Foden stars as Man City see off Newcastle

Phil Foden’s superb solo goal helped Manchester City see off Newcastle and ensured the defending champions kept up the pressure on Premier League leaders Arsenal.

Newcastle responded well and were causing plenty of problems until City substitute Bernardo Silva slotted home to put the game out of their reach midway through the second half.

The win means City move to within two points of the Gunners, who play Bournemouth later on Saturday, while Newcastle remain fifth, four points behind Tottenham.

While the result will be disappointing for Newcastle manager Eddie Howe, as his side looked to bounce back from last weekend’s Carabao Cup final defeat, there were plenty of positives for him in defeat.

His side were on top when Erling Haaland set up Silva to make it 2-0 from the edge of the area, with Joelinton going close and substitute Alexander Isak denied by an onrushing Ederson.

Isak was particularly impressive whenever he was on the ball and his return to fitness will be a big boost for Newcastle, who have now won only one of their past eight league games, as they look to rescue their stalling season.

Foden the star of the show for City

City made hard work of this game at times, especially after half-time when some sloppy passing gave Newcastle the impetus to come forward and threaten an equaliser.

But they still showed flashes of their best attacking form, with Ilkay Gundogan and Haaland both just off target with headers before the break.

Foden was the star of the show, however, with some silky touches out on the right flank showing his current mood, as well as the stylish way he took his goal.

Overall it was a job well done for Pep Guardiola’s side, with the bonus of a welcome clean sheet after a run of league games where defensive errors always seemed to result in them conceding a goal.

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