A sensational goalscoring debut from Antoine Semenyo and a 10-1 thrashing of Exeter in the FA Cup third round have Manchester City fans buzzing!
In a game that saw City hit double figures, Semenyo's impact was immediate, and he wasn't alone in finding the back of the net. Rodri, making his first appearance in 20 months, also got on the scoresheet, while the young Rico Lewis netted a brace.
But here's where it gets controversial... Max Alleyne, a promising youngster, started the goal rush with his first senior goal, and there were two own goals that added to the controversy. Tijjani Reijnders, Nico O'Reilly, and the 17-year-old Ryan McAidoo all got their names on the scoresheet, but the debate rages on about who was ultimately responsible for those own goals.
Exeter did have their moment of glory with a superb late strike from George Birch, but it was a mere consolation in the face of City's dominance.
After a recent dip in form in the Premier League, with three consecutive draws, and a Carabao Cup semi-final looming, this victory was a much-needed boost for City. It was their biggest win since 1987, when they also scored 10 against Huddersfield.
Despite Pep Guardiola's absence due to a one-match ban, his team selection showed he meant business. With six changes, City still fielded a strong lineup, including the debutant Semenyo, who joined for a whopping £62.5 million from Bournemouth.
The game started with a bang as Exeter almost took an early lead, but James Trafford kept City in it with a crucial save. From there, it was all City as they dominated the first half, with four goals before the break.
And this is the part most people miss... the own goals! The first was a contentious one, with debate over whether Fitzwater's header deflected off Doyle-Hayes or City's Aké. The second own goal also had fans scratching their heads, with Fitzwater and Doyle-Hayes involved again.
The second half was a procession, with City cruising to victory. Lewis and Semenyo added to their tallies, and Reijnders and O'Reilly got in on the act too. McAidoo's strike from outside the box made it nine, before Birch's stunning goal for Exeter. But City had the last laugh as Lewis completed his brace in stoppage time.
So, what do you think? Was this a fair reflection of City's dominance, or did Exeter put up more of a fight than the scoreline suggests? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
