Raheem Sterling’s first half strike seals all three points for Manchester city, despite a spirited fight from Southampton.
Kevin De Bruyne teamed up with Sterling to put the finish to a classy move for the Citizens. City made the most of the early exchanges, but couldn’t keep Saints down.
The Hampshire side were unafraid to press their opponents for possession. SFC also looked composed in possession but couldn’t find many clear-cut chances. Che Adams headed over from a difficult angle, James Ward Prowse threatened with dangerous corner balls, while Nathan Redmond lost his footing in front of goal at the crucial time.
The result sees Ralph Hasenhüttl’s men remain on 24 points and will now spend Christmas day just outside the top four. The visitors moved to within a point of Southampton and with a game in hand.
Here are the three key moments that impacted the course of Southampton 0 Manchester City 1.