Manchester City are back and how! After a run of 6 winless games, it was the Baggies who were expected to thwart the under confident Blues once again. But the detractors quickly went back into their shell once it was clear that Sergio Aguero had chosen this fixture to put his scoring boots back on. Two goals from Aguero and Gundogan on either side of the break was good enough to inflict a 4-0 defeat on a West Brom side who can’t seem to cope with Manchester City as opponents.
With City strengthening their position at the top of the table we look at how the players performed on the day.
BRAVO- 6.5/10
Did not have much to do. The Baggies applied zero pressure when the ball was at his feet which helped build his confidence. Was solid when called upon, which wasn’t a lot, to be honest.
FERNANDO- 6.5/10
A surprise selection at right-back, the Brazilian put in a solid shift in the unfamiliar position but had the adventure-bereft West Brom outfit to partially thank. Pep showed his propensity of shuffling his pack which has given a new lease of life to players like Fernando and Kolarov. Was booked, though.
STONES- 7/10
Solid when called upon, especially in the second half as the Baggies finally got round to attacking the City goal. Needs to be in form for Barcelona.
OTAMENDI- 7/10
Similar to Stones, cut down on his mistakes and was an assured presence. Made a world class tackle on McClean in the second half.
KOLAROV- 6.5/10
Not much to do defensively but was assured when called upon. Moved into midfield often and kept the flow of the passing going. But needs to sharpen his free-kick skills or let go of them now.
FERNANDINHO- 7.5/10
His loss in form was a major reason for the team performing below the usual standard but looked close to his best. Mopped up everything and sprayed the ball forward.
SILVA- 8/10
A characteristic Silva display. Popped up all over the pitch for the ball and found pockets of space and although wasn’t involved in the final moments of the goals, was instrumental in starting the attacks.
GUNDOGAN- 8.5/10
2 goals and an assist for the German playmaker. City need him in this form.
NOLITO– 7/10
Did his job well enough but needs to get out of the way of his teammate’s shots!
STERLING- 7.5/10
Started off brightly with his pace worrying the defence no end but his decision making was off on the day.
AGUERO- 9/10
MOTM display from the Argentine. Missed out on a hat-trick but turned provider for Gundogan. What wouldn’t City give for a similar display on Tuesday!
SUBSTITUTES
DE BRUYNE- 6.5/10
Had a quiet run-out but still found time for an assist.
NAVAS- 6/10
Nothing much to do.
GARCIA- NA/10
No time to mark
