What happened...
Manchester City were beaten by a determined Hull City in their first match of the Premier League Cup at the Academy Stadium.
Thierry Ambrose scored City’s goal on his first start since returning from a serious knee injury but two second half Hull efforts turned the match on its head.
City lined up in an experimental 3-2-2-3 with Angelino and Rodney Kongolo controlling the central midfield area.
This control gave Simon Davies’ side the chance to create a number of opportunities in the first half with Lorenzo Gonzalez, Isaac Buckley-Ricketts and Thierry Ambrose all forcing excellent saves from Hull goalkeeper Will Mannion.
View highlights of the recent victory over Liverpool below...
In the end, it was a bit of luck that let Ambrose through on goal and the French striker kept his composure to send Mannion the wrong way and give City the lead.
City went straight back on the offensive but paid the price for sending too many men forward as Hull caught them on the break and Jonathan Edwards’ shot found its way past Kjetil Haug.
City’s determination to reclaim the lead proved their downfall again twenty minutes later as Hull burst forward to earn a corner that would eventually be curled home by captain Harvey Rodgers.
That set up a tense closing period but City were unable to find a way past the inspired Hull backline.
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What it means...
Manchester City have zero points after one match in their Premier League Cup group.
City’s UEFA Youth League team welcome Celtic to the Academy Stadium on the 6 December. Visit the ticket office for information on how you can support our future at upcoming home fixtures.
Key moment...
Although it wasn’t enough to win the match, Ambrose’s goal certainly excited City fans.
Faced with a one-on-one situation for the first time since returning from his long injury lay off, Ambrose looked every inch the Premier League striker as he cushioned the ball inside the post.
Man of the match...
Charlie Oliver – With the change of formation, City’s centre-back was in something of a libero role.
The deepest defender and often the starting point for City’s attacks, the 18-year-old had to demonstrate his full range of passing.
How they lined up...
Goalkeeper Kjetil Haug made his first start of the season.
Cameron Humphreys, Charlie Oliver, James Horsfield and Angelino were the defence protecting O’Brien’s goal.
Captain Rodney Kongolo sat at the base of the midfield behind Will Patching and Denzeil Boadu while Isaac Buckley-Ricketts and Thierry Ambrose flanked 16-year-old Lorenzo Gonzalez.
Substitutes: Grimshaw, Rosler, Poveda, Fernandes, Nemane
Confused about the format and rules of the Premier League Cup? Here’s a handy guide to explain all the competitions our youngsters will be taking part in this season.
