Hart’s stop was crucial for the Blues

The City kit boss and former Latics star writes every week for Chron Sport

MANCHESTER City produced an excellent performance to see off rivals Chelsea 2-0 – and scored two awesome goals in the process.

I think it’s fair to say Joe Hart’s penalty save in the second half was the turning point, as it gave the players extra belief to go on and win. It really was a fantastic stop, denying Frank Lampard – who is such a good spot-kick taker – with one hand.

Yaya Toure then broke the deadlock after cleverly tricking his way past several defenders, and Carlos Tevez secured the three points with a screamer late on.

It was nothing less than the Blues deserved and it helped to keep a bit of pressure on United.

The win also ensured we bounced back following three Premier League games without a victory, and built on the momentum sparked by the FA Cup victory over Leeds United at the Etihad Stadium.

I think Jack Rodwell deserves a special mention following a rare start.

Jack is a great lad who has been troubled by a number of injuries since making the switch from Everton. But he was brilliant at the weekend, showing mobility to get from one penalty box to the other on a regular basis. He is also a big guy – at least 6ft – so he brings to the table an aerial threat when we send in crosses and set pieces.

Hopefully his injury woes are now firmly behind him and he can kick on for the rest of the campaign. It is certainly promising for the future.