A very much expected outcome at the Etihad as Manchester City cruise four goals past AFC Bournemouth. The visitors so much enjoyed the reception at Manchester City, that they rewarded the hosts with all three points on a platter of gold.
The match was more or less concluded in the first half, with the Cherries already three goals down before half-time.
While the game appears to have been a stroll in the park for the Cityzens, the breakthrough strike didn’t come until the 19th minute. A beautiful darting run from Gundogan opened up space for Haaland to provide an insist, and in the end, it’s a beautiful left-footed finish from the German.
A few minutes later, Pearson of the visiting side, registered the first shot on target for Bournemouth. His optimism however couldn’t reflect on the scoreboard, as he was denied at the last.
The second goal came about ten minutes later after Foden picks up a loose pass and squares to De Bruyne, who wriggles left and sends a beautiful curler past Travers. Stunning goal from the Belgian!
Just six minutes later, and De Bruyne is caught up in another goal action. This time he’s on the assisting end and Foden returns the favour to score the third goal.
The game setting goal came very much later in the second half. It was Cancelo’s beautiful low cross that gets deflected by Lerma. It’s quite unfortunate for Bournemouth as they pile on the misery.
As things stand, Manchester City sit pretty at the topmost part of the table. Most likely, the Sky Blues will secure the spot till next week except either Chelsea or Tottenham pull up a massive stunt in their late kick off tomorrow.
Manchester City Player Ratings
Walker(6.5), Dias(6.5), Ake(6.0), Cancelo(7.0), De Bruyne(9.0), Rodri(6.5), Gundogan(7.5), Mahrez(6.5), Haaland(7.0), Foden (7.5), Grealish(6.0), Stones(6.0), Lewis(6.0)
Bournemouth Player Ratings
Travers(6.5), Kelly(6.5), Lerma(5.0), Mepham(6.0), Stacey(6.0), Cook(6.0), Pearson(6.5), Smith(6.5), Christie(6.5), Tavernier(6.0), Moore(6.0), Stanislas(5.5), Lowe(5.0), Billing(5.5)