Well it wasnt pretty at times, but Johnsons goal was good enough to win any game. Derby did their best to stifle us in the middle of the park, but we invited that by playing Bianchi up front alone.
Derby were tough and strong and held well to their task of frustrating our fresh creativity. Of course referee Steve 'Bent' Bennet did his best to get them a point. His constant whistle blowing and unwarranted bookings of Manchester City players was a disgrace. It was one of those games when you just knew that if one of the visitors had collided with a tough blade of grass in our box, he would have pointed to the spot. I hate referees like that. At times I thought he was teaching our imports a lesson on how to behave in England.
Elano showed touches of sheer brilliance, despite the constant close attention and often unfair attention of two, sometimes three Derby players. His first tiem passing and vision is sublime, and he is raising the players around him. Its slick and its good to watch. The first half however as stop start for City who were met with strong tackling and pressing from a Derby team who will battle to the very end of their long first season back.
Johnson was a revelation last night. I thought he was a bit of a weak link against Wet Ham, but last night both he and Ireland demonstrated how far they have come since last season. At times they both looked world class.
Bianchi was strong up front and chased everything. He is far better int eh air than I thought, and despite teh fact he often had to come dep for the ball, stuck to his task admirably. I do hope we see Bianchi and Bojhinov up front together before long, particularly at home. With Petrov wide we can really stretch teams at the City of Manchester Stadium this season.
Dunne and Richards were tireless as always at the back, and whilst Dunne is always capable of the odd gaff; he's still worth his considerable weight in Gold.
The swift first time passing and linking is a joy to watch and I am so happy jsut to see a City side again capable of it. I havent been so excited about a City team since 81-82 probably. I know its still early days, but I have to say the signs are very good. We have some great players, both new and Academy. There is an excitement and optimism amongst the fans that has been missing for a long time. Whatever the season brings at least we know it will be exciting and good to watch.
One Derby out of the way, roll on Sunday's. Whatever happens, we'll still be above the Rags on Sunday night. lol
