Final Score: Newcastle United 0-1 Manchester City

Manchester City registered their 18th successive win in the Premier League, when they defeated Rafael Benitez’s Newcastle United 1-0 at the St. James’ Park on Wednesday night. 

In what was a hard-fought game for Pep Guardiola’s rampant side, Raheem Sterling scored the only goal of the game in the 31st minute when he stabbed home a brilliant pass from City’s creator in chief Kevin De Bruyne, to seal three points for his side.  

With another three points in the bag, City now move 15 points clear of their closest challengers, Manchester United, who dropped points in the Boxing Day, against Burnley. Here’s how the City players fared against the Tyneside outfit. 

Manchester City Player Ratings 

Ederson – 6/10 

Had very little to do in goal, with Newcastle hardly testing him. His distribution from the back was once again pinpoint.  

Kyle Walker – 6/10 

Was always eager to get forward, but did not always produce the quality. Was fairly solid at the back, apart from one nervy moment against Dwight Gayle.  

Vincent Kompany – N/A 

Was replaced in the 11th minute due to another injury. 

Nicolas Otamendi – 7.5/10 

Was steady and solid in defence when he needed to be. Spent a lot of time higher up the pitch, with the Magpies not threatening. Pulled off some nice passes throughout.  

Danilo – 7/10 

One of his much better displays in a City jersey. Drove forward with purpose down the left and defended resolutely when Newcastle tried to create.  

Kevin De Bruyne – 7/10 

The Belgian wasn’t at his best on the day, as he misplaced quite a few passes and shot wide from a promising position. But he produced a sublime pass for Sterling to score the goal.  

Fernandinho – 8/10 

Started impressively in the middle of the park, but was even more impressive once he was moved into the centre-back position after Kompany’s injury. Won his tackles, headers and carried the ball out with great confidence.  

Ilkay Gundogan – 6.5/10 

Kept things ticking in the middle of the park for the Cityzens, without really standing out a great deal. 

Bernado Silva – 6/10 

Was handed a rare start in the Premier League and the Portuguese attacking midfielder struggled to assert himself on the game. 

Sergio Aguero – 7/10 

Was a constant menace to the Newcastle backline and came so very close to scoring twice, only to be denied by Rob Elliot in the Magpies goal once, and then by the post.  

Raheem Sterling – 8/10 

Continues to shine through for the Cityzens, scoring another very crucial goal – his 17th of the season in all competitions. Sharp movement, good touches, combined with a few frustrating moments as well but in the end, he proved to be the match-winner again.  

Substitutes 

Gabriel Jesus – 6/10 

On for the injured Kompany in the 11th minute. Started off brightly, but could not influence the proceedings a great deal.  

Eliaquim Mangala – N/A 

On for Aguero with less than fifteen minutes left, as City looked to protect their lead. 

Leroy Sane – N/A 

Replaced Silva in the 83rd minute.