After barely squeaking out a win against bottom of the table Reading, City fans were hoping and expecting the Blues to return to top form and win in a more dominating manner. Instead, it turned from bad to worse, losing 1-0 to Sunderland at the Stadium of Light.
City had plenty of chances through the game, but between brilliant goalkeeping from Sunderland’s goalkeeper Mignolet and some sloppy first touches and attempts at cute passes in Sunderland’s box, were unable to find the net. Sunderland’s only goal came early in the second half on a deep shot from former City player Adam Johnson, and it was a goal that should have been easily stopped by Joe Hart. Hart tracked the ball the entire way, but mistimed his jump, and the ball slid under his torso and into the corner of the net. Sunderland’s defense played spectacularly and confounded City’s attack. There were a few clear chances for City to score. The first was a run by Carlos Tevez, who had the ball knocked away from him and was knocked over himself just as he was about to get off a shot. The best opportunity was from Aguero, who was about 10 meters from the goal and had a clear shot, but Mignolet made a great save in his Man of the Match worthy performance. Subs came on for City with Dzeko in for Tevez, and Lescott in for Kolo Toure late, but the changes were not able to help bolster the offense.
City’s offense has looked lackluster the last two games, and Roberto Mancini will need to get more from them as they play at Norwich City on Saturday.
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