De Bruyne helps Man City move tantalisingly close
WOLVERHAMPTON: Kevin De Bruyne produced a string of devastating finishes in scoring four of Manchester City's goals in a 51 win at Wolverhampton yesterday to restore its threepoint lead over Liverpool in the English Premier League title race.
In a masterful attacking display, De Bruyne completed his hattrick by the 24th minute before adding his fourth on the hour mark with another clinical strike to ensure there was no way back for Wolves, who had equalised through Leander Dendoncker in the
11th.
Raheem Sterling wrapped up the scoring in the 84th as City made it five goals for the second straight match, after a 50 win over Newcastle on Monday.
Crucially, City's goal difference is now superior to Liverpool's by seven, potentially meaning Guardiola's team might need to win only one of its final two games — against West Ham on Monday and Aston Villa a week later — to retain the title.
Chelsea increased Leeds United's relegation fears with a 30 win and also boosted its own hopes of qualifying for the Champions League.
The Blues consolidated third spot, four points ahead of Arsenal having played one more game, with goals from Mason Mount, Christian Pulisic and Romelu Lukaku sealing all three points at Elland Road.
Leeds stays third from bottom, while 16thplaced Everton were forced to settle for a point after a 00 draw at alreadyrelegated Watford.
At King Power Stadium, Jamie Vardy scored twice and James Maddison the other to help Leicester beat lastplaced Norwich 30 and snap a sevengame winless run in all competitions.
Australian manager Ange Postecoglou has sealed his triumphant season with Celtic by winning the Scottish Premiership.
The Bhoys claimed their 52nd Scottish title with a nervy 11 draw at Dundee United yesterday. It left their deposed city rivals Rangers unable to catch them at the top of the table, as they went four points clear with just one game left. — AP/AAP