MAHREZ STARS IN CRUCIALWIN

Algeria international RiyadMahrez was one of the best players during the league clash between Manchester City and West Ham United over the weekend. The Algeria national team star provided an assist as Manchester City beat the Hammers 2-1 at home to close the gap on leaders Chelsea.

Manchester City took the lead when German midfielder IlkayGundogan applied the finish from close off the assist from Algeria international Mahrez who became more of a threat when he moved from a false nine position to the right side of the attack and it was not surprising that he was involved for the goal in the 33^rd minute.

Premier League holders Manchester City were dominant in possession against West Ham United in the first half especially when Algeria player Mahrez moved to the right side of the attack. The Hammers were fortunate to end the first half with a one-goal deficit after defender Ben Johnson made a goal-line clearance to deny Brazilian attacker Gabriel Jesus from scoring for the hosts. The lively Mahrezalso hit the post in the first half.

Manchester City sealed the points on the stroke of full-time when substitute Fernandinhopassed the ball into the back of the net. Fernandinho then had his pocket picked by West Ham substitute Manuel Lanzini who launched an unstoppable shot to score a consolation goal for the Londoners.

With the slim win, Manchester City were able to move level on points with leaders Chelsea ahead of their meeting with struggling Manchester United at home. The Blues stayed at the summit with a better goal difference than the holders ahead of their home clash with the Red Devils. At the end of their game with Manchester United, Chelsea were unable to re-establish their three-point lead over the Citizens after they were forced to a 1-1 draw.

As things stand on the Premier League standings, Chelsea are one point ahead of Manchester City in second place and two points ahead of Liverpool in third place after 14 rounds of games.