It’s a miracle too far for Johnson braves
IT was asking too much for Bristol City to do it all over again. Knocking Manchester United out of the Carabao Cup was one thing, but City as well? That was beyond Lee Johnson and his enterprising team. A goal down from the first leg at the Etihad a fortnight ago, they bowed out at an expectant Ashton Gate last night after taking four Premier League teams with them. It’s been quite a ride. Their dream of a first major cup final for 109 years is over, but the hope is that they will be facing United and City in the top flight next season. This is a team and a venue worthy of a place in the Premier League. Instead, it will be City who proceed to the final against Chelsea or Arsenal at Wembley next month, and deservedly so. Bristol City pushed them hard but Pep Guardiola’s side were better over both legs. The first part of an historic Quadruple is now in sight and few would doubt City’s ability to pull it off. They extinguished hopes of an upset last night by going three up on aggregate with goals either side of the interval from Leroy Sane and Sergio Aguero. Marlon Pack’s 64thminute header got Bristol City back in the game and another from Aden Flint in added time made for a nervous few moments until Kevin De Bruyne scored with the last kick of the game. The Belgian said at the end: ‘We should have won three or 4-0.’ But it was only right Bristol City went out on a high. Robins scorer Pack said: ‘We can all be pleased with our effort and endeavour.’