Premier League: Man City 4-0 Crystal Palace - John Stones' brace help Citizens to second

Manchester City have clinched the second spot after easing past Crystal Palace in their Premier League encounter at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday 17.

John Stones celebrates goal for Manchester City. Photo: @ManCity

John Stones netted a brace for Manchester City to help Pep Guardiola's arisen title contenders climb to second with just two points behind Manchester United who won a point against Liverpool at Anfield following a goalless draw.

Kevin de Bruyne's 100th assist in all competitions for Manchester City since joining in 2015 was well converted by John Stones to open scoring for the hosts in the 26th minute.

Two goals for John Stones ⬇

"Two goals for myself and obviously I’m delighted! I put a lot of pressure on myself to score goals. I need to contribute and bring that to my game. I’ve been trying hard and the hard work on the training pitch are paying off. I’m glad to contribute."

🔷 #ManCity pic.twitter.com/bVMTxbd32Y

— Manchester City (@ManCity) January 17, 2021

Shortly after the break, the Citizens who were in total control of the clash got their second goal through Ilkay Gundogan in the 56th minute.

Full-Time at the Etihad Stadium: Manchester City 4-0 Crystal Palace ⬇

FULL-TIME | Up into second with a game in hand 👏

Another clean sheet as our imperious run of results continues!

What a team!

🔷 4-0 🦅 #ManCity | https://t.co/axa0klD5re pic.twitter.com/QrGblO11mh

— Manchester City (@ManCity) January 17, 2021

In the 68th minute, Stones completed his brace to make it three for Man City and Raheem Sterling sealed victory for the home side in the 88th minute.

Manchester City are now second with 35 points while Crystal Palace are 13th with 23 points.