RAHEEM STERLING responded to Pep Guardiola’s rallying call by finally ending his six match goal-scoring drought.
After last week’s rout of Burnley, the Manchester City boss said he needed more goals from his forwards – including England ace Sterling.
Sterling and De Bruyne were on the scoresheet as Man City beat FulhamCredit: AP:Associated Press
Sterling opened the scoring after just five minutes at the EtihadCredit: EPA
But he looked a man with a point to prove as he grabbed an early opener and won a penalty as City completely bossed the first half.
In fact, Sterling could have scored inside the first couple of minutes as he latched onto a pass from Riyad Mahrez but Fulham goalie Alphonse Areola got down well to save.
However it was only a short reprieve as Kevin de Bruyne slipped through Sterling and this time he slotted past the visitors keeper and into the far corner.
In Pep Guardiola’s 700th game as a club manager, his team were completely in charge. The only surprise was it took them until the 26th minute to double their lead.
Sterling jinked one way then the other before he was upended by Joachim Andersen and to win a clear penalty.
That was the 20th spot-kick Sterling has won in this competition – more than anyone ielse in the history of the competition – and he is still only 25 years old.
De Bruyne missed his last one here – against Liverpool a month ago – but this time he made no mistake, sending Areola the wrong way.
That was the 400th goal City have scored in the Premier League under Pep – in only their 162nd game in the dug-out.
De Bruyne’s 26th minute penalty put City in total controlCredit: Rex Features
Sterling had gone six games without scoring before today’s early effortCredit: Reuters
Man City could have had even more goals after firing 16 shots at Fulham’s netCredit: Getty Images – Getty
There were a few nervy moments for City at the back as Fulham attempted counter-attacksCredit: Reuters
It was now just a question of how many City would win by and Areola was kept busy – making a flying save from Sterling’s volley.
After the interval De Bruyne – who has yet to score from open play this season – smacked a shot against the bar and was then denied by Areola after being sent through by Mahrez.
Ederson had enjoyed a quiet afternoon but was called into action to deal with a left footed strike by Ivan Cavaleiro.
But despite an improved show by Fulham there was no comeback and City took their place back in the top four – temporarily at least.
City have now won two consecutive league games for the first time this seasonCredit: Getty Images – Getty
Pep Guardiola will now be making plans for next weekend’s derby against Man UtdCredit: Reuters
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Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
