Chinese international football player Sun Jihai was placed in
his club's 'division one team' for the first time this season,
playing during a Carling Cup match between Manchester City and
Bristol City on Wednesday night.
China's portal website Sina reports that the Chinese defender
got the opportunity to show off his considerable skills, locking
down the right side of the pitch and making no mistake during the
entire 90-minute match.
Belgian striker Emile Mpenza's first-half opener gave Manchester
City a 1-0 lead over the host, but a goal from Bradley Orr at the
69 minutes mark caused new boss Sven Eriksson to be anxious over
Man City's chances of victory.
However, costly Bianchi, Eriksson's 8-million-pound purchase
from the Italian club Reggina, forced home a winner in the 80th
minute with a low shot that gave Chris Weale, the home goalkeeper,
no chance.
Finally, the visiting team safely advanced to the third round of
the Carling Cup.
Sun Jihai, who is a "versatile member of the squad" according to
Eriksson, has made more than 130 appearances in over five years at
Man City and is looking to add to that tally this season.
(CRI August 30, 2007)