City’s Persistence Too Much For Everton

Pep Guardioal's Manchester City side were set up tactically in a much better way than Everton. City's patience and determination was enough to claim a 2-0 win to put themselves on top of the Premier League table, with second-place Liverpool playing on the same day.

I attended this game, and I must say it was a great experience. The quality of Manchester City's players shows why they are the best in the world; however, Everton did put up a good fight until the end.

Up until the 71st minute, when Norwegian striker Erling Haaland slotted the ball past Pickford in front of the travelling away fans, Everton were comfortable. Obviously, the home side had the majority of possession, having 73% of the ball, which is the same every week. If there isn't a clear path to goal, City will just keep the ball until there is.

Also, the depth of the substitute bench that both teams have differs massively. Pep Guardiola's side had players like Jack Grealish and world-class midfielder Kevin de Bruyne on the sidelines, and they both featured. However, Everton had nowhere near the amount of class the home side had.

It was in the 85th minute that Erling Haaland (again) sealed the deal for Manchester City, which marked the end of the game and gave them 3 points.

Everton remain in the relegation zone in 18th place, with all the teams below them having played the same number of games (24), but Nottingham Forest in 17th have a game in hand and are 2 points clear of the Toffees.

Sean Dyche was not on the touch line today due to a ban because of the number of yellow cards he has received this season. Instead, he was sitting in the stands.

In his post-match interview, Pep Guardiola admitted that from managing the game, there are lessons to be learned. Also, the quality of the guy upfront (Haaland) is very helpful.

Haaland now has 72 goals in 78 games, and after just returning to the team, it seems he will again be unstoppable.

Everton next game: Crystal Palace (h) - 19 Feb 20:00 (Premier League)

Man City next game: Copenhagen (a) - 13 Feb 20:00 (UCL Round of 16 1st leg)

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