City frustrated by Potters as Sterling is rested

Stoke frustrated Manchester City as they held out for a goalless draw in their rearranged Premier League clash at the Etihad Stadium.

City, who rested the in-form Raheem Sterling, came to life after a drab first half but were unable to find a way through the Potters’ stubborn rearguard. The result lifted City level with second-placed Tottenham but the overwhelming feeling at the final whistle was of an opportunity missed.

Sterling was not included in the matchday squad while the influential David Silva only appeared as a secondhalf substitute as manager Pep Guardiola rotated his resources.

It was not until first-half injury time City got behind the Stoke defence, but Kevin de Bruyne missed his kick stretching to reach a Nicolas Otamendi long ball.

City showed greater intent after the break, especially after the introduction of Silva as replacement for Jesus Navas. But despite creating some chances, the frustration continued.

Leroy Sane left Stoke’s Bruno Martins Indi trailing with another lightning burst to tee up Sergio Aguero but Erik Pieters managed to deflect the Argentine’s shot wide.

Sane had an opportunity himself after good work from De Bruyne but a ricochet off Joe Allen caused him to lash over the bar. Yaya Toure also fired over and Silva dragged a gilt-edged chance narrowly wide. Another drive from Silva was deflected for a corner and Otamendi headed over from the set-piece.