Noisy neighbours celebrate 'dream' win
Micah Richards believes Manchester City are ready to throw their 'noisy neighbours' nickname back in Manchester United’s face after a stunning 6-1 derby win at Old Trafford.
City were leading 1-0 at half-time courtesy of Mario Balotelli but ran the Red Devils ragged after Jonny Evans’ red card two minutes after the restart.
Balotelli scored a second, substitute Edin Dzeko scored twice and David Silva and Sergio Aguero also netted, with Darren Fletcher with the home side’s consolation.
Richards, who put in a tireless performance at right-back, was quick to remember Sir Alex Ferguson’s famous quip about City after the match.
“People call us the noisy neighbours but here we are. We have a good set of lads and we want to show people what we can do.
“I think we did that today. It’s what dreams are made of. We all know how good United are and how good they are at home. But they know about our attacking force – Balotelli, Dzeko, Aguero, Silva.
“To come to Old Trafford and win gives confidence, especially the way we won. We’ll only go forward now.”
Richards conceded that he had not expected the game to be quite so one-sided and admitted Evans’ dismissal was key.
“I’m still gobsmacked to be honest. To come here and win 6-1 in unbelievable,” he said.
“They had 10 men so you have to let them off a bit but in the first half we defended well and took the chance when it came.”
Like Richards, City boss Roberto Mancini was aware the sending off was a big help but does not feel United were at their best with 11 on the field either.
“I think that after the sending off it was easier but I think we were playing very well.
“The first 25 minutes United played well but there was no chance. When you come here, United are a strong team, and you can have some problems.
“It’s an important three points, we played well here. There will be not be many teams that come here and come to win.”
The Italian did have some words of encouragement for United, though they are unlikely to lessen the sense of disappointment at Old Trafford.
“I have more respect for United because after the sending off they continued to try and play and score. It is an incredible mentality.”
