Man City maintain perfect start with late winner

Manchester City maintained their perfect start to the 2023-24 Premier League campaign, with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Sheffield United at Bramall Lane.

As expected, Manchester City took control of possession right from the start, but the game lacked significant action until the 35th minute. 

Referee Jarred Gillett awarded a penalty after John Egan's sliding resulted in an outstretched arm blocking Julian Alvarez's cutback.

From the penalty spot, Erling Haaland's strike hit the post, with goalkeeper Wes Foderingham diving in the opposite direction.

Throughout the second half, the visitors persistently sought opportunities, yet squandered several promising chances. 

Both Haaland and Rodri missed clear-cut opportunities early in the second period, with Foderingham making a strong save to thwart Haaland's chipped shot in the 61st minute.

City's high pressure paid off in the 63rd minute. Jack Grealish elegantly lofted a cross to the back post, where Haaland positioned himself perfectly to execute a powerful header into the net from close range.

A mistake from Sheffield-born Kyle Walker gifted possession to the Blades within City's box five minutes from time with the ball eventually reached substitute Jayden Bogle, whose deflected shot found the far corner of the net.

This turn of events spurred the reigning champions into a relentless offensive surge during the closing moments. 

Walker redeemed himself by reaching the by-line and delivering a pull-back to substitute Phil Foden, who set up Rodri, and the Spaniard unleashed a tremendous effort into the top corner in the 89th minute to put the visitors back in front

Despite seven minutes of added time, the hosts couldn't mount a response. With this victory, the Cityzens became the only side in the Premier League to secure victories in their first three matches, propelling them to the top of the table.