Feature

Fine margins give City edge in title race

29 Apr 2019
John Stones clearance crop 2

Goal Decision System confirms Aguero's winner at Burnley after Stones' goalline clearance v Liverpool in January

Related Articles
Talking points: Super Sergio's fine margin External Link
The history of goalline technology
2018/19 Premier League title race

One of the closest ever Premier League title races could come down to a matter of centimetres.

Liverpool’s only Premier League defeat this season came at Manchester City in January.

But it could have been so different. At 0-0, City defender John Stones prevented Liverpool taking the lead by clearing the ball just 1.12cm from it crossing the goalline.

And Pep Guardiola’s side were again grateful on Sunday to the Goal Decision System (GDS), which was introduced by the Premier League from 2013/14.

Burnley goalkeeper Tom Heaton slowed down Sergio Aguero’s 63rd-minute shot before Matthew Lowton hacked the ball away, but GDS showed that it had crossed the line by a mere 2.95cm.

GDS comparison

It proved the winning strike as City triumphed 1-0 at Turf Moor to regain top spot.

With the race to be Premier League champions set to go down to the wire, such fine margins might make all the difference.

Latest Videos

More Videos

Video is currently not available.

21 Nov 2024

From then to now: Pep Guardiola's Premier League journey

Look back on the Man City manager's career so far after he signed a new contract

Your details have been submitted successfully.

You have already entered this competition. Please check your email for further information.

Your details have been submitted successfully.

Create a Premier League account

Continue

You are logged in as

Enter your details