City take control with hard-fought victory

De Bruyne and Sterling goals send hosts three points clear in Group F

MANCHESTER CITY 2 SHAKTAR DONETSK 0

Kevin De Bruyne and Raheem Sterling struck as Manchester City moved clear in Champions League Group F with a nervy win over the Ukrainians.

De Bruyne broke the deadlock on what proved a testing night with a fine shot early in the second half before substitute Sterling wrapped up victory late on.

Sergio Aguero, one short of equalling the club’s long-standing scoring record, endured a frustrating evening and had a penalty saved by Andriy Pyatov.

The Argentinian will now have to wait until the weekend trip to Chelsea for another chance but that was a mere side issue as City claimed a hard-fought three points against a visiting side who showed plenty of attacking intent, especially in the first half.

De Bruyne played down his own performance while praising visitors Shakhtar.

“Well I definitely think it’s not my best game,” the Belgian said. “It’s just the way it goes today but this team can definitely play some football. They’re very skilful guys.

“The first half was very difficult for both sides but the second half we were better, kept the ball better and created more chances.”

Napoli beat Feyenoord 3-1 in the other game in the group to join Shaktar on three points, three behind City.

Picture: PA. Kevin de Bruyne, centre, is congratulated after opening the scoring for City.

Sergio Aguero: missed the chance to equal City’s goalscoring record when he saw his penalty saved.