Kennedy applauds O’Reilly’s mental fortitude | OneFootball

Mark Kennedy was full of praise for Academy graduate Nico O’Reilly and the important role he played in City's 5-2 comeback win over Crystal Palace.

The Eagles took a two-goal lead inside the opening 25 minutes in what was a tough opening for City at the Etihad.

But the Blues responded with O'Reilly's first Premier League goal rounding off the scoring and securing an important three points in our push for a Champions League spot.

And, as pointed out by the former Crystal Palace and City player on the Matchday Live post-match show, O’Reilly showed impressive maturity and mental strength to stay composed and complete the game with a much more impressive display in the second half.

“Technically, it was awesome,” began Kennedy, on his Matchday Live debut, when reviewing O’Reilly’s goal.

WATCH: Extended highlights: City 5-2 Crystal Palace

“The finish was top draw; it caught a slight deflection, but I was so pleased for him today because he had a tough 20 minutes – through no fault of his own – he got really exposed.

“But to show that mental strength to come back and perform like that, play a part in a goal and get a finish, especially when your job in the team is to defend. He was awesome today; I’m really pleased for him.”

Fellow Matchday Live guest Paul Dickov added: “I think the composure he showed as well because he did have a tough 20 minutes, and it would have been easy for any young player for their heads to go a little bit.

“But he came out [in the] second half and was great.”

CITY 5-2 CRYSTAL PALACE | MATCH REPORT

20-year-old O’Reilly wasn’t the only City youngster to be praised on the show.

Kennedy provided his thoughts on the performance of James McAtee who scored on his first full Premier League debut for the Club he has grown up supporting.

“James’ composure to go past him [Dean Henderson] and even the little thing, the tiny details, he takes an extra touch, recognising he’s got a bit of time, that extra touch to allow himself to slot it in,” said Kennedy.

“It was his full Premier League debut and scored a goal, could have had another!

“He was brilliant today and again demonstrated his qualities as an individual and his footballing brain and intelligence.”