Erling Haaland continues fine form in Man City win over Brighton

 Erling Haaland continues fine form in Man City win over Brighton

Erling Haaland expanded his Premier League tally to an incredible 17 goals in 11 games as he netted a brace in Manchester City's 3-1 win over Brighton on Saturday.

Kevin de Bruyne got a shoutout of late to end hopes of a spirited Brighton return as City sit second behind leaders Arsenal playing on Sunday.

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Pep Guardiola made three changes from the side that lost to Liverpool last weekend, as defender Aymeric Laporte made his first start of the season.

Haaland appealed a penalty on 19 minutes after being brought down by goalkeeper Robert Sánchez, but his arguments were overruled by referee Craig Poson and the Video Assistant Referee (VAR).

It delayed Haaland only a few minutes, however, as he shouldered Brighton defender Adam Webster and slammed home into an empty net to break the deadlock. The Norway striker added another, this time in 43 minutes from the penalty spot, as he continued to play with the Brighton defence.

Brighton started the second half well and were rewarded in 54 minutes when Leandro Trossard pulled one back with a rifle shot from the edge of the box.

Roberto de Zerbi's side pushed for an equalizer but the game was put beyond doubt on the 75th minute when De Bruyne made a brilliant penetrating effort from 25 yards.