Sat Sep 14 17:07:13 UTC 2024: ## City Survive Early Scare to Maintain Perfect Start with Haaland Double
Manchester City secured their fourth consecutive Premier League victory, overcoming a shock early goal from Brentford to win 2-1 at the Etihad Stadium.
The visitors stunned the home crowd with Yoane Wissa’s goal just 22 seconds into the match, the fastest goal of the season. However, Erling Haaland swiftly brought City back into the game, equalizing in the 19th minute with his second touch of the match.
Haaland then secured the win with a stunning second goal in the first half, outmuscling Ethan Pinnock before chipping the ball over goalkeeper Mark Flekken for his ninth goal of the season. The Norwegian striker narrowly missed a hat-trick, hitting the post and having another shot saved by Flekken.
Despite City’s dominance, Brentford threatened a comeback and could have snatched a point late in the match. However, the home side held on for a hard-fought victory, moving them to the top of the table.
Jack Grealish praised Haaland’s performance, highlighting his physicality and clinical finishing. “The second showed what he is all about,” Grealish said. “He used his body well and a brilliant finish. It is a pleasure to play with him and hopefully he can continue.”
The win puts City three points ahead of Liverpool, who suffered a shock 1-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest. Arsenal and Newcastle have the opportunity to close the gap on City tomorrow when they face Tottenham and Wolves respectively.
First Piper 