MANCHESTER: Nico O’Reilly struck twice in the first half as Manchester City beat Newcastle United 2-1 on Saturday to cut Arsenal’s lead at the top of the Premier League to two points.
City made a flying start at the Etihad Stadium and went ahead in the 14th minute when Omar Marmoush surged forward and slipped the ball to O’Reilly, who opted against squaring for Erling Haaland and instead drilled a powerful left-footed shot past Nick Pope.
Newcastle responded quickly, however, as Lewis Hall capitalised on a weak clearance and saw his effort deflect off a City player before beating goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma to level the score.The hosts restored their advantage in the 27th minute when Haaland delivered a measured cross that O’Reilly met with a firm header beyond Pope, a goal that ultimately proved decisive.
The victory, City’s 17th successive Premier League home win over Newcastle, ramps up the pressure on Arsenal, who travel to north London rivals Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday. Arsenal’s 2-2 draw at bottom side Wolverhampton Wanderers on Wednesday had opened the door for Pep Guardiola’s side, who knew defeat was not an option.
City dominated the early stages and looked set for a comfortable afternoon, but Newcastle improved after the interval and pushed hard for an equaliser. The home side were forced to defend resolutely in the closing stages, with Haaland notably tracking back to block shots and clear danger inside his own area.
“Really tough but the team was unbelievable,” Guardiola said. “Seventy percent of the players have never been in this situation, a close title race. We have to live it and they know every game will be like this.”Newcastle’s late pressure created a nervy atmosphere before the final whistle brought visible relief around the Etihad, with City now turning their attention to Arsenal’s derby on Sunday.
