City beat Blackburn to consolidate fourth
Monday, April 25, 2011
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Edin Džeko's first Premier League goal was enough to strengthen Manchester City FC's grip on England's final UEFA Champions League spot as they won 1-0 at Blackburn Rovers FC.
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Manchester City FC moved four points clear of Tottenham Hotspur FC in the race for England's final UEFA Champions League spot after a 1-0 win at Blackburn Rovers FC.
Edin Džeko's 75th-minute strike was enough for Roberto Mancini's men at Ewood Park. It was the Bosnian international's first Premier League goal and consigned Blackburn to a tenth straight top-flight game without victory, with Steve Kean's side sitting just a point above the relegation zone.
City started well and David Silva hit the post with an instinctive effort early on. The hosts were struggling to contain the visitors, but held out until half-time and were markedly improved after the break. However, City remained dangerous and took the lead when Silva's scuffed effort was half-cleared to substitute Džeko, who placed his shot to Paul Robinson's left.
The victory brings the FA Cup finalists within five points of third-placed Arsenal FC, with the Manchester club also holding a game in hand. City have five league games remaining as they bid to qualify for the UEFA Champions League for the first time, one of those matches against nearest rivals Tottenham on 10 May.