Manchester City extended their winning run in the Premier League to 17 consecutive games as they comfortably beat Bournemouth 4-0 at the Etihad Stadium.
The Citizens came into this game off the back of a tough quarter-final match away to Leicester City in the Carabao Cup on Tuesday, in which City keeper Claudio Bravo was the hero in a tense penalty shootout and helped send his side to the semi-finals against Bristol City. The game ended 1-1 in normal time, with a controversial, late penalty from Jamie Vardy enabling Leicester to peg back the away side at the death after City opened the scoring through Bernardo Silva. Opponents Bournemouth were thrashed by Liverpool in a 4-0 defeat at the Vitality Stadium.
Despite the Cherries frustrating City from the start, a poor clearance from Asmir Begovic found Fernandinho, who was able to pick out Sergio Aguero to nod in for 1-0. At the start of the second half, Raheem Sterling converted for the fifth consecutive game against Bournemouth to make it 2-0 after Aguero’s flicked pass evaded the Cherries’ backline. It became 3-0 with just over 10 minutes remaining as Aguero nodded in again for his 101st goal at the Etihad Stadium and City’s 100th goal in a calendar year, which eclipses the previous record set by Liverpool in 1982 (106). With five minutes to go, Danilo sealed the victory after running on to a Sterling through-ball and slotting past Begovic to ensure City fans will enjoy Christmas being at least 11 points clear of second place.
Here are our player ratings from the match.
Ederson - 7
Despite making a mistake when charging out of goal and almost allowing Wilson a clear-cut opportunity, the Brazilian had barely anything to do. He was, once again, a useful outlet when needed.
Kyle Walker - 7
Looked sharp and controlled against a resilient Bournemouth side, charging down the right flank whenever he could. Made a poor pass to give the away side their best chance, but other than that it was another good game for him.
Vincent Kompany - 7
It was great to see him back on the pitch, showing why he is still a crucial component to this team. Provided a good range of passing and had the energy to burst up the pitch to support attacks.
Nicolas Otamendi - 7
Like previous games, he was resilient and physical at the back and often looked to create a chance for his team-mates when bursting into midfield. Almost scored a fantastic driven shot from 30 yards, which would have sent the Etihad into raptures.
Fabian Delph - 9
Another fantastic game for Delph, with this game further highlighting his qualities when going forward to help out his team. Gave his opponents no chance of getting past him, which shows how much confidence he has in a previously unknown position.
Kevin De Bruyne - 7
Produced a fantastic cross field pass to Sane in the first half , but despite his positive play, he wasn’t able to break down a tough Cherries defence. He will need all the rest he can get as the Premier League enters its Christmas period.
Fernandinho - 9
Provided a good assist for Aguero’s opening goal and was at the centre of everything for City going forward. Showed how crucial he is to Pep Guardiola’s system.
David Silva - 8
It was great to see Silva back after being absent in the previous game for personal reasons, and he put in a spirited display. His range of passes and touches were a thing of beauty.
Raheem Sterling- 8
SIXTEEN goals in all competitions for Raheem Sterling as he confidently strode past the Bournemouth backline to slot the ball past Begovic. He also showed his ability to create chances for his team-mates when he played it into Danilo for 4-0. A fantastic display!
Sergio Aguero - 9
After more rumours over his relationship with Guardiola going sour, Aguero responded to his critics and the media by scoring two exquisite headed goals and assisting with a lovely flick to Sterling.
Back with a bang!
Leroy Sane - 7
Not his best game as he misplaced passes and never really got going. Despite this, he stuck to his position and opened up space for his team-mates.
Substitutions
Bernardo Silva (for Sane 67) A fantastic cross for Aguero’s second goal – 7
Ilkay Gündoğan (for De Bruyne 74) – Looked flawless when he came on – 7
Danilo (for Delph 81) – A great finish for his goal! – 7