Premier League 2018-19, Manchester City 3-1 Watford: 5 Talking Points & Tactical Analysis

#4 Officiating decision sets tone as City dominate in second-half

Referee Paul Tierney was embroiled in a dubious officiating decision

Watford held firm for 45 minutes and just like Bournemouth did, appeared dead set on ruining City's title hopes to earn a share of the spoils - but aided by a dubious officiating decision, City took the lead just 40 seconds after the restart.

Aguero's chest pass was teed up perfectly for an offside Sterling and Daryl Janmaat's sliding attempt at clearing the danger inadvertently turned the ball into the back of his own net. As he attempted to play the ball and touched it, Sterling being offside didn't matter.

However, the winger was still trying to play the ball and therefore active - so theoretically, the goal shouldn't have stood. Just four minutes later, Sterling completed his brace after good work down the right-hand side by Riyad Mahrez. Watford were down and seemingly out, their defensive strategy effectively foiled and City with the wind in their sails.

With the hosts having scored 15 goals between the 45th and 60th minute in top-flight fixtures this term, perhaps you shouldn't be surprised. City attack with relentless speed and numbers in space, while the likes of David Silva and Ilkay Gundogan spray enticing forward passes which split defences and open bigger gaps.