Despite consistent attempts to exploit the space behind Ng,

Despite consistent attempts to exploit the space behind Ng, it wasn't a ball over the top that produced Stoke's goal, but a wonderful corner from Will Smallbone.

The midfield maestro fired the ball into the box with the precision and intention that could have only come from a training ground routine.

Smallbone completed four crosses and sent many more threatening balls into the box. City did not allow the visitors another shot on target for the rest of the game - but Stoke only needed to get one right, and they did.


Sabri Lamouchi:

"I'm disappointed about the first corner," Lamouchi said after the game. "We were not absolutely ready. We were so strong and determined three days ago in Watford, and this one - the first one - we were not ready."