Mancini: Win was about character

Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini has praised his players’ character after the victory over Arsenal.

The Citizens were 1-0 victors in the tie at the Etihad Stadium last night, thanks to David Silva’s scrambled goal.

Mancini felt that the win showed City’s strength of character after the disappointment of the loss at Chelsea.

“It was very important after Chelsea - we didn't deserve to lose that game,” he told Sky Sports.

“Today was a fantastic game for the supporters. It was open until the end and I think we deserved to win.

“They (Arsenal) are playing very, very well...when you are playing against Arsenal, who have Robin Van Persie, Gervinho and (Theo) Walcott up front, you can concede a goal anytime.

“I think today we showed we wanted to win this game after Chelsea and go on top again - but we know the season is long.

“Maybe we will be in second position at some stage during the year - but if we work hard we can stay top,” he added.

“It was a big test for our character and I think we showed we are a strong team...we know we shall fight with United and Tottenham and the other teams who are very strong.”