DAVID Brooks insisted Cherries had been right to adopt a defensive approach against big guns Manchester City.

Typically an open and attacking team, Cherries played with a five-man defence and four-man midfield against City’s galaxy of stars.

The hosts severely restricted Pep Guardiola’s side in the first half but substitute Riyad Mahrez made the crucial breakthrough early in the second.

Such was the visitors’ dominance of possession that Cherries failed to register a shot at goal during the game.

Former City youngster Brooks said: “They have had some really big wins and torn teams apart so we didn’t really want it to be an open game because it could have got embarrassing.

“You need to keep it tight at the back and try to pose a threat going the other way. That wasn’t really the case but I thought we defended well and the goal was a bit unlucky.

“All the lads were hurting after the Arsenal scoreline and I thought we responded.

“There’s a reason why Man City are one of the favourites to win the Champions’ League – it was always going to be a tough game.”