Manchester City Close Gap With Table Top After Sunderland Defeat

 

Manchester City secured the maximum points to close the gap with the Premier League summit after comfortably defeating Sunderland 3-0 at Etihad Stadium. 

It has been a productive week for Pep Guardiola's men, who remain unbeaten after four games across all competitions. Rayan Cherki played a significant role in the game, even as Sunderland proved resilient, striking shots that clipped the frame. 

Ruben Diaz blasted in the opening goal from 20 yards, receiving a pass from Cherki. Josko Gvardiol doubled the lead, nodding home Phil Foden's cross midway through the first half. 

The scoreline remained the same until the second half, when Foden leapt for Cherki's cross from the right, nodding the ball into the top corner to beat Robin Roefs

The victory closed the gap between City and the table leaders, Arsenal, reducing it to two points. The Gunners lost their game to Aston Villa by 2-1. setting them back by three points. 

Overview

Compared to their previous game, Sunderland were a shadow of themselves, and City established their dominance quickly. Though there were a couple of scares from Sunderland inside the 50th minute, they were unable to undo City's strong hold of the game. 

Rayan Cherki had a game of his delight, making contributions to two goals, and that made him a prominent figure in the game. He also assisted Erling Haaland with a near goal. Jeremy Doku was another player who impacted the game, initiating the opening by playing in Rayan