Boyd’s blast dents Manchester City’s faltering title challenge

Manchester City’s hopes of retaining the Premier League title suffered a massive blow as they slumped to an embarrassing 0-1 defeat against lowly Burnley at Turf Moor on Saturday. Manuel Pellegrini’s side were stunned as George Boyd (in pic) scored the decisive goal with a crisp half-volley to give the Clarets a deserved victory which boosted their survival hopes. The dismal display means reigning champions City are now five points behind leaders Chelsea, who host Southampton on Sunday, having played two games more than the west London club. It was also terrible preparation for their bid to overturn a 2-1 first leg deficit when they travel to Barcelona for a Champions League last 16 clash in midweek. City captain Vincent Kompany returned to the starting line-up after being an unused substitute for their 2-0 win over Leicester, while Pablo Zabaleta, Gael Clichy, Fernandinho and Edin Dzeko were all recalled. Burnley boss Sean Dyche made two changes as Michael Duff and Sam Vokes came in for Michael Keane and Michael Kightly. City struggled to find their rhythm throughout the contest and Burnley showed plenty of positive intent from the off. City registered a meaningful effort on target just before the half-hour mark when Fernandinho dispossessed Sam Vokes and slipped in Dzeko, who saw his low effort saved at the near post by Burnley goalkeeper Tom Heaton.