BLUE MOON RISING...

Battling Forest make City misfire, but the champions still find a way to win in pursuit of historic fourth title

- DAVID MCDONNELL

IF ever there was a game that underlined Manchester City's desire to win an historic fourth straight title, this was it.

Far from their fluent best, with several of their star players making uncharacteristic errors, Pep Guardiola's side did what champions do find a way to win when not playing well.

At this stage of the season, with the finish line in sight, that is all that matters. Playing attractive football comes second to ticking off the wins and putting the points on the board, particularly with rivals Arsenal refusing to go away.

This was Guardiola's 300th Premier League game and, while it will not rank anywhere near the top in terms of drama or aesthetics, it could prove hugely significant in terms of this season's title race.

City extended their unbeaten run in the league to 19 games, but more importantly kept up the pressure on leaders Arsenal, staying within a point of the leaders with a game in hand.