Manchester City are back in second place in the Premier League after a thrilling 3-0 win over Everton at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday as Pep Guardiola's side responded by reminding Chelsea and Liverpool of their class wins.
Everton dominated Champions City from the start as the team struggled to keep their foot in the game, but made some real openings in the first half hour.
Guardiola was disappointed when Rahim Sterling was awarded a penalty after challenging Michael Keane, but referee Stuart Atwell overturned his decision after reviewing the incident on the Pitchside Monitor.
One minute before the break, Sterling put City ahead, after a great pass to the side-footing home, full-back Joao Cancello hit the outside of the foot.
Spanish midfielder Rodri made it 2-0 with a thunderous long-strike from more than 20 meters that put Everton keeper Jordan Pickford behind.
Although Sterling missed a great opportunity to end the competition, Riyad Mahrez's low cross did not control the ball in front of the goal.
The 19-year-old Cole Palmer, who started his first Premier League, set Mahrez up for a chance and it was his blocked shot pounded by Bernardo Silva who quietly slotted the third.
"We have given rhythm to our game, they have defended very well in the counter-attack. In general, we have controlled the game. We have to play to beat a team like Everton," said Guardiola.
He added: "It's always tough when a team comes in just to defend and you have to be careful. We've made a difference in the quality of the players."
Chelsea are at the top of the table with 29 points, City are three points behind and Liverpool are one point behind.
Rafa Benitez's Everton are 11th with six wins and 15 points.
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