Hart - Two superb saves, the first from Berbatov could well have been a match-saving one. Excellent presence and command of the area. 8

Zabaleta - Beaten on a couple of occasions early but was more assured as the game progressed, ultimately winning his battles. 7

Kompany - Marshalled Berbatov extremely well for the most part. An assured performance and raised the legitimate question of whether he, not Tevez, should be captain of the side. 8

Lescott - Missed a couple of good opportunities to get on the scoresheet but was solid alongside Kompany in what is fast becoming a developing partnership. 7.5

Kolarov - Huge question marks over his recent performances heading into the game but held his own and was constantly involved going forward. 7

de Jong - Showed what was missed at Anfield. Of course he is such an integral part of the defence, but often overlooked is the part he plays in an attacking sense which was evident in abundance. 8

Barry - Solid yet unspectacular, but his ability to keep the ball and re-cycle possession are why Mancini favours him. 7

Silva - Not quite the game we expected. Worked hard and tried to create but the final pass or touch often eluded him. 6.5

Yaya Toure - Surely the most dominant performance of the season. Effectively played two roles and caused United's back line problems all afternoon. The goal was well taken too. 9

Johnson - With Yaya Toure the ‘go to' option, the out ball to Johnson was not often utilised and he was on the periphery for much of the game. 6

Balotelli - Disciplined and patient, he chose the right options more often than not. Played close to Yaya Toure in a formation and approach that helped win the game. 7.5

Subs:

Vieira - Brought on late to shore up the defensive system. Little impact either way. 6

Wright-Phillips - Often a tormentor of Evra and United, he provided a couple of brief cameos late on when needed. 6.5