Team news
Sylvain Distin shook off his hamstring twinge to replace Sun Jihai, and Kiki Musampa came back for Albert Riera, possibly in anticipation for the physical approach of the home side.
Rovers made several changes to the side that eat Chelsea, with Craig Bellamy the most notable absentee. Former City favourite Paul Dickov lined up against his old side.
The Match
City took to the field in their ‘blaze yellow’ third kit, while Rovers were sporting their new home strip, although there was not a huge difference discernable with the old one - there’s not too much you can do with blue and white halves.
Kick off was greeted by skies dark enough for the floodlights to be switched on, and with City’s contingent in good voice.
