking threat. We were crying out for a repeat of the cross for Santa Cruz he provided against Scunthorpe, but it never arrived. 6

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Verdict: Birmingham City 0 Manchester City 0

Mark Hughes’ side returned from St. Andrews with a draw thanks to the performance of Shay Given who left Birmingham’s James McFadden beating the ground in frustration following a second half penalty save.

Remarkably, City have moved up to fourth place despite a fourth consecutive league draw. This says more for the faltering results of those around them rather than any brilliance by the Blues. Once again, City looked a long way from being the collective sum of their individual parts.

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