Tevez stars for Manchester City

Manchester City boss Mark Hughes backed Carlos Tevez to stay on the goal trail after the striker got off the mark in the 2-0 Carling Cup win at Crystal Palace yesterday.

Manchester City's Carlos Tevez celebrates after scoring during their second round Carling Cup match against Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park in London last night. pic/GETTY IMAGES

Tevez, who hit 34 goals in two seasons for Manchester United, found the net for the first time since swapping red for light blue as City saw off plucky Palace.

"That was important for him," said Hughes.

"I hoped he would get opportunities tonight and he was able to get off the mark. His energy and enthusiasm for the game shone through.

"The more he plays for us, the better he will become. We've got Emmanuel Adebayor and Carlos off the mark now so we are delighted." City were forced to weather a first-half storm from Palace, who came off at half-time on top having gone close through Freddie Sears and Darren Ambrose.

City's all-star frontline of Adebayor, Tevez and Robinho did not look like they were relishing the experience as the Palace back four snapped and snarled at them at every opportunity.

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