Manchester City survived an almighty scare to win 5-4 at Fulham and move within two points of Premier League leaders Arsenal. If this is the new normal for Manchester City then heart rate monitors should come as standard for Blues fans.
For the second game in succession Pep Guardiola's side seemingly had a game won, before a second half collapse threatened to spectacularly derail any title conversations. Against Leeds on Saturday, City were in cruise control at half time before letting a two-goal lead slip and needing a last gasp Phil Foden strike to earn the three points. Tuesday night at Fulham was that performance on steroids.
City led 3-0 and, nine minutes into the second half, were 5-1 up and poised to cut Arsenal's lead at the top of the Premier League to two points. Then bedlam. City stood off and allowed Fulham to dictate possession. Alex Iwobi drilled in a second for the Cottagers on 57 minutes to spark hope.
The home fans believed and their team responded. Two goals in seven minutes from Samuel Chukwueze cut the lead to 5-4 with still 12 minutes remaining and City were very much on the ropes. To their credit, they steadied themselves somewhat but still needed a Josko Gvardiol goal-line clearance in the final minute of eight added on to secure a breathless victory.
The record books will show City bounced back from defeat at Newcastle with successive wins. But they cannot play with such chaos and expect to challenge the consistent and consummate Gunners.
Haaland's Century & City's Early Dominance
City's start was excellent. Erling Haaland had already hit the post before he thrashed home his record-breaking 100th Premier League goal to open the scoring. Tijjani Reijnders then scored with an impudent finish as he found the goal he'd been threatening.
Chukwueze's Impact
Samuel Chukwueze's two goals brought Fulham back into the game, highlighting City's defensive frailties despite their attacking prowess.