Shaun Goater was left very impressed by the effectiveness of Erling Haaland against Brentford.
Manchester City returned to winning ways on Tuesday night in a hard-fought victory over the Bees.
Pep Guardiola’s side dominated possession and had loads of shots but were struggling to break down their stubborn opponents.
That was until Haaland capitalised on a slip from fellow Norwegian Kristoffer Ajer to race through and slot home the decisive goal.
The 23-year-old hardly touched the ball all night but when it really mattered he struck and made all the difference.
Shaun Goater impressed by Erling Haaland
Speaking on Man City’s Matchday Live Show, Goater said: “This is what he does.
“Again, how many touches did he have? I can’t imagine he had more than 10 but he’s effective.
“He knows where to be at the right time. To arrive at that point where he gets his opportunities.
“Today’s goal was brilliant in terms of how he went through but his timing when he arrives in the box is brilliant.
“So pleased he scored and got us the three points.”
A massive statement from Man City and Erling Haaland
A match-winning goal was exactly what Haaland needed after Saturday’s disappointing draw with Chelsea.
The striker missed several chances you would normally expect him to convert with ease and only a late Rodri strike salvaged a point.
But Haaland never lets it get him down and when he was finally presented with a chance against Brentford, he took it.
The draw with Chelsea was a hugely disappointing result, showing just how high City’s standards have become that a draw to a top team can feel like relegation.
Winning their game in hand was hugely important or City would have found themselves a significant distance behind league leaders Liverpool. Instead, they’re back to within a point in second place.
It wasn’t a vintage win by any stretch of the imagination, but it might just down as one of the most important in the Premier League title race.
