Shaun Goater was left seriously impressed by what Manchester City did in their massive win over Brentford.
City were in danger of dropping two points in the second game running as a combative Brentford were once again proving to be tricky customers.
However, Erling Haaland struck in the 71st minute to secure a vital three points in the Premier League title race.
The Norwegian sensation capitalised on a slip by compatriot Kristoffer Ajer to charge through and calmly score his 22nd goal of the season.
City have leapfrogged Arsenal into second with the win and are now within a point of Liverpool with all teams having played the same number of games.
What impressed Shaun Goater
Shaun Goater was left particularly impressed with how City managed the game after finding their winning goal.
The Blues completely dominated the ball for the final 20 minutes, keeping it for long stretches without Brentford even getting a touch, and nearly scored after more than three minutes of possession.
Speaking on City’s Matchday Live show, Goater said: “The game management is the best you’ll ever see.
“The different ways to manage the game when you come to the dying minutes but to keep the ball for three and a half minutes is unbelievable.
“One particular period where they had it for a long time it would have been the goal of the century because they kept it that long.
“I think it was Foden who ended up with the shot and you just think wow. Brilliant in how you want to manage the game.
“In terms of the second half for me, it was about the management of the game and how we got through it.”
A welcome change
Although there was a late corner to deal with, it was a relatively stress-free closing period to the game for City. Especially compared to recent weeks.
They completely dictated the tempo of the final stages by maintaining possession and there was never any real danger of the Bees snagging a late equaliser.
After some rollercoaster matches of late, it’s nice for a return to normalcy with a strong statement following the disappointing Chelsea draw.
Not to mention, City have finally managed to keep a clean sheet. A welcome confidence boost to the whole side.
