Manchester City did what they had to do at the KCOM Stadium as they managed to get over the line via a 3-0 win over bottom of the table Hull City. The Tigers dug in deep and frustrated the visitors for a large part of the match but with around 20 minutes to go, things unfurled for them after Sterling’s burst of pace invited a foul in the box and Yaya made it 10/10 from the spot for City. Goals from Kelechi Iheanacho and an own goal from Curtis Davies followed, which saw things come to a tepid end with a demoralising loss for Hull.
Let us take a look at how the Hull players performed.
BRAVO- 6/10
Had precious little to do other than a couple of feeble attempts from distance. But almost gifted the home side the lead after rushing out to punch a ball away. Decision-making remains sketchy.
SAGNA- 7/10
Was solid defensively and added optimum support up top. Will be determined to prove himself with no talks of a contract extension in sight. Made a vital goal-line clearance.
OTAMENDI- 7.5/10
Extremely physical battle with Mbokani. But fared well overall. A couple of crunching tackles. The Sky Blues lack a similar boisterous player in defence and he is needed at times like these.
STONES- NA/10
Suffered, what seemed like a knock to his knee, and was replaced by Kolarov early on. City will hope it is not a serious one.
CLICHY- 7/10
Constantly up and down the pitch. Did his job fairly well.
FERNANDINHO- 7.5/10
Immediately into the starting line-up after serving a 3-man suspension for a chokeslam attempt on Fabregas.
TOURE- 9/10
Ticked the play over with his short and accurate passing. Dropped in between the centre-backs to provide support and kept a cool head to slot in the deadlock breaker.
STERLING- 7.5/10
A tale of two halves. Performs better on the wings and had an excellent second half. His burst of pace earned the penalty while a similar run brought about the own goal from Davies right at the end.
NOLITO- 6/10
Failed to make an impression. Huffed and puffed throughout the 57 minutes in different positions but just wasn’t his day.
SILVA- 7.5/10
His usual fluttering self. Looking for avenues with the ball and popping up in pockets of spaces. Provided an assist.
DE BRUYNE- 9/10
No goals for the Belgian. But another masterful display. City will be delighted to have him on their side. Perfectly measured display, especially in the 2nd half. Man of the Match.
SUBSTITUTES
KOLAROV- 6.5/10
Given a tough time by Mbokani but held on.
IHEANACHO- 6/10
Got the goal as he so often does coming on from the bench.
