City fans respond to win over Newcastle

Manchester City 2 - 1 Newcastle United

City's celebrations at full-time against Newcastle were tinged with relief as well as elation after what was a stressful night.

Author | Macca

Stadium | Etihad Stadium

Nico O'Reilly's two first-half goals, either side of Lewis Hall's equaliser, set the platform for City's win. How important could these three points prove to be?

Best comments from matchgoing blues

Mo: Pleased to see a deserved and much-needed victory against a strong Newcastle side clearly motivated by memories of the Carabao Cup defeat. We were impressive across most areas of the pitch. Once again, Gianluigi Donnarumma underlined his claim as the best goalkeeper in the world. Erling Haaland and Nico O’Reilly also stood out, with Haaland’s defensive contribution particularly striking and O’Reilly’s knack for drifting into pockets of space a real asset.

Dave: Far from convincing after an encouraging first half. The second half followed a familiar pattern this season, with a poor showing that invited pressure, left City pinned back, passes going astray and, once again, little service for Haaland, who worked himself into the ground.

Tommy: A solid three points. Just a pity Arsenal won against Tottenham.

Nathan: We dropped off badly again after the interval. A couple of loose passes on both sides could easily have led to goals. We held on, though, and I have not felt this energised in a long time. The togetherness on that pitch was remarkable, and I have never been prouder of the team. Anyone branding Haaland a one-trick pony is talking nonsense. There was not a weak link in the side and Abdukodir Khusanov had me applauding repeatedly. 

Jamie: Title or not, the mentality is back and that is why I am delighted. Credit to Newcastle, whose support was outstanding, just as it was in Baku. Holding off such strong opposition is hugely satisfying. The players have improved enormously.

Mikey: The turning point came after half-time when pace was added, with Khusanov replacing Ruben Dias. He was outstanding, dealing with everything at the back and even driving attacks forward. We may well have a real gem on our hands.