Man City boss Mancini: Fulham victory crucial in top four bid

Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini was delighted with victory over Fulham as they battle for a top four finish.

City were ahead at Craven Cottage through Roque Santa Cruz and Carlos Tevez before the break, then they held on for victory after Danny Murphy pulled a goal back from the penalty spot.

Referee Lee Probert then turned down another penalty appeal when Chris Baird's cross struck Vincent Kompany, meaning City moved into fifth place and will be in the Champions League places if they defeat Everton at Eastlands on Wednesday.

"It was an important win," Mancini said. "Here, against Fulham, it's difficult. They're a good team and have a good manager.

"It was important for us, but it'll be a fight until the end of the season with the other three teams. Liverpool are a fantastic team, and I think we must fight with them, Aston Villa and Tottenham."