Manchester City kept the pressure on Liverpool Monday night by beating West Bromwich Albion 3-1 at the Etihad Stadium.
The hosts opened up a two-goal advantage inside the first 10 minutes thanks to goals from Pablo Zabaleta and Sergio Aguero before Graham Dorrans pulled one back for the Baggies in the 16th minute.
Martin Demichelis completed the 3-1 win with a simple finish from close range before the break, but the win was overshadowed due to an injury picked up by David Silva in the second half.
Below, Sports Mole takes a closer look at the match.
Match statistics
Man City
Shots: 19
On target: 6
Possession: 69%
Corners: 8
Fouls: 9
West Brom
Shots: 10
On target: 3
Possession: 31%
Corners: 2
Fouls: 7
Was the result fair?
Not even the most loyal of West Brom supporters would argue with this result. The Baggies have played a lot worse this season, but they were always second-best at the Etihad. City dominated from the first whistle, despite not needing to hit fifth gear in a routine win.
Man City's performance
Manuel Pellegrini's side weren't at their fluent best, but they didn't need to produce their top form. Despite a nervy start, the City defence managed to cope with the Baggies threat thanks to an impressive display from Demichelis. In attack, Silva was at the heart of most things before an ankle injury forced him off in the second half. They might not have enough time to catch Liverpool, but this was a welcome return to form for City.
West Brom's performance
The Baggies got off to the worst possible start as they conceded twice in the opening 10 minutes. Those goals seemed to create uncertainty as West Brom struggled with the decision to either attack immediately or attempt to keep it tight. In the second half the visitors looked more organised, but a lack of threat going forward meant the result was never really in doubt.
Sports Mole's man of the match
Martin Demichelis: The defender has come in for some criticism during his first season at the club due to some poor displays, but this was a great night for the Argentine as he made a number of crucial tackles to add to his goal in the first half.
Biggest gaffe
Liam Ridgewell looked around to assess the situation after Demichelis had scored City's third, but he could only blame himself. The defender switched off as a corner was delivered, allowing his opponent to tap in the crucial goal in the 36th minute.
Referee performance
It was a pretty routine night for Phil Dowd, who did a good job of avoiding controversy as he allowed the game to flow.
What next?
Man City: Pellegrini's side return to action on Sunday as they travel to Selhurst Park to take on Crystal Palace.
West Brom: The Baggies can edge a step closer to safety if they can beat West Ham United on Saturday afternoon.
Callum Mulvihill
