Mancini’s date with destiny

It’s time we won a trophy, insists City supremo
ROBERTO Mancini has warned his Manchester City players that beating Stoke in tomorrow’s FA Cup final will be even harder than disposing of Manchester United in the semis.

After clinching a coveted Premier League top–four berth by beating Tottenham on Tuesday, Mancini's men are odds–on to end their 35–year trophy drought by beating the Potters at Wembley.

Even though they have won just one of their last five meetings against Stoke, it is hard to imagine City losing, especially as skipper Carlos Tevez is expected to play some part after his recent hamstring injury.

But Mancini is trying to dampen expectations.

In their own semi–final destruction of Bolton, and by putting Arsenal to the sword at the Britannia Stadium last weekend, Tony Pulis' outfit demonstrated they are a more complete team than many give them credit for.

"Saturday will be harder than United," said Mancini. "Stoke are a strong team and a very difficult team.

“If we want to win we need to play very well. We should pay attention in every situation.

“We cannot concede anything. To think Stoke are an easy team would be a mistake."

Mancini does not give the impression of being a man under pressure.

Having secured a Champions League qualification berth, he has delivered the most important part of owner Sheikh Mansour's pre–season demand.

But Mancini has always felt that once City collected one piece of silverware, others would start to follow swiftly.

He remains of that opinion, which is why he is attaching such importance to a game which could see City end their 35-year wait for a trophy.

"We have achieved one piece of history by going into the Champions League," he said. "Now it is time we won a title. It is important we do this as quickly as we can."