Pulling clear

Manchester City have one hand on the Premier League trophy; a decisive blow was struck on Manchester United's season and Liverpool's title hopes in Wednesday's Manchester Derby.

 United started the game well and outran City, forcing uncharacteristic errors and sloppy play but lacked a goal threat. They ran collectively five kilometres less in the second half when City's quality and intelligence shone through. Bernardo Silva with a smart shot into the near post and Leroy Sané with a fizzing strike to seal a third successive win at Old Trafford.

Credit: Getty Images 

 Pep Guardiola's side were ultimately too good and had much more quality than United. David de Gea, however, continued his current decline with yet another performance in which he could have done better for both goals. He and United have now conceded 50 league goals this season, a record. On the other side of Manchester, and quality, City have scored 157 goals in all Competitions, the most in a season in the history of English football.

 This proves United's seventh loss in the last nine in all competitions and they have Failed to keep a clean sheet in 12 consecutive games in all Competitions. City have now won the most Premier League games at OId Trafford against United with seven in what was their sixth victory in the last eight visits. Pep Guardiola also becomes the first manager to win three consecutive matches against United at Old Trafford.

 It does hurt United, but they would rather that than a Liverpool title win.

Bernardo Silva is having a breakthrough season and deservedly opened the scoring with a smart finish.  Credit: Getty Images 

 The title is now in City's hands, as they face Burnley, Leicester and Brighton in the final three games. Before an FA cup final date with Watford that might secure a domestic treble. United, on the other hand, are now 25 points adrift, pondering the huge gulf in class from their noisy neighbours. It will be the sixth consecutive season that City have finished above United.

Manchester City have scaled just about every hurdle this season and this win was the last significant test. Pulling clear of City and title rivals, it's reward time.