Semi Final

16 April 2011, the Poznan will be remembered in Wembley history – and not because of the Polish football team. A 1-0 win over Manchester United secured Manchester City’s place in the FA Cup finals. Facing off against either Bolton or Stoke City, it will be Man City’s first chance to win the tournament since a 3-2 loss to Tottenham in 1981. Almost 90,000 fans watched the semi final – the blue half envied by every City fan across the country.

I believe City’s placement in the FA Cup final isn’t the true victory – triumphing over cross-city rivals, Manchester United, is just as vital a win. And this isn’t just because the two teams are bitter rivals. United are a leading European team and represent far more than a local derby. Indeed, I believe City are making a huge statement by winning – we are future champions and we’ve left the past behind. Manchester City has proved to Europe it is a force to be reckoned with.

Going into the match, I was extremely worried. I believe City plays as a different team without its captain, Carlos Tevez. I have previously championed him to be PFA Player of the year and it’s no secret that he’s the main driving force behind the team. How could I be so wrong? Every player on Saturday performed at 100%. £200,000 a week Yaya Toure snatched a goal through ambitious and determined play. Adam Johnson and David Silva added flair. Vincent Kompany and Joleon Lescott held a solid centre line throughout the game. Even Mario Balotelli held up the ball decently and forced a magnificent save from van der Sar.

But what does this mean to me? I see this win as City’s ‘coming of age’ game. I can’t help but see comparisons between me and University. I’ve made it through the first year with grades I can be proud of. I’m extremely motivated to do well in the upcoming two years and I’ve enjoyed myself. Manchester City has done the hard bit of settling into their new surroundings and wealth – now they have to push through and win silverware. Trophies can be gained in May, but also next season. Both Manchester City and I have an extremely valuable opportunity to succeed – and it would be disastrous to waste it.

Admittedly, this might be a bit grandiose and exaggerated, but the fact we must take all opportunities when given to us rings true. Of course, it would be wrong to be Machiavellian about it – you need to hold back sometimes. I believe City should hold back on the big money spending for a bit and stop trying to buy success. With University, it would be wrong to dive into work and not enjoy life around me. But there is no point in sitting still all the time and letting chances pass before you. It may be a clichéd saying – but life isn’t a dress rehearsal. Manchester City need to approach the match next May with vigour, enthusiasm and confidence. We’ve made a statement, it’s time to back it up with silver evidence.