Last night’s 1-nil win by Manchester City over Brentford was more about the final result than the performance. After dropping points last weekend to Chelsea City’s mission at the Etihad Stadium was to come away with three points. Come the final whistle Erling Haaland’s 71st minute goal wrapped up what could be a crucial three points for the world champions.
Pep Guardiola’s side will have more free-flowing performances than the one last night against Brentford. Thomas Frank’s side set out to frustrate Manchester City with their low block and ability to hit the champions on the break. It was a tactic that served Brentford well last season as they came away with three points at the Etihad last campaign.
But last night the treble winner’s ability to grind out a result was on full display. It is a valuable weapon in Pep Guardiola’s side’s make-up and was needed against Brentford. Once Erling Haaland had given the champions the lead City saw the game out until the final whistle. There were chances to make the game safe for Manchester City but on this night they weren’t required to be taken as City held on for a crucial three points.
Last night’s win was one for Pep Guardiola’s side where substance mattered more than style. While they weren’t desperate for three points at this stage of the season a win was necessary to keep pace with Liverpool and Arsenal. With the Premier League title race appearing to be a battle between three teams, any win is crucial no matter how they are earned. Last night’s win by Manchester City is an example of that.
On a night where three points were more important than the performance the three points City won last night could be crucial come season’s end.
Man City will win the premier league this season