The Premier League title race took an unexpected turn on Monday night as defending champions Manchester City were held to a goalless draw at Crystal Palace.
City had numerous chances to score at Selhurst Park but couldn't find a way to beat Palace goalkeeper Vicente Guaita.
Pep Guardiola's side came close to breaking the deadlock through Kevin De Bruyne and Joao Cancelo, who both hit the post, while Bernardo Silva, Riyad Mahrez and Aymeric Laporte also missed good chances for the visitors.
Palace provided their own threat on the break and took a deserved point thanks to superb defensive performance.
The draw means league leaders City miss the chance to move six points clear of title rivals Liverpool.
Advert
They are now just four points ahead of the Reds, who have played a game less than Guardiola's side.
Liverpool will move to within one point of City if they beat Arsenal at the Emirates on Wednesday night.
Jurgen Klopp's side then face Watford on April 2, while City take on Burnley, before the two title rivals go head-to-head in a mouth-watering clash at the Etihad on April 10.
Speaking after the draw with Palace, Guardiola was reluctant to criticise his players for failing to score.
Advert
“We played a really good game, created a lot of chances – especially in the first half,” he told Sky Sports.
“[Palace] are a difficult side, they defended really well, tight. They had the rhythm [but] we played a really good game.”
When asked how big an impact the result could have on the title race, Guardiola added: “There are many games to play.
“I know we have to win a lot of games but the way we played, I have no regrets about the team.
Advert
“We would have preferred to win of course but the game was well played.”
Topics: Manchester City, Premier League, Football, Crystal Palace
Rory O'Callaghan