Manchester City returned to winning ways with a routine 3-1 victory over Watford on a rain-soaked evening at the Etihad Stadium. Goals from Sterling and Aguero on either side of a Kabasele own goal sealed a comfortable win for the Sky Blues, who were largely untroubled for the majority of the game. Andre Gray scored a late consolation after good work from Cleverley and Carillo on the left side.
City got off to the best possible start after Sterling tapped home Sane’s delightful ball across the face of the Watford goal. The result was virtually sealed when Kabasele turned the ball into his own net in the 13th minute. City thoroughly dominated the entire half and Aguero put the result beyond doubt when he tapped in from close range after a Gomes save. Watford were rewarded for some good pressure in the final ten minutes when Gray finished off Carillo’s low cross but it was a mere consolation as City extended their lead to 15 points as they canter to a seemingly easy title win.
Here are the ratings for the Manchester City players from their comfortable victory against the Hornets.
Ederson- 6/10
The Brazilian was a spectator for large parts of the game but needed to be alert when Gray was through on goal. Was unusually sloppy, though, with Watford’s goal coming off a poor clearance.
Kyle Walker- 8/10
The Englishman was once again at his marauding best, making some strong runs on the right side and keeping Carillo at bay for most of the game.
John Stones- 7/10
The returning centre-back had a good game, except for one incident where he misjudged the flight of the ball to allow Gray to break inside the box. Made some aggressive interceptions and was generally composed. Should’ve scored, however, when he blasted his effort over the bar from very close range.
Nicolas Otamendi- 7/10
Again, largely untroubled for most parts of the game and did his duties when needed. Was tasked to play as the ball carrier from defence and did well.
Fabian Delph- 7/10
Richarlison was a tricky opponent to face but the converted left back was largely successful in keeping Richarlison quiet.
Kevin de Bruyne- 9/10
The Belgian maestro was a surprise inclusion in the lineup and showed exactly what City would miss in his absence. A constant threat with a fantastic work rate, he kept City’s play ticking with some exquisite through balls while making sure he made the odd tackle when needed, creating the second ball with a beautiful square pass.
Fernandinho- 8.5/10
Another excellent game from the holding midfielder, especially in the first half, spraying around some brilliant passes that helped City switch sides and create overloads effortlessly.
David Silva- 8/10
Another returning player, Silva was once again at his best, playing slick passes all around the pitch and keeping City’s play at a good tempo.
Raheem Sterling- 8/10
Sterling scored for the 15th time in the league this season and was a threat on the right throughout. Made very good runs in behind, lacked a bit of quality in his final passes, though.
Sergio Aguero- 6.5/10
The Argentine, in spite of his goal, didn’t have a very good game. Was completely aloof at times from the build-up play and had chances to score more than one goal.
Leroy Sane- 9/10
Arguably the man of the match, the German gave Janmaat a torrid time, showing his agility, acceleration and close control on multiple occasions. Assisted the first goal and should’ve got another when Stones missed a sitter.
Substitutes-
Danilo (Stones 67’) – 6/10
Looked a bit uncomfortable as a centre back and nearly gave possession away inside his own half in a dangerous position.
Yaya Toure (Fernandinho 71’) – 6/10
The towering Ivorian had no noticeable impact and played a few simple passes around.
Bernardo Silva (De Bruyne 78’) – 7/10
Not much time for the Portuguese playmaker but nearly got an assist after playing in Sterling with an excellently weighted through ball.
