Manchester City have moved a step closer to winning their first league title since 1968 by recording a 2-0 victory away at Newcastle United this afternoon.
The visiting Citizens dominated the encounter from the outset, enjoying large spells in possession at the Sports Direct Arena.
Their first chance fell to Carlos Tevez, but the Argentine striker saw his effort from 25 yards out held by Newcastle goalkeeper Tim Krul.
Newcastle produced their first meaningful attack in the 32nd minute. Demba Ba saw his shot blocked by Gael Clichy and when the rebound fell to Hatem Ben Arfa, City goalkeeper Joe Hart was on hand to parry the Frenchman's effort off target.
As the half drew to a close Gareth Barry had two chances to put City in front. His first shot was blocked by Krul, while Davide Santon got back on the line to hack away his second shot.
City continued to dominate after the restart as they went about finding the goal that would go a long way to sealing the Premier League title.
It finally arrived 20 minutes from time courtesy of Yaya Toure, who exchanged passes with Sergio Aguero on the edge of the box before curling the ball beyond the reach of Krul.
Aguero and Toure both had chances to seal the victory in the closing stages, but neither could get their shots on target after being put through on goal.
However, Toure did manage to wrap up the points in the 89th minute when he converted a low cross from full-back Clichy.
Newcastle responded with numerous attacks, but they were unable to beat Hart in the away goal.
City are now three points ahead of rivals Manchester United in second place. They also have a ten-goal better goal difference over their neighbours.
Liam Apicella
