Manchester City have claimed the first scalp of the new season with a 3-2 win over Chelsea in the Community Shield at Villa Park.
Fernando Torres handed Chelsea a lead five minutes before the break, but they were reduced to ten men when Branislav Ivanovic was dismissed after 42 minutes.
Three goals in 12 second-half minutes handed City a 3-1 lead, and although Chelsea added a late consolation through Ryan Bertrand, the Premier League champions were always comfortable.
Here, Sports Mole dissects the 90 minutes of action between the two sides.
Chelsea statistics
Shots 9
On target 5
Possession 46%
Corners 5
Fouls 14
Manchester City statistics
Shots 13
On target 9
Possession 54%
Corners 9
Fouls 14
Was the result fair?
Just about. Chelsea made the better start to proceedings, although City grew into the opening half as it developed. The first goal certainly come against the run of play, while the dismissal of Ivanovic undoubtedly changed the course of the match. City also scored against the run of play in the second period, but they were always comfortable as the match developed.
Chelsea's performance
Ever so bitty. There were some good signs for the Blues, the performances of Torres and Ramires to name but a few, but the likes of Eden Hazard and Juan Mata failed to influence the match. John Obi Mikel's passing was also wayward in the middle of midfield. But it could all have ended so differently had they kept 11 men on the field.
Manchester City's performance
It was far from a perfect performance from City, but there were some huge positives for Roberto Mancini's side. Carlos Tevez returned to the fold looking sharper and leaner, while Yaya Toure remained such a force in the middle of midfield. However, they were caught out at times in defence and had looked short of ideas in the early stages of the second half.
Sports Mole's man of the match
Carlos Tevez: The Argentinian has returned to the fold with a seemingly new attitude, and having clearly shed a few pounds. He ran all day, and scored a brilliant effort to send his side into a 2-1 lead.
Referee performance
It has hardly a straightforward afternoon for Kevin Friend. He had a number of challenges to contend with throughout the match, but he did get the big decision correct by sending Ivanovic from the field. However, he was lenient late on when Ramires felled David Silva – and the Brazilian should have walked.
Biggest gaffe of the game
Such a prize would have to go to Ivanovic. Whether or not the actual challenge deserved a red card is a moot point - the intent of the tackle gave the referee a decision to make. And it cost his side.
What next?
Chelsea: Chelsea open their Premier League campaign with a trip to Wigan Athletic next weekend.
Manchester City: City begin the defence of their Premier League title with a home clash against newly-promoted Southampton.
Matt Law
