Man City derail Liverpool – Premier League title race is ON

Manchester City 2 Liverpool 1

A one-horse race became a three-horse race on Thursday night as Manchester City inflicted a first league defeat of the season on Liverpool. The result means the gap at the top of the table is now four points, with City once more in sight of Liverpool. Tottenham are third, six points shy of the leaders.

Not massive

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp did his best to hide the pain as his side’s 20-game unbeaten streak came to an end, telling reporters: “We lost. It doesn’t feel really good but it is not a massive thing. This is our most difficult game of the season.”

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City knew that after losing two of their last three league matches only three points would suffice if they were to drag themselves back into contention. They did so, thanks to a gutsy performance that contained plenty of passion if not precision. No one epitomised the City fervour more than their captain Vincent Kompany, who clattered into Mohamed Salah in the first half, a full-blooded challenge that Klopp believed merited a sending-off. “I really like Vincent Kompany but how on earth is that not a red card?” wondered the German.

Fine margins

The opening goal came five minutes before the break when Sergio Aguero rifled a shot past Reds goalkeeper Alisson. It was tough luck on Liverpool, who thought they had scored earlier in the half when Sadio Mane rattled the City post and then John Stones and Ederson got in a muddle as they tried to hoof the ball clear. It cannoned into the City keeper and failed to cross the line by a mere 1.12cm. On such fine margins can titles be decided.

Pep’s pride

Liverpool equalised midway through the second half when Roberto Firmino stooped low to head the ball past Ederson but the game was won by Leroy Sane 18 minutes from time. Collecting a pass from Raheem Sterling, the young German drove the ball off the far post and into the Liverpool net to send the Etihad wild.

“I am proud of them,” said City manager Pep Guardiola. “We were not scared, we had no fear and we had a lot of pressure.”

What they said about Liverpool’s first Premier League defeat:

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp: “It was a big pressure... It was not our or City’s best game because we both made it difficult for the other team. I have already said to the boys this is OK. We lost it but it will happen.”

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola: “They are leaders, it is four points, but we have reduced the gap. We knew that if we won we would be in contention to fight for the Premier league, if we lose it is over.”

Sky Sports pundit Graeme Souness: “You have to be here to see this, the intensity.”

Liverpool midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum: “I don’t want to say it is a hammer blow. You are always disappointed to lose a game, especially when you come back and create chances.”

Guardiola: “I don’t remember a league so tough. There are so many huge contenders fighting for the title. Every game is a final.”