West Ham were denied a memorable result at the Etihad Stadium as second half goals from Nicolas Otamendi and David Silva extended Manchester City’s unbeaten record to 20 games across all competitions.
The Premier League leaders struggled to unlock a stubborn West Ham defence in the opening 45 minutes, and only led the game in the final ten minutes.
The Hammers should, despite the result, take a lot heart from their display against the champions elect.
David Moyes fielded a back five – one intent on maintaining shape rather than pressing their opponents – and it proved a successful ploy.
They were efficient on the break, too, and took an unlikely lead after Angelo Ogbonna headed home Aaron Cresswell’s cross on the stroke of half time.
Pep Guardiola reacted by bringing on Gabriel Jesus for the start of the second half, and the Brazilian provided the cross for Nicolas Otamnedi’s bundled-home equaliser just before the hour-mark.
Adrian, deputising for Joe Hart – whose loan agreement prevented him from playing against his parent club – will have given Moyes much to consider with future selections.
The Spaniard pulled off numerous second half saves to deny Leroy Sane in particular, but West Ham could not hold on to secure an impressive point as Silva struck at the death.
For City, it restores their lead over Manchester United to eight points ahead of next week’s Manchester derby.
Read More
MORE ABOUT