It was dubbed the clash of the titans by some, while others called it title decider. However, the game produced everything but a winner as Liverpool and Manchester City fought out a thrilling draw at Anfield to leave Arsenal top of the Premier League.
This meeting of the pre-eminent domestic powers of recent years lived up to its billing in an encounter of the highest quality in which both sides had chances to claim a vital victory.
Manchester City took a 23rd-minute lead when a quick and slick corner routine by Keven de Bruyne caught Liverpool napping and John Stones was on hand to guide it home
City however surrendered that lead two minutes into the second half when they conceded a penalty. Darwin Nunez was sent crashing to the ground by keeper Ederson after intercepting Nathan Ake’s poor backpass. Alexis Mac Allister scored the spot-kick.
Ederson, who was injured in the incident, tried to play on initially – facing the penalty – but was unable to continue, and had to be replaced by Stefan Ortega.
As Liverpool finally turned on the full power in front of an expectant Anfield, Luis Diaz missed a glaring chance when put clean through by substitute Mohamed Salah while Ortega blocked crucially from Nunez.
City had chances of their own as Liverpool keeper Caoimhin Kelleher blocked from Foden.
Kelleher also had a lucky escape when he punched Ake’s cross on to Foden, the rebound crashing against the bar, while Jeremy Doku struck the post late on.
These two outstanding sides could not be separated on the day – which means, for now, it is advantage Arsenal in the title race.
The gunners lead with 64 points same as Liverpool though but have superior goal difference while Manchester City are a point behind them in third
EPL: Honours Even As Liverpool, Manchester City Battle ToAn Entertaining Draw
