Manchester City made it 10 straight wins in all competitions with their 2-nil win over Everton. While it was a hard-fought win for the world champions the message was clear for their title rivals at the final whistle. Pep Guardiola’s side will fight until the end to win a fourth consecutive Premier League title.
For the opening 70 minutes of yesterday’s Premier League match it appeared that Everton would be successful in frustrating the reigning champions. While City had defended well and nullified Sean Dyche’s side they couldn’t break down Everton’s stubborn rearguard. It took a late brace from Erling Haaland to finally earn Pep Guardiola’s side a precious three points.
But City wouldn’t be denied at the Etihad Stadium. As all champion teams do they found a way. While they weren’t at their dazzling best their will to win hauled them over the line. It is an underestimated strength of the European champions. Even when they aren’t at their scintillating best they can find a way to win. It’s a trait that has served them well in previous season’s title races and may do so again this campaign.
Speaking post-game Pep Guardiola was thrilled with City’s win. He believed the win could serve as a valuable lesson for later in the season. He said: “In the first half we were complaining. I know a 12.30 (kick-off) is more difficult but our body language was not good. The chemistry between the players, when they lose a ball or something is not going well, has to be better. But in the second half, it was much better. In general, it was well deserved. I like to win this type of game – suffering and knowing how difficult everything is – because we learn the lessons for what’s coming.”
Manchester City made it 10 consecutive victories in all competitions yesterday against Everton. It is a remarkable winning streak and one that City are more than capable of maintaining. But more important than the winning streak is the message they sent to their title rivals. That they are determined to win a fourth consecutive Premier League title and will fight until the end to do so.
