IF EVER there was a game that underlined Manchester City's desire to win an historic fourth straight title this was it.
Far from their fluent best, with several of their star players making errors, Pep uncharacteristic Guardiola's side did what champions do find a way to win when not playing well.
At this stage of the season, with the finish line in sight, that is all that matters. Playing attractive football comes second to ticking off the wins, particularly with Arsenal refusing to go away.
This was Guardiola's Premier League game and while it will not rank anywhere near the top in terms of drama or aesthetics, it could prove hugely significant. City extended their unbeaten run in the league to 19 matches, but more importantly kept up the pressure on the Gunners, moving within a point of the leaders with a game in hand.
Had Nottingham Forest possessed a clinical edge in front of goal, Nuno Espirito Santo's men could have taken something from this game to boost their hopes of survival.
This story is from the April 29, 2024 edition of Daily Star.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the April 29, 2024 edition of Daily Star.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
LIVE'N LET FLY
Southgate needs guts to grab the glory says Gordon Strachan
THE TEE LIONS
Luxury retreat is just par-fect for Kane ’n Co
SCOOT FOR THE STARS
Emma's hoping to motor past injury nightmare
SILVER AND GOLD
Eilish hopes bracelet works like a charm
TOP MERCS
Wolff's at the door for return to good old days
Hack attack blood crisis
HOSPITAL PLEA FOR DONORS
Real brain in a robot
'AI HUMAN COMPUTER'
ROBOTS V VLAD
Crowd-funding call to build new battle bots
XL BULLY BAN 'IS FAILING'
Dog attacks on the rise
Hey Dumbo, Nelly says tea is ready..
JUMBOS CALL EACH OTHER BY NAMES.. LIKE HUMANS