VMC Post Match Reaction After Rovers Four One-er

Roberto Mancini appeals for calm and feet on the ground. And he's right, we've won nothing....yet...

It's difficult for City fans who only 10 years ago were emerging from a third division hell not to be absolutely thrilled with their team's standing in mid January.

But after another accomplished win by his injury and absence laden squad, Mancio prefers to stay focused on the short term.

Roberto Mancini:

'It is nice being in fourth now but it doesn't count for anything at this moment. It's important we finish in the top four at the end of the season.

'It's important we continue our run and keep winning games if possible, and improve game after game. Every game is difficult and the next match at Everton will be tough too.'

And of the squad's present limitations in depth with Bridge, Lescott, Onuoha, Toure, Adebayor, Johnson and Ireland all absent:

'We must prepare for every game very well otherwise it is difficult - preparation is everything. I want all my players to be playing well so I can bring players in and rest others when necessary.

'Patrick Vieira will be a good player for us but I didn't want to risk him tonight because he needs a little more time to recover from his calf injury. He will do well for us, I'm sure.'

Sam Allardyce:

Begrudging as ever...

'We have only seen one goal that Manchester City have actually created. That was Tevez's last, that was magic. The rest were avoidable and that is really poor from our point of view rather than Manchester City's outstanding players using their outstanding ability.

'We didn't make it tough enough for them. We have to look at ourselves and say we haven't done the job defensively today to stay in the game.'

Benjani:

The big Zimbabwean led the line brilliantly...

'I've always wanted to see out my career at City. I have six months left on my current deal and it would be nice if I could get another year or so. The only thing that is important to me is to fight hard for the right to play.

'I love the role I've had in recent weeks. I think it suits my game because I love a physical battle but the good thing is that when one player goes out, another comes in and does just as well - those are the ingredients of a very good team...we need to take each game as it comes but we feel we can beat anyone at the moment.'

Bluemooner, Vital Manchester City:

'Richards goal was **cking awesome.

'That's the best and longest one/two I've ever seen resulting in a goal.'

Sir Troyster, Vital Manchester City:

'You get the feeling with Mancini that he has a plan and it must be followed with military precision, and all those that don't listen or let lapses of concentration interrupt the squads karma will be given the hairdryer treatment.

'I would assume that if you keep getting the simple things wrong time and time again then you will find your self sat on the Berti or worse, possibly even shipped out on loan or to another club permanently. Up to now I like what I see of Mancini's game plan and long may it continue.'

VMC City Video Link: Nigel De Jong Post Rovers Win

VMC City Video Link: Mancio Post Rovers Win

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