Manchester City 2 Ipswich Town 1

The February 1994 (on this day in 1994) meeting between the two clubs made the headlines as it heralded the dawn of the Francis Lee era at Maine Road and, not for the first time that season, much of the focus was on off-field activities.  Nevertheless the game itself was an extremely pleasing from a City perspective.  It commenced in typical City big match style – Garry Flitcroft’s attempted back pass ended up gifting Ian Marshall, the former Oldham player, a rather simple opportunity to score!

Fortunately, City didn’t give up.  David Rocastle, who had joined City from Leeds in a £1 million exchange for the out of form David White in December, had quickly established himself as an important member of Brian Horton’s side.  Many saw him as a great addition to the Blue cause, and this match proved to be his greatest as he clearly helped City attack Ipswich.  At one point he cut through two defenders, charged to the goal-line and sent over a superb cross for Carl Griffiths to flick in a great goal.  Afterwards the new Chairman claimed Rocastle possessed Brazilian-style skill and few argued.

The goal brought more confidence and with Michel Vonk defending superbly, and Steve Lomas controlling midfield, the Blues dominated.  Terry Phelan attempted an overhead shot, before a foul on Lomas brought a free kick.  Keith Curle took it and Vonk knocked it down for Garry Flitcroft to touch in the winning goal.

That night City fans celebrated their first League victory since 8^th December.  They ended the season in16th place while Ipswich finished 19^th (one point above the relegation zone).

Stats: Premier League, 5^th February 1994

City 2 Ipswich Town 1

Scorers – City: Flitcroft, Griffiths

Ipswich: Marshall

City:  Coton, Edghill, Phelan, Lomas, Curle, Vonk, Rocastle, Flitcroft, Griffiths, Shutt, Sheron

Attendance: 28,188

More on this season here:

The 1990s: 1993-1994 Swales Out