The Manchester City Project

Manchester City made several changes to the side that were beaten 2-0 against the Orlando Pirates on Saturday for the trip to play the Kaizer Chiefs on Tuesday night. Shaun Wright-Phillips, Wayne Bridge, Stephen Ireland and Gareth Barry all played a part in the match. Stephen Ireland was named captain in the first half.

The Kaizer chiefs were largely depending upon long range efforts, their first came after 2 minutes when Mathebula’s effort flew over Taylor’s crossbar. City had the better of the half however; Shaun Wright-Phillips was excellent in the opening stages and created a number of chances and attacking moves. Gareth Barry gave a fine display – athletically reinforcing the defence when required and troubling the Chief’s defence with several runs. One of which came on the half hour when Caicedo put the England player through on goal, only to be thwarted by Khune the Chief’s goalkeeper. The move however turned into a counter attack that resulted in a good move ending with Motaung Junior hitting the side netting. Just before the break Ireland converted a low cross to take a 1-0 lead at half time. There were few chances in the closing stages but City had a let-off with nine minutes to go when Kaizer Motaung Jr failed to find the target from 15 yards. The home side continued to apply the pressure in the final 10 minutes with several shots going astray as City's young defense tired.

Gareth Barry was pleased with his first performance in City blue: "I was delighted to get out and feel good. Training is different but I'm getting used to it... ...I signed a five-year deal and think I'll play in the Champions League with City."

Kaizer Chiefs coach Vladimir Vermezovic was disappointed with the result and the Chiefs performance in front of goal but he did gain some positives from the match: “It is true that Man City were too strong for us, but we had some opportunities to score and that is good... ...Overall I would say we did not play so good, but I am satisfied with some things and other things I know we can be better. But it is a long road ahead and this is just part of the journey.”

City manager Hughes was pleased with another tough work out in the Vodacom Challenge: “It was another good workout for us and once again we came up against good opposition. It was a great atmosphere in the stadium and we were delighted to be able to give more players some game-time and see them all come through unscathed.”

“We have actually all been commenting on the atmosphere that the South African crowds can generate. It is stimulating for the players. Games at this stage of the season can sometimes have no energy, but that doesn’t happen in South Africa, there is huge enthusiasm for the game in this country and that has been recognised by us.”