Guardiola: Lack of finishing ability cost Man City

Man City boss Pep Guardiola has rued his side’s failure to finish chances in front of goal and attributed that as the key reason for their failure to claim victory over Tottenham.

City were 2-0 up against Spurs through goals from Leroy Sane and Kevin de Bruyne but were pegged back through goals from Delle Alli and Son Heung-Min. However, City had 17 shots to Spurs’ six overall and were vastly the superior side, meaning this game will most certainly go down as two points dropped for the home side.

“We created and did not finish a lot chances, when this happens, we cannot win,” said Guardiola.

“We (must) create more and concede few and get the right decision of the referees. But like our performances against Everton and Chelsea we are not able to score goals so we get nothing.

“We drew because we missed a lot of chances, the same thing as in the Everton match.”

However, City should have been awarded a penalty when Raheem Sterling, through on goal, was pushed in the back by Kyle Walker, with the striker only able to direct his effort on goal into Hugo Lloris’ hands as a result. Referee Andre Marriner waved play on in this instance and Spurs levelled moment later, but Guardiola refused to blame refereeing for his side’s draw and instead continued to focus on their lack of finishing power in front of goal ,while also reserving exceptional praise for Spurs.

“We are playing Tottenham, a top, top, top team, and these things happen. If you make chances the referee doesn’t matter,” said Guardiola.

“Walker said he pushed him. So thank you Walker for being honest. I know this country likes people being honest. So I appreciate that.

“We played good with the ball and without the ball. Tottenham are the best team by far (in the Premier League) when you let them play. They have a lot of quality in the midfield players and the attacking midfielders, the wingers, the strikers, they are an outstanding team. When I at home I enjoy seeing Tottenham playing a lot.

“So, we were able today to play better than them so that’s why I’m so satisfied. But theses performances in the future will make us stronger.”

Photo: Getty/Paul Ellis

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