Man City’s defensive horror show at Everton leaves title hopes hanging by a thread

Man City’s defensive horror show at Everton leaves title hopes hanging by a thread

Manchester City saw their Premier League title hopes suffer a setback after a dramatic 3-3 draw away to Everton in a chaotic encounter at Hill Dickinson Stadium.

The result leaves City trailing Arsenal in the title race, with dropped points handing the advantage to Mikel Arteta’s side.

City began the match on the front foot and dominated possession in the early stages, controlling territory but struggling to break down a disciplined Everton defence.

Their pressure eventually paid off just before half-time through Jeremy Doku, who produced a moment of quality to open the scoring.

The winger cut inside and curled a superb effort into the top corner to give City a deserved lead at the interval.

However, the second half brought a dramatic shift in momentum as Everton responded with intensity and purpose.

The hosts found an equaliser in unusual circumstances when a defensive error allowed Thierno Barry to capitalise and score from close range.

Everton quickly built on that breakthrough and took the lead moments later through Jake O’Brien, who rose highest to head home from a corner.

City were left stunned as Everton extended their advantage again, with Barry grabbing his second goal after reacting quickest to a loose ball in the area.

Pep Guardiola’s side suddenly found themselves trailing 3-1 despite their earlier dominance, with defensive lapses proving costly.

City responded with urgency and reduced the deficit through Erling Haaland, who finished well to keep his side in the contest.