EPL: Why Man City failed to beat Sunderland – Guardiola

Manchester City manager, Pep Guardiola, has praised Sunderland’s physicality following their 0-0 draw on New Year’s Day.

Guardiola’s men failed to score at the Stadium of Light, as the hosts maintained their unbeaten record at home.

The result means City are now four points behind leaders, Arsenal after 19 fixtures.

“Second half was excellent. We missed. We could not score in the six-yard box,” Guardiola told Sky Sports.

“How many times we were in the six-yard box against the keeper or the other one and could not convert.

“Of course, the threat they have, they are really good. Really pleased with the performances, especially in the second half.

“We create a lot against that team in this stadium, especially in the second half. The first half, we struggled simply because we struggled against their pressing but Rodri gave us the second pass, to break the lines, and we could run. Second half was much better.

“They are so physical. They’re so strong, so it’s not a surprise at that. We take the point. [It’s] a long way.

“The result is always what it is.”