View From A Blue

Hart - He must have feared a painful evening after the first two goals whistled past him, but as those in front of him got to grips with the task, Hart was a solid final barrier. Made one good stop from Gotze, quickly out and spreading himself well, and his handling throughout was secure - 7 Richards [...]

Pantilimon - Did everything that was asked of him. Hesitant on one cross that Shaw whipped into the box but otherwise commanding in his area and out quickly to deny Rodriguez when through. Helpless for Osvaldo’s wonderstrike - 6 Zabaleta - Given a couple of problems by Rodriguez’s trickery and quick feet but at least he showed a willingness to fight. [...]

Pantilimon - Unfortunate with the goal that rebounded off him as he lay on the floor and the second West Brom strike was hit with such power from close range it would have been an exceptional stop had he prevented it – 6 Zabaleta - Very comfortable in possession, whether simply giving it to Navas or using [...]

Pantilimon - Was far busier than he might have expected, but saved well when he was called upon from distance and was out quickly at the feet of De Guzman when the Swansea midfielder wasted the visitors’ best chance - 7 Zabaleta - Created the final goal of the game for Nasri, which was just reward for his performance. Solid defensively, he was [...]

Hart – Made a couple of excellent stops in the second half, but was helpless with both of the goals. Authoritative in his area, he claimed crosses well and was a commanding figure. Manuel Pellegrini now faces a tricky selection dilemma ahead of Sunday’s game against Swansea – 7 Richards – We only saw him [...]