Sterling seals City win over Watford

Raheem Sterling’s rapid second-half hat-trick for log-leaders Manchester City sealed a 31 win over Watford as Tottenham’s hopes of a top-four finish faltered again in a 2-1 defeat to Southampton in the English Premier League on Saturday.

The Saints’ spirited secondhalf comeback ensured they remain two points above the relegation zone despite Cardiff’s 2-0 win over West Ham, while victory for Brighton and Newcastle also boosted their survival hopes.

City and Sterling had fortune on their side to end Watford’s resistance after a goalless first half.

A minute into the second period Sterling was initially flagged offside as Daryl Janmaat’s attempted clearance ricocheted off the England winger and into the net.

However, after a long discussion with his assistant, referee Paul Tierney awarded the goal because Janmaat’s intervention meant Sterling was onside.

Sterling rounded off a fine team move involving David Silva and Riyad Mahrez four minutes later.

Sterling then completed his hat-trick with some neat footwork from Silva’s pass before Watford substitute Gerard Deulofeu pulled a goal back 22 seconds after coming on.

Tottenham reached the quarterfinals of the Champions League in midweek, but are now in grave danger of missing out on that competition completely next season.

Dele Alli made his return after seven weeks out with a hamstring injury and the England midfielder teed up Harry Kane to score his 200th career goal on 26 minutes.

However, Spurs’ wastefulness in failing to add to their lead came back to cost them as Ralph Hassenhuettl’s men improved after the break and secured a vital three points in their attempt to beat the drop.

Fresh from scoring his first professional goal away to Manchester United last weekend, right-back Yan Valery levelled from Stuart Armstrong’s cross.

James Ward-Prowse then completed the comeback with a stunning free kick curled into the top corner to leave Hugo Lloris helpless. Newcastle remain six points above relegation and are in 13th spot after coming from 2-0 down to beat Everton 3-2.

Brendan Rodgers secured his first win as Leicester boss thanks to Jamie Vardy’s double to beat Fulham, who are now 13 points adrift of safety, 3-1.

Huddersfield also look dead and buried as Bournemouth cruised to their first away win since October with a 2-0 victory at the John Smith’s Stadium.

Cardiff, though, gave themselves hope as early goals in each half from Junior Hoilett and Victor Camarasa gave the Welsh side a precious three points over a hugely disappointing West Ham. –