James Milner hopes City win generates momentum

JAMES Milner hopes Manchester City’s win at Manchester United will stand them in good stead for the rest of the season.

Milner’s goal was the first in City’s 2-1 win which, while good for local bragging rights, does little to improve his side’s chances of retaining their title.

United lead the way by 12 points with seven games left, although City remain alive in the FA Cup. They play Chelsea in the semi-finals this weekend and Milner wants to get some momentum going. “Every derby is a massive one, we wanted to come and put in a performance,” said Milner.

“We deserved the win at what is always a tough place to come. It was a great result and we will want to keep the momentum until the end of the season.

“We worked very hard and got a win. United are tough to break down at Old Trafford where they have an excellent record.”

City skipper Vincent Kompany was in the wrong place at the wrong time when Phil Jones’ header went in off him in the wake of Milner’s goal, but a Sergio Aguero special won it for the visitors.

Kompany knows the win will do little in the current title race, but hopes it can make a difference heading into next season. “We were the better team,” he said. “The way we finish the season can have an impact on the next when we will start from the beginning. This is a good game to have under our belt.”

City manager Roberto Mancini added: “It demonstrated that we are not (15 points worse),” he said.

Defeat was tough for United to take against their local rivals, but manager Sir Alex Ferguson saw plenty positives.

“It was a very intense game with the two best teams in the country,” he said. “We were unlucky to lose it. We know Aguero is a fantastic finisher but we gave him a lot of room.

“I was pleased with the performance and thought we did really well. There were lots of plus signs, our form is good.”