(David Silva taps in City's third - image via Jan Kruger/Getty Images)
Their 3-0 win over West Bromwich Albion exhibited the creativity, acceleration and wastefulness in front of goal that characterised Barcelona's performance against the Blues in mid-week, but this time, it was City's turn to entertain.
The Blues were handed a welcome advantage inside two minutes when referee Neil Swarbrick sent off Gareth McAuley for a last-man challenge on Wilfried Bony, although Craig Dawson was in fact the real culprit of the illegal challenge. The FA have received fierce criticism for the weak standard of refereeing this term and Swarbrick's decision renders their list of embarrassments even longer.
The Baggies were able to frustrate their hosts with typical Pulis tenacity inside the first 20 minutes until City wrestled their way out of the shackles Lionel Messi forced them into three days ago. The Argentine single-handedly flung Manchester City out of the Champions League with an extraordinary display of vision and skill that night, but it was David Silva's turn to enchant on Saturday afternoon. The ubiquitous Spaniard registered 10 shots on goal, created 11 chances, completed 89% of his passes and netted his side's third in a hypnotising performance.
(David Silva picked up the Man of the Match award for a terrific display on Saturday afternoon - image via Jan Kruger/Getty Images)
The irresistible attacking football that propelled City to the title last term made a pleasant return. Wilfried Bony's strength provided the Blues with a dimension they have been lacking since Álvaro Negredo's departure and his emphatic turn and finish into the top corner to open the scoring would have been worthy of the Valencia striker's approval. Bony launched seven shots on goal, created three chances and won 100% of his tackles to further solidify his reputation among City fans.
It was a comprehensive victory for Manuel Pellegrini's side despite converting just 7% of their 46 attempts. There was an air of desperation in Sergio Agüero's game. Having missed a penalty at the Nou Camp on Wednesday night, his eagerness to score did not surprise, but the 26-year-old was unable to find the back of the net with any of his nine shots. The Argentine's work rate, agility and four completed take ons, however, proved why he is considered among the world's best strikers.
(Sergio Agüero had 9 shots on goal, but was unable to find the back of the net - image via Jan Kruger/Getty Images)
The Blues still have plenty to play for. Pride is on the line for Manuel Pellegrini's men in these last eight games, and when Fernando scores the club's 1000th Premier League goal, it's clear that anything can happen between now and the end of the season.
