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City’s hope to win the premier league after 45 years felt another jolt as they could not capitalize on poor Sunderland. Despite a strong fight back from 3-1 down to 3-3, they are now two points behind league leader Manchester United who have a match in hand.
City missed their big chance to catch the rival United after the last weekend’s 1-1 draw with Stoke City. Yesterday, City once again succumbed to the pressure of Sunderland’s attack, conceding the early goals and trailing behind for most of the second half.
Sunderland started the initial attack and went away when Larsson scored a low ball into the corner from the edge of the penalty area in the 31st minute. Mario Balotelli equalised with a penalty awarded for Craig Garden’s challenge on Edin Dzeko. Balotelli netted the ball with cool composure. Few minutes from half-time, Bendtner increased the lead for Sunderland with a stunning header. The growing frustration among the player made it difficult for them to hold their nerves.
In the second half, Sunerland’s lead moved further when Larsson scored superbly meeting a fine cross from Bendtner. Sunderland almost snatched the victory from the Etihad stadium but it was city’s never say never attitude and utter desperation which saved the Manager’s face. Balotelli came from nowhere and reduced the deficit with a long range shot. In the 86th minute Kolarov secured the draw when he netted from substitute David Pizarro’s set up.
The gap between the leading giants is widening. The chance of witnessing a thrilling end to the season may look futile if City continues their dismal performance. Meanwhile United is in no mood to lose their golden opportunity to run away from City. They will face Blackburn Rovers in a late clash to outclass the Roberto Mancini’s men.
In another match Chelsea won 4-2 against Aston Villa. Chelsea went ahead with Daniel Sturridge and Ivanovic’s goal but Villa came back strong and levelled it 2-2. James Collins and Eric Lichaj scored for Villa. Chelsea clinched the three points with Ivanovic and Torres’s goal and moved two points behind fourth place Tottenham. The villa captain Stiliyan Petrov watched the game from stand following his diagnosis with leukaemia. He looked emotional and waved from the stands when he received a standing ovation.
