Manchester City got back to winning ways as they notched up a comfortable 2-0 victory over a Watford team who seldom threatened to score against the Sky Blues. Although they were on the back of a 3-2 win over Everton, the belief or zest was missing from the Hornets. City were comfortable throughout and did not have to break a sweat to notch up the victory. As usual, they enjoyed the lion’s share of the possession and were clinical enough on either side of the break to get the required goals.
BRAVO- 6/10
Literally had nothing to do all game. With his foot or with his hands. Had to be alert to palm away a Capoue shot in the second half. A breather after severe criticism.
ZABALETA- 8/10
The Argentine warrior never ceases to amaze. Hardly has anything left to prove but his passion and commitment towards the club still egg him on every second of the 90 minutes. Complete performance. Well taken goal and always an offensive threat.
OTAMENDI- 7/10
Was commanding at the heart of defence. Can be reckless and bewildering at times but is a real central defender in terms of approach. Shackled the forwards well.
KOLAROV- 7/10
Nervous glances all around as he as he was named in the starting eleven. But it was smooth sailing for the left footed winger/fullback/centre-back/midfielder as the toothless opposition attack virtually left them with nothing to defend. Nonetheless, the clean sheet would have served a world of good.
CLICHY- 6/10
Was given a hard time by Amrabat when the Watford man shifted wide and showed his strength and dribbling ability. But was a reliable presence up the field.
GUNDOGAN-6.5/10
Was quietly effective and turned over possession linking the likes of Toure to Silva and De Bruyne but had to substituted with an injury to the knee, which at this moment, looks to be a pretty serious one. Huge blow for City.
TOURE- 7/10
Was willing to drop between the centre-halves to receive passes and play those little one-twos to keep the game going. Put in a fair shift although his defensive acumen is not at the same level as during the initial days, which is understandable.
SILVA- 7/10
City’s own El Mago. Was always ready to receive the ball and find pockets of space in front of the defenders. His link up play with De Bruyne was a delight to watch on the left-hand side. Capped off his 200th appearance with a goal.
DE BRUYNE- 7/10
The Belgian was all over the pitch. Popping up in spaces and unleashing penetrative passes. Put in a brilliant chipped pass for Zabaleta’s goal.
STERLING- 7/10
Quiet first half where he was anonymous. But seemed a different player after the break. Giving Holebas a torrid time and threatening to slice the Watford defence.
NOLITO- 6/10
Asked to play as a false 9, he worked his socks off and never gave the defenders a chance to take a breather. Had a hand in the first goal.
SUBSTITUTES
FERNANDO- 7/10
NAVAS- NA
SANE- NA
