FA Cup Final Recap: Player Ratings

Hart - Distribution suspect at times. Although not put under the levels of pressure expected, alert enough to make a smart save to thwart Jones. 6.5

Richards - Full of energy in attack but remained strong in defence throughout. Arguably getting back to his best form. 7

Kompany - Such a presence defensively but his ability on the ball allows is the very essence in building from the back. 7.5

Lescott - One slip that allowed Jones his opportunity but otherwise strong. Always made the correct decisions in possession. 6.5

Kolarov - Poor start to the game with several mis-placed passes. Provided an attacking threat at times though and probably 50/50 in his battle with Pennant. 5.5

de Jong - His strengths in being able to break up play were again evident but so often City's attacks began with him. Barely put a foot wrong. 7.5

Barry - Retained and recycled possession as well as anybody. Withdrawn for Johnson as part of a tactical switch. 6.5

Toure - Tevez's inclusion meant he wasn't required as much as an attacking force but threatened throughout when breaking forward and once again got the decisive goal. 7

Silva - Could have won the game himself before Toure scored and missed two superb opportunities. Creative throughout and had a hand in the goal. 7

Balotelli - A surprise inclusion perhaps but deserving of the man of the match award. Dilligent in defence, he linked well with tam mates and his back heel started the move for the goal. Unlucky not to score in the first half with a curling effort. 8

Tevez - Not fully fit by any means but warranted inclusion. His ability to create time and space was crucial. 7

Subs: 

Johnson - Brought on to add more attacking threat and ran well at the Stoke back line. One great move that left Wilson for dead. 6.5

Zabaleta - Unlucky to miss out on the start but brought on late to shore up the defence further. n/a

Vieira - Introduced for the final minutes of the game. n/a