Alex Smithies 7
Collected a number of crosses comfortably and came off his line quickly to smother Conor Chaplin's first-half chance.
Leandro Bacuna 8
An assured outing after his wobble there last weekend. Has to be appreciated just how much he is doing for the team in a position he doesn't love.
Sean Morrison 8
Back to his classy best, in both defence and attack. Screamed orders all night, far more vocal than what we have seen on the pitch. Led from the front.
Curtis Nelson 8
Another brilliant display. Unflappable in the air and quashed every attack that came his way.
Joe Bennett 9 (star man)
His best display of the season by a country mile, at both ends of the pitch. Sent in a barrage of pinpoint crosses and made dangerous runs all night. Top, top outing.
Harry Wilson 8
His twinkle toes won City the first penalty, dancing between the defenders. Made a couple of threatening runs before smashing home City's third. What a super strike.
Marlon Pack 8
Played such a vital role, given the lack of a third midfielder. Sat deep, patrolled and shipped the ball on quickly. Executed his role to perfection.
Joe Ralls 9
Looked a million dollars in a midfield two. Was the heartbeat of the game, controlling possession when needed and releasing wingers and strikers at will. Excellent display. Scored the penalty.
Junior Hoilett 8
Scored that all-important first goal and made a number of key contributions in the wide areas throughout the evening. A confidence-booster, for sure.
Kieffer Moore 7
Put himself about all evening, winning aerial battle after aerial battle. Had a couple of glaring chances saved but did well to make them in the first place.
Robert Glatzel 7
Ran and ran all night and fashioned a couple of really good chances for himself. Saw a little bit of interplay with Moore which should point at encouraging things to come.
Subs
Sheyi Ojo (on for Glatzel 67) 6 - Looked neat and tidy when he came on, zipped about a bit and kept the ball nicely.
Gavin Whyte (on for Wislon 79) 6 - Great to see him given an outing, looked busy enough during his cameo.
Will Vaulks (on for Ralls 86) NA
