Impervious City shrug off chaos and controversy to silence Anfield | Andy Hunter

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The only body of irrefutable evidence in City’s favour since the guilty verdicts landed is that Enzo Maresca’s league leaders appear immune to prosecution and persecution.That may well change depending on the outcome of City’s appeal and any punishment that eventually arises, likewise the merits and value of a commanding 3-0 win on Liverpool soil. The sight of Erling Haaland savouring a statement victory in front of City’s supporters after the final whistle, while chants of “going down” echoed around the rest of the stadium, captured the schism at the heart of this Premier League season.City were transformed by the introduction of Jérémy Doku and the dismissal of the Liverpool midfielder Ryan Gravenberch.

Knowing that no one outside City will give them credit for another title triumph did not affect them here, however.In the 17 days since news of City’s guilt first emerged, and the gestation period of a prolonged international break, their return to action in a Premier League undermined and distorted by their 114 breaches had been built up as a chastening day of reckoning for Maresca’s side. “A generation of supporters cheated,” cut to the heart of the issue confronting not only Liverpool but the Premier League itself.Liverpool supporters point out that their side finished second to Manchester City three times in the space of eight years.

The four men who walked on to the pitch carrying the Premier League hoardings before kick-off received a more hostile reception than City’s players when they appeared for the warm-up.skip past newsletter promotionafter newsletter promotionThe decision for City’s team coach to arrive by a different route ensured a tame reception for the visitors. All eyes were on the usual entrance on Anfield Road as City were ushered in from the opposite side of the stadium – so.