This archive report was first published on 20 October 2019.
Manchester City's 2-0 win over Crystal Palace on Saturday marked a return to winning ways for the defending champions, but manager Pep Guardiola expressed his desire for his team to be more clinical in their approach.
Guardiola praised his side's performance, stating, "We played good, created a lot of chances. They are always so strong for the second ball. Unfortunately, we could not convert the chances we had but it was an important three points after the international break."
The match saw City dominate possession and create numerous scoring opportunities, but Palace goalkeeper Wayne Hennessey kept his side in the game with several outstanding saves.
City eventually broke the deadlock in the 39th minute when Bernardo Silva's left-footed cross found Gabriel Jesus, who inadvertently headed the ball into the net off the far post.
Just two minutes later, City doubled their lead following a speedy counter-attack, with Raheem Sterling producing a delightful chip into the path of David Silva, who guided the ball into the net.
Palace occasionally looked threatening, but failed to capitalize on their few opportunities to test City's back four.
Guardiola praised his makeshift defence, which included John Stones making his first appearance since September, and expressed his hope that the team could start from this performance and continue their good form.
City's next two Premier League games against Aston Villa and Southampton look winnable, but they face a crucial match against Liverpool at Anfield on November 10.
