The three standout Bristol City players as Robins secure 1-0 victory over Plymouth Argyle

Bristol City secured a 1-0 win over Plymouth Argyle thanks to Nahki Wells’ late winner but they were made to sweat at times in hot conditions at Home Park.

League One Plymouth were the most cohesive outfit City have faced so far in pre-season and, at times, the Robins midfield duo of Andy King and Han-Noah Massengo found themselves a little out-manned, forcing pressure on the defence with Dan Bentley called into action on a number of occasions.

City fashioned some half-chances in the opening 45 minutes but while they enjoyed periods of sustained possession, they lacked penetration to break the opposition down.

The winner arrived eight minutes from time as, after spurning a chance a few moments earlier went sent clear by Massengo, Wells this time was the beneficiary of a poor clearance and some smart thinking by Sam Bell, before slotting home from close range.

Here are the three City players who stood out…

It needs to be said that nobody enjoyed a vintage afternoon at Home Park but Dasilva was bright and constantly looking to find spaces either to dribble into or exchange passes with the frontmen.

We all know about his penetrative runs but what stands out the most about the 24-year-old is his touch and close control in hectic areas and his ability to break through pressure situations, which means he can receive a pass in most scenarios.

In the first half there were a few occasions where he got beyond the Plymouth backline but couldn’t find a man in the area, partly due to his delivery but also the fine work of the hosts’ defence. The fact he was repeatedly getting into these positions should be pleasing for Pearson, though.

George Tanner didn’t do much to dislodge the notion that Kane Wilson will be City’s starting