ClapThe battle of the title contenders last night was contested between Manchester City and Leicester City, as Liverpool sat back and enjoyed the view from Qatar where they were crowning themselves world champions. It was the sort of game in which they both knew, really, that Liverpool were going to benefit in some way, shape or form as somebody was going to drop points.
As reported by BBC and The Guardian, it was Leicester that wound up dropping points as questions continue to persist regarding whether or not they’ll be able to keep up the pace in this title race.
Jamie Vardy’s phenomenal run of form in the Premier League continued as the Foxes took the lead with the Englishman slotting home in the 22nd minute. However, it didn’t take all too long for the hosts to respond courtesy of a Riyad Mahrez goal – with Ilkay Gundogan then scoring from the penalty spot just before half time.
Signed, sealed, delivered
Gabriel Jesus put the finishing touches on the win with a goal half way through the second half, securing their spot as the likely candidates to push the Reds all the way this season.
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola spoke to the media following what was a huge win for him and his side.
“We created a lot and played incredibly well with the ball.
“It’s impossible to do anything to stop goals like that – they are so good. Guys like Tielemans, they are so good at passing.
“But we were incredibly aggressive up front to stop them playing and we did well playing simple one-two touch and then pass.
“I like to watch my team play well so of course it’s better when they win. We reviewed the last games against Arsenal and Oxford and we struggled a little bit so today was a good example about how we can play.”
“Kevin De Bruyne is a fighter and he helps us keep up the intensity when he’s playing further up he helps the press a lot.That was the best he has played in a long time.
“Riyad was so aggressive against Chilwell [in terms of his pressing]. He wants to score more goals so he took his goal well too.”
A moment of reflection
Leicester boss Brendan Rodgers was somber, but appreciative of his team’s efforts.
“I thought they were very, very good and the big teams can perform at that level. We were disappointed first half, but second half we were a bit better, we had a bit more courage to get on the ball and play.
“Tonight is a good lesson for us of the work we still need to do to get to the level City are at.
“We took the lead when we weren’t playing that well. Jamie was outstanding as was Kasper – they showed their level in a big game tonight.
“We always knew it would be difficult coming here, with the level they’re at. We kept going and fighting but it wasn’t the best of ourselves. City were outstanding.
“Evening’s like this are humbling and good for you, because our young squad can learn from it.”
