Mancini encouraged despite setback

25 October 2010 06:47
Roberto Mancini believes his Manchester City side proved in defeat that they are serious Premier League title contenders on Sunday.[LNB] City were punished for the early sending-off of Dedryck Boyata as rivals Arsenal ran out 3-0 winners at Eastlands.[LNB]The result saw City drop two places to fourth in the table as both the Gunners and Manchester United overtook them on goal difference.[LNB]Yet Mancini was still happy with the performance of his side, who remain five points behind leaders Chelsea, after playing for 85 minutes with 10 men.[LNB]The Italian said: "It is a situation that can happen.[LNB]"It was a bad result because we lost, but after the sending-off everything changes.[LNB]"Clearly it would have been better if we had won the game but if you play with 10 men against Arsenal, it is difficult.[LNB]"It is important we had the mentality during the game that we always tried to play.[LNB]"I am very proud of my players because we showed we are one of the best teams in the Premier League.[LNB]"They played like a strong team, they played well. We lost but the way (ahead) is long."

Source: Team_Talk