Manchester City got back to winning ways as they saw off a defensive Newcastle side in a 3-1 victory at the Etihad Stadium.
It was a crucial win for Pep Guardiola’s men as they ensured that their lead over their rivals would remain at 12 points. After a disappointing defeat at the hands of Liverpool last weekend, the Citizens were determined to redeem themselves against a struggling Newcastle side, who currently sit 15th place, three points above the relegation zone.
After a frustrating opening 30 minutes, the deadlock was broken by Sergio Aguero as the Argentine deftly flicked a Kevin De Bruyne strike past Karl Darlow. In the second half, Aguero converted a penalty on the hour mark after Raheem Sterling was tripped by Javier Manquillo to double City’s advantage. Four minutes later, Jacob Murphy chipped the ball over Ederson after a Newcastle counter-attack caught out City’s defence. The three points were sealed after a fantastic Leroy Sane run found Aguero unmarked in the box to complete his hat-trick.
A big win for City as they looked to consolidate their dominance on the league and extend their advantage over Manchester United.
Here are our player ratings from the match.
Ederson - 6
Had no chance of saving Murphy’s goal, but soon after he seemed to lose his confidence for a period of time. His passing was great, as per usual.
Kyle Walker - 6
Walker was one of the men driving City forward in the first half and was essential in pinning Newcastle back into their own box. In the second half, it was a contrast in performance as he resorted to sitting back to help out his defence.
John Stones - 7
Allowed Murphy far too much space for Newcastle’s goal, but that was down to the defensive set-up rather than individual error. Passed the ball well and was more composed.
Nicolas Otamendi - 7
After signing a new contract in midweek, the Argentinian put in another good display with fantastic passing and good timing on blocks.
Aleks Zinchenko - 7
Arguably City’s best player in the first half, which was highlighted by a wonderful pass to Sane. In the second half, he seemed to run out of energy and was unfortunately at fault for Murphy’s goal.
Kevin De Bruyne - 9
Another world class assist for Aguero’s opening goal, but what made the performance even better was his work rate at coming back into defence to help out when needed. It just gets better and better each week for the Belgian wizard.
Fernandinho - 8
His long range passing was a sight to behold and his never-ending work rate was essential in securing City the victory. A well deserved contract extension for the Brazilian enforcer.
David Silva - 8
Was crucial in providing the right passes at the right time in the tightest of areas, which was sorely lacking at Anfield. Not his best performance, but one that helped his team secure another win.
Raheem Sterling - 7
A quiet first half for Raheem, despite his narrow offside goal. In the second half, he turned on the style as he earned his side a penalty and was unlucky not to see his volley find the net.
Sergio Aguero - 9
Another hat-trick for City, which was much needed after a tough loss last weekend. Looked back to his ferocious best, clinical as ever and caused problems for a shaky Newcastle defence.
Leroy Sane - 7
Despite a quiet game, Sane turned on the style by tearing the Newcastle defence apart and setting up Aguero to complete his hat-trick.
Substitutions
Bernardo Silva (for Sterling 86) – No time to mark