Guardiola: It was not our best night

Cape Town - Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola admitted his charges shortcomings following a difficult 2-1 loss at Newcastle United on Tuesday.

When perennial goalscorer Sergio Aguero found the back of the net in just 24 seconds to open the scoring, it looked to be business as usual for the ruthless Citizens.

But Salomon Rondon equalised in the 66th minute and Matt Ritchie fired home from the penalty spot in the 80th after Fernandinho brought down Sean Longstaff, leading to City’s fourth league defeat of the season.

"It was not our best night," admitted the Spaniard on BBC Sport.

"We lost second balls, we were not aggressive enough, that's why we could not win. Our game was slow, we didn't commit.

"They shoot for the first time and it's a goal, the second was a penalty. But congratulations to Newcastle.

"Sometimes things go your way and sometimes they don't - we had won eight games in a row and scored 30 goals without reply."

Guardiola is also under no illusions as to the challenge that lies ahead for the defending champions, as log-leaders Liverpool could go seven points clear when they host Leicester City on Wednesday.

Not only that, but City have a tough set of games ahead.

"Next week will be tough with Arsenal, Everton and Chelsea," he continued.

"If we want to go up as a club we have to accept that challenge. There are a lot of titles and points to play for."