Thu Dec 26 15:37:22 UTC 2024: ## Pickford’s Penalty Save Stuns City as Everton Hold Champions to Draw
**Liverpool, England** – Manchester City’s dismal run continued Saturday as they were held to a 1-1 draw by Everton at Goodison Park. The match saw Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford deny Erling Haaland from the penalty spot, a crucial save that contributed to City’s ongoing struggles.
City took the lead early in the first half through a Bernardo Silva strike that deflected off Jarrad Branthwaite. However, Everton equalized before halftime when Iliman Ndiaye expertly finished after a defensive mishap by Akanji.
The second half saw City dominate possession but struggle to break down a resolute Everton defense. Despite numerous chances, including a saved penalty by Pickford, City failed to find a winner. Everton also created several dangerous counter-attacking opportunities, with one instance seeing them have a four-on-two break that was eventually thwarted by Akanji.
The result extends Everton’s impressive recent form, avoiding defeat against Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea, and now City in the past three weeks. City, meanwhile, have now won only one of their last 13 matches across all competitions, a stunning downturn in form for the reigning champions. Manager Pep Guardiola admitted the result was unfair, highlighting City’s missed chances and late defensive lapse. He also downplayed City’s title chances, stating the focus is on one game at a time. The draw leaves City’s title hopes hanging in the balance as their slump deepens.
First Piper 