Tuesday 26 August 2014

Manchester City 3 - 1 Liverpool: Player Ratings

Player Ratings

Joe Hart - 7
Shot stopping abilities prevented former City-striker Daniel Sturridge from scoring on two occasions, and the England stopper almost made an incredible double-stop to deny Liverpool a consolation. Looks confident.

Pablo Zabaleta - 7.5
Replaced Kolarov in City's back line and provided all the grit, determination and attacking intent that excited the Etihad faithful last term. A brilliant performance marred by an unlucky own-goal. 

Vincent Kompany - 7.5
Made a true captain's block to deny Liverpool in the first half and commanded the back four in a solid display. Outdone by the trickery of Sturridge on one occasion, but Hart was on hand to save the Belgian's blushes.

Martin Demichelis - 7 
Composed yet again, but was caught out by Sturridge's pace late in the second half and almost awarded Liverpool a second goal. 

Gaël Clichy - 7
Preferred to Kolarov at left-back for his pace, and he did well to nullify the threat of Raheem Sterling.

Fernando - 7
Reads the game terrifically and is often in the right place at the right time. His energy and tenacity in the centre of midfield prevented Steven Gerrard and Jordan Henderson from influencing the play as much as they'd have liked to.

Yaya Touré - 7
Another low-key performance from the Ivorian who controlled City's attacking play from a deeper role yet again. The presence of two strikers will prevent Yaya from wandering into the forward positions he excels in, but his strength still proved vital in the middle.

Samir Nasri - 7
Instrumental in the possession City enjoyed and contributed in attack, too. Low-key, but extremely effective.

David Silva - 6.5 
A quiet one for the Spanish magician. Did nothing wrong, but was unable to supply the creativity and invention he usually offers. Substituted.

Edin Džeko - 6.5
Forced off with a leg injury after a fairly quiet display. Expected to return to the side quickly.

Stevan Jovetić - 8
The Montenegrin is definitely an exciting talent, and his two goals demonstrated his abilities in a terrific display. Full of confidence and expected to play a huge role this season. 

Substitutes

Jesus Navas - 7
With Liverpool pushing forward for goals, the Spaniard's pace gave City a good outlet on the right. Provided a great pass for Agüero's goal.

Sergio Agüero - 7
Won't be happy with the title of 'super sub', but that's what he's proving to be!

Fernandinho - 6
Helped City see out the victory.