Hull didn't score on the break against us, it was a penalty. There is no reason why Johnson (who regardless of his passing can always tackle, expect a yellow card though) and Garrido necessarily have to play badly just because they have done in the recent past, in the not too distant past of last season they were both good players for us. We should at least hope they play well.
Sorry, I wasnt quite clear - I was more meaning they sat back and went to score on the break - which they did, the harsh penalty being won after a break forwards. Hull generally played defensively (though admittedly they were forced to). Agree about that re Johnson especially. I think he is just not match fit after the summer injury and a lack of game time
I can't remember the last time I felt less optimistic going into a game. My hopeful side is thinking that maybe we could keep the loss down to two goals. Anyone got a bit of bravado or logic that could inspire me to think more optimisticaly?
There is always a chance in football, look at all the giant killing acts over the years, they might hit the woodwork 10 times, have three perfectly legitimate goals ruled out for offside and then they might score a own goal in the 93rd minute - see it's easy.
Well I seriously hope that we cut out some of the defensive mistakes as aguero is bang on form, otherwise our goal difference could suffer - that in itself has worsened in the last three games
A very fair assessment of NCFC by Gary Gowers on 'Blue Moon', a Man City fans forum. One thing about GG - he always tells it like it is and that's a trait I admire http://www.bluemoon-mcfc.co.uk/News/Article.aspx?id=439#.UnN9uHAtz0Q
Great!!! Apparently Joe Hart has been dropped for tomorrows game. So the Mancs will have that lanky streak of piss Pantillimon in goal, he is bound to have the game of his life and secure the number 1 spot!
I'm depressed enough, just our luck though, we could have done with a vs Chelsea style defending balls up.
Hughton said josh would be in the squad in his press conference would be great for them both to be involved... Great experience
I don't see Josh Murphy tearing up Zabletta in the same way I could see Jésus Navas tearing up Garrido. We do have individual quality in the squad who can score goals: Hooper who scored so many for Celtic, Ricky who scored so many for Sporting CP and the experience of Elmander. If Leroy Fer, Jonny Howson and John Ruddy have nothing less than an amazing game then their involvement will be pivotal in any upset at the Etihad I feel. Players like Johnson, Garrido and Rusty have all played well in the past (I hope Snodgrass is involved too if he is ok) so here's to hoping our players find their form and we play well as a team, then maybe, just maybe we can give Man City a run for their money (which they have plenty of). I know we don't have Tettey or Redmond now along with Elliott Bennett but with some character and some truly out-of-this-world form I think we can surprise everyone, although I'll wait until the teamsheets are out before I commit to anything. OTBC!
Just seen this on twitter - be careful (again) what you wish for (Tongue very much in cheek when he posted that!)
Cut the supply line in the middle Toure I'd say keep two players constantly pressing him, contain Silva who seems to create everything and keep someone mobile to hassle Aguero and we might prevent a lot from happening, then there is all the other star players they have! The problem we have is we're too zonal and nippy players with clever movement can break the offside trap, the layers tactic works providing we have control of the midfield and have forced the opposing team back to their own half.