Man.City smash Palace to fire title warning, Villa extend winning run

Manchester City thumped Crystal Palace on Sunday to climb back to within two points of English Premier League (EPL) leaders Arsenal as Aston Villa twice came from behind to beat West Ham.

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City closed the gap on English Premier League (EPL) leaders Arsenal as Erling Haaland’s double inspired a 3-0 win.

Pep Guardiola’s second-placed side moved within two points of Arsenal after a hard-fought success at Selhurst Park.

Norway striker Haaland opened the scoring late in the first half and England forward Phil Foden netted after the break.

Haaland bagged his 23rd goal this season to complete City’s fifth successive win in all competitions.

Arsenal's dramatic late win over bottom of the table Wolves on Saturday had put pressure on City to respond. Guardiola’s men were up to the task, overcoming a spluttering display in large part because of the quality of their finishing.

"Erling is a forward to score the goals but in the second half he keeps the ball. He was able to contain situations. He helped us be together. In the second half he was outstanding,” Guardiola said.

After coming from behind to win 2-1 at Real Madrid in their glamour Champions League clash in midweek, a trip to freezing south London to face their FA Cup final conquerors was a testing trip for far different reasons.