Phil Foden’s superb solo goal helped Manchester City see off Newcastle and ensured the defending champions kept the pressure on Premier League leaders Arsenal.
Foden struck after 15 minutes, cutting in from the right and holding off two challenges before seeing Sven Boatman curl his shot home.
Newcastle responded well and were causing plenty of problems until City substitute Bernardo Silva slotted home midway through the second half to put the game out of their reach.
The win means City move to within two points of the Gunners, who play Bournemouth later on Saturday, while Newcastle are 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 in the defeat.
His side were on top when Erling Holland set up Silva from the edge of the area to make it 2-0, Joelinton going close and substitute Alexander Isak denied by a speeding Ederson.
He was particularly impressive whenever he was on the ball and his return to full fitness will be a big boost for Newcastle, who have now won just one of their last eight league games as they begin their stagnant season. Look to save.
Foden the star of the show for City
City struggled in this game at times, particularly after half-time when some sloppy passing encouraged Newcastle to come forward and threaten an equaliser.
But they still showed flashes of their best attacking form, with Alke Gundogan and Holland both off target with headers before the break.
Foden was the star of the show, however, with some silky touches on the right showing his current mood, as well as the stylish way he achieved his goal.
All in all it was a good job for Pep Guardiola’s side with the bonus of a welcome clean sheet – Ederson’s 100th in the Premier League – after a run of league games where defensive errors have always resulted in conceding goals. It came out.
Newcastle need to find a cutting edge
Newcastle’s spirit was admirable but their lack of goals remains a concern – they have now managed just three goals in eight league games in 2023, which is a major reason why they have dropped out of their last five. Nobody wins.
But here their attack showed signs of life, with Callum Wilson and Sean Longstaff both having good chances in the first half – Wilson just missing from eight yards, while Longstaff had more to shoot. Time taken, allowing Nathan Ake to block.
The Magpies were even more of a threat when Alan St-Maximin, Joe Willock and Isaac were introduced at the same time, just after the hour mark, but they could not make the most of the pressure that followed.
Silva’s strike highlighted how finishing was the biggest difference between the two sides on the day, and Newcastle will need to find their latest if they are to stay in the hunt for a Champions League place. will
