Manchester City kept the Premier League title race alive with a convincing 3-0 win over Brentford F.C. at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday, moving within two points of leaders Arsenal F.C..
After a dramatic 3-3 draw against Everton F.C. earlier in the week, Pep Guardiola’s side responded with a dominant display, particularly in the second half. The victory puts pressure back on Arsenal ahead of their clash against West Ham United F.C..
City had to work hard for the breakthrough despite controlling large spells of the game. Jeremy Doku was particularly lively and nearly scored within two minutes, forcing the Brentford goalkeeper into a sharp low save before delivering a cross that Erling Haaland headed wide.
Haaland continued to threaten throughout the first half, first directing another header straight at the goalkeeper before seeing a goal-bound effort bravely blocked by Kristoffer Ajer.
The deadlock was finally broken on the hour mark when Doku cut inside from the wing and curled a superb finish into the far corner. The strike was reminiscent of the late equaliser he scored against Everton earlier in the week.
City eased their nerves further with 15 minutes remaining when Haaland scrambled home from close range to double the lead. Substitute Omar Marmoush sealed the victory with a late third goal.
Despite the scoreline, Brentford caused problems for City at times. The City goalkeeper was forced into action after misjudging a long throw from Michael Kayode, with the hosts scrambling to clear the ball off the line.
City’s goalkeeper also reacted quickly to push away a dangerous free-kick from Mathias Jensen before making another sharp save in the second half to deny Igor Thiago at the near post.
However, City’s defence held firm to preserve a clean sheet and secure a crucial win that keeps Guardiola’s side firmly in the race for another league title.
-IANS
