London, March 14: Manchester City only needs to win five of its remaining eight games to secure the Premier League trophy.
A 3-0 victory over Fulham on Saturday moved Pep Guardiola’s side 17 points ahead of second-place Manchester United, but having played two games more.
City is set to make it three titles in four seasons by dethroning eighth-place defending champion Liverpool.
After beating Liverpool last week, Fulham held off City for 47 minutes until John Stones tapped into the back of the net from a ball sent into the box by Joao Cancelo.
A fortunate rebound allowed City to extend its lead in the 56th minute. Joachim Andersen cleared the ball into Fulham teammate Ivan Cavaleiro, and it rebounded behind the home backline and into the path of Gabriel Jesus. He had enough time and space to round goalkeeper Alphonse Areola before putting the ball in the back of the net.
The third goal came on the hour after former City defender Tosin Adarabioyo pushed Ferran Torres in the box and referee Andre Marriner pointed immediately to the penalty spot. Sergio Aguero then fired the ball into the corner of the goal for his first Premier League goal in 14 months.
Meanwhile, Leandro Trossard’s second-half goal gave Brighton a much-needed 2-1 win at Southampton in the Premier League on Sunday.Lewis Dunk headed them ahead and, although Che Adams equalised for the home side with his third goal in three matches, Trossard conjured up a winner in the 56th minute as Southampton slimped to another defeat.
Later, Leicester City will face Sheffield United. (AP)
