Manchester City needed a match-winner yesterday during their hard-fought 2-nil win over Everton. In their moment of need, it was Erling Haaland who stepped up to seal a vital three points for City in this season’s title race.
While the champions had successfully controlled Everton they couldn’t find a way through the Toffees defence. Sean Dyche’s side had put in a defiant defensive display to frustrate Pep Guardiola’s side. But Erling Haaland made his match-winning impact when his team needed him the most.
His first goal was a typical striker finish. After a corner was half-cleared by the Everton defence the ball fell to Haaland who fired home the opener with his right foot. The goal was desperately needed for the treble winners and it was Erling Haaland who seized his moment in the 71st minute.
The striker’s second was a goal typical of his partnership with Kevin De Bruyne. City’s number 9 was played through by the Manchester City legend and he showed his strength and world-class finishing ability to wrap up three points for the champions in the 85th minute. While City’s performance wasn’t their best against Everton Haaland’s brace may be a pivotal moment in the title race.
After missing two months due to a foot injury the champions had missed Haaland’s finishing ability. While they have continued to win in his absence Haaland’s brace yesterday showed how vital his presence is for City.
Speaking post-game Erling Haaland was thrilled to be back amongst the goals. He said: “It’s a fantastic feeling. It’s fantastic to be back and it is also good to keep on winning. It’s important. We have to keep on going. Yeah, it was a great goal (first goal)and a fantastic feeling. Back to normal finally, it’s good to be back to normal. It was a great goal (his second goal).”
Manchester City needed a match-winner yesterday and it was Erling Haaland who stepped up to the plate. With Haaland back amongst the goals it bodes well for City’s chase for history.