Sterling’s 100th EPL goal earns City win

England forward Raheem Sterling’s 100th Premier League goal has earned leaders Manchester City a 1-0 win over 10-man Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Wolves had been doing a fine job of frustrating City in the opening period on Saturday before striker Raul Jimenez’s dismissal for two yellow cards in quick succession in first-half stoppage time changed the complexion of the game.

City went on to dominate the second half, edging in front through Sterling’s penalty – a decision that required a lengthy VAR check – in the 66th minute.

The home side had plenty of chances to make the result more comfortable, with Jack Grealish’s struggles since becoming the British record transfer in the close season continuing as he missed from close range.

However, one goal proved enough for City who picked up their sixth successive league win to move four points clear of Liverpool, who host Aston Villa later on Saturday, at the top of the standings.

The game hinged on one moment of madness. Wolves looked comfortable going into the interval before Jimenez’s needless dismissal gave City the lift they needed.

The Mexico international received his first yellow card for a foul on midfielder Rodri and 31 seconds later got another for blocking Rodri’s free-kick, having not retreated far enough.

Referee Jon Moss ensured he won’t be welcome in Wolverhampton anytime soon after awarding City a second-half penalty for handball against Joao Moutinho.

The Portugal midfielder was adamant the ball hit his ribs but, following a long delay while the video assistant referee checked the incident, Moss’s decision stood.

Sterling slotted the penalty down the middle, becoming the 32nd player to reach 100 Premier League goals.

“(It) is a lovely achievement,” Sterling told BT Sport. “There are some fantastic players in that list. I’m really honoured to be in it now.

“We knew we (City) had to keep patient. They kept it really tight, but we knew if we kept playing we’d get an opportunity -and we did.”

Sterling’s 100th EPL goal earns City win
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