Erling Haaland scored the game-winner in the 71st minute to break Brentford’s stubborn resistance and give Man City a much needed victory. Manchester City is now only one point behind Liverpool in the Premier League standings, sitting on 56 points.
The night looked to be one of frustration at Etihad Stadium as Man City couldn’t score despite numerous shots on goal. Manager Pep Guardiola became increasingly irritated with what he felt were Brentford’s tactics to waste time and draw out the match. Goalkeeper Mark Flekken seemed to be delaying his goal-kicks and Yoane Wissa went down to earn a John Stones penalty early in the match.
Brentford even had a chance to take the lead when Ivan Toney almost nudged a free-kick past at out-stretched Ederson. Again in the early second half, Onyeka led a break downfield but held on too long, giving up a great chance on goal.
Haaland was finally able to break through with 19 minutes to go in regulation. Brentford defender Kristoffer Ajer appeared to have the situation under control when Julian Alvarez countered with a pass into the opposition’s half.
Haaland however had other ideas as he began the chase. Ajer slipped and could not get back up on his feet as the Norwegian sped past him. From there it was easy for one of the premier strikers in the world, as the 23-year-old kept his cool to beat Mark Flekken with a precise shot.
It was Haaland’s 22nd goal of the season and he has also scored against every single Premier League opponent he has faced. He will be happy to put last week’s match against Chelsea behind him, after missing a number of chances in Saturday’s draw.
Man City had 26 shots on goal compared to just the 6 from Brentford. They also dominated the time of possession 71% to 29%.
The win put City ahead of Arsenal into the second spot which keeps the chance of a record fourth consecutive title well and running. The big match will come on the 10th of March when Man City will visit leaders Liverpool.
After winning the corresponding match last season, Brentford was trying to become the only team other than Manchester United to win successive away games against City. Given how dominant City was in the game it wasn’t surprising that they won. Perhaps the manner in which was, with a very messy mix up which led to the Haaland goal.
Brentford have only managed six points from their past 11 games and they are only five points off the relegation zone. They have a tough test ahead of them next week as they go on to face Liverpool.
Premier League Standings (2023/24)
At the moment, the top of the Premier League table is only separated by two points between the first and third place teams. Arsenal dominated Burnley 5-0 on the 17th to stay in striking distance of the top 2.
The big game for Arsenal will come against Man City on March 31st, where they will look to overtake them. Arsenal were already able to beat Liverpool earlier this month 3-1 to gain big ground.
Aston VIlla and Tottenham stayed within 10 points of the leader but are unlikely to threaten the top place. Currently, it seems like a three horse race which will likely be decided by the teams playing each other.
Luton and Everton are in danger of relegation along with Burnley and Sheffield United. Everton was penalized with a 10-point deduction after a breach of the Premier League’s profit and sustainability rules earlier this season.
| Team | Games Played | Points |
|---|---|---|
| Liverpool | 25 | 57 |
| Man City | 25 | 56 |
| Arsenal | 25 | 55 |
| Aston Villa | 25 | 49 |
| Tottenham | 25 | 47 |
| Man Utd | 25 | 44 |
| Brighton | 25 | 38 |
| New Castle | 25 | 37 |
| West Ham | 25 | 36 |
| Chelsea | 25 | 35 |
| Wolves | 25 | 35 |
| Fulham | 25 | 29 |
| Bournemouth | 24 | 28 |
| Brentford | 25 | 25 |
| Crystal Palace | 25 | 25 |
| N Forest | 25 | 24 |
| Luton Town | 24 | 20 |
| Everton | 25 | 20* |
| Burnley | 25 | 13 |
| Sheffield Utd | 25 | 13 |
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