[Archived] News Article -> 2011/12 Full-Time: Manchester City 3 Rovers 0

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Rovers have slipped back into the bottom three as a result of a three-goal defeat away to Manchester City. The home side dominated proceedings and the result rarely looked in doubt and they collected the three points thanks to goals from Balotelli, Aguero and Dzeko.

City got off to a quick start and carved out several half-chances and nearly took the lead when Balotelli's first-time shot forced Robinson into a smart save. The Rovers keeper did well to get a strong hand down to his left, but he could do little to stop the Italian from scoring in the 30th minute when Balotelli latched onto a low cross to finish from close range.

Rovers could consider themselves lucky to go into the break only one down, but after the interval they persisted with the tactic of sitting back in an attempt to absorb the City pressure. City eventually doubled their lead in the 54th minute, but this time it was the result of poor keeping rather than quality attacking. Robinson flapped at a corner and, despite being under no pressure whatsoever, he could only push the ball straight to the feet of Aguero, who slammed the half-volley home. City continued to push forward and put the result beyond doubt when substitute Dzeko headed home from a few yards out.

City comfortably saw out the final few minutes as Rovers were unable to switch out of a defensive mindset, with their approach of damage limitation ultimately proving futile.

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