Recently crowned Premier League champions beat Newcastle United in a seven-goal thriller with striker Ferran Torres netting a hattrick. Meanwhile, Pep Guardiola surprised fans by handing Scott Carson a start in goal.
Manchester City and Newcastle United played a Friday night thriller at St James’ Park, with the Citizens edging the match 4-3. Spaniard Ferran Torres netted his first hattrick for Manchester City, while veteran goalkeeper Scott Carson was handed a shock start. Pep Guardiola’s side set a new English football record by winning their 12th consecutive away match.
Newcastle United took the lead in this match. Swedish defender Emil Krafth put his side in front in the 25th minute, when he smashed a header past Carson, ensuring that there was to be no dream debut clean sheet for the veteran. However, the champions hit back hard and levelled the match when Joao Cancelo’s low drive nestled into the corner.
Minutes later, Guardiola’s side went 2-1 up courtesy of Torres’ first of three goals. The youngster’s incredible flick from a set-piece sailed past Martin Dubravka in goal, thereby overturning the deficit. City’s joy didn’t last long as Newcastle were awarded a penalty at the other end – their first of two on the night. Joelinton stepped up and scored past Carson to make it 2-2 before half-time.
The Magpies were awarded yet another penalty just past the hour mark. The in-form Joe Willock stepped up to take this one but drew a wonderful save from Carson. Luckily for the Arsenal loanee, the ball fell straight back into his path, and he tapped it into an unguarded net.
For the second time in the match, City were tasked with overturning a deficit. A four-minute blitz ensured that they finished the game on top. Torres scored his second of the night in the 64th minute, converting a cross from close range. Moments later, the youngster had his hattrick as he reacted first to a rebound. City held onto their narrow lead to see out the rest of the match.
