Three points the big thrill for Aguero

Sergio Aguero played down his own heroics after Manchester City got their title charge moving again with victory over his favourite whipping boys Newcastle.

The Argentinian proved the scourge of Newcastle yet again by hitting a hat-trick as Premier League leaders City ran out 3-1 winners at the Etihad.

City star Aguero put five past the Magpies in one game in 2015 and Saturday’s latest treble – his second of the season – took his overall tally against them to 14 in 12 games.

But it was City’s return to winning ways, after last week’s first league loss of the season at Liverpool, that most pleased Aguero.

The 29-year-old (pictured) said: “In the Premier League, all games are difficult, but obviously, against Newcastle, I have a really good record. That sometimes happens against teams and I am really happy for the goals, but especially for the three points.

“They were really important for us and that is really going to help us a lot in the race for the Premier League.”

City’s victory prevented any further erosion of a formidable 12-point lead.

It looked like being a comfortable day after Aguero, on his 200th Premier League appearance, put the hosts into a 2-0 lead.

He opened the scoring by getting the faintest of touches to a Kevin De Bruyne cross on 34 minutes and then doubled the lead with a penalty after Raheem Sterling was fouled.

Sterling also hit the post as City dominated, but Newcastle gave themselves hope with a fine breakaway goal from Jacob Murphy.

ButAguero completed a ‘perfect’ hat-trick of header, right and left-foot strikes, after a mazy Leroy Sane run seven minutes from time.

After the 4-3 defeat to Liverpool, Aguero felt City found a level they now need to maintain.

“It is going to depend on us,” said Aguero.

“We have a good team, we are in good shape.

“I think if we keep going the same way, the Premier League will be easier for us to win in the end.”