Premier League round-up: City pressure mounts, mid-table drama and relegation battles continue

MANCHESTER City moved to within two points of Premier League leaders Arsenal after a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Newcastle United at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday. 

Teenage forward Nico O’Reilly scored both goals for City — first with a long-range strike in the 14th minute following a surging run and pass from Omar Marmoush, then a well-placed header from Erling Haaland’s cross in the 27th. Newcastle’s Lewis Hall had briefly equalised after a deflected shot, but City held firm in the second half.

City’s win marked their 17th successive home Premier League victory against Newcastle, with Pep Guardiola praising the defensive grit of his side. Defender Marc Guehi said after the match: “I won't say a statement win but it puts us in a really good position moving forward.”

With both teams having played 27 games, Arsenal remain on 58 points, while City are now on 56, keeping the title race intensely close as the season enters its final stretch.

Other Saturday results

Aston Villa were held 1-1 at home by Leeds United. Anton Stach’s free kick gave the visitors the lead in the 31st minute, but Tammy Abraham’s late close-range finish salvaged a point for Villa. Abraham said: “We are not too far from Arsenal who are at the top. Unfortunately today we didn't get the win but we just have to keep pushing.”

Chelsea dropped points again as they were held 1-1 by Burnley. Joao Pedro put Chelsea ahead, but a late stoppage-time equaliser from Zian Flemming earned Burnley a draw. Chelsea’s interim coach Liam Rosenior admitted: “We’ve set fire to four points in two games. It’s not good enough.”

Brighton & Hove Albion secured a 2-0 win at Brentford, with James Milner making history by breaking the Premier League appearance record with his 654th game. West Ham and Bournemouth played out a 0-0 draw, leaving West Ham in 18th place, just two points below Nottingham Forest.

Looking ahead: Sunday fixtures (SA times)

The Premier League action continues today with several fixtures that could shape both the title race and the relegation battle:

• Tottenham Hotspur vs Arsenal – 5.30pm
• Crystal Palace vs Wolverhampton Wanderers – 2pm
• Nottingham Forest vs Liverpool – 2pm
• Sunderland vs Fulham – 4.30pm

The north London derby between Spurs and Arsenal is arguably the weekend’s headline clash, offering Arsenal a chance to maintain their lead, while City no doubt will hope to watch their nearest rivals drop points. 

Meanwhile, and needless to say, mid-table teams and clubs battling relegation have crucial opportunities to improve their positions. And this means that footy fans will be treated to a feast of football.