MANCHESTER CITY’S HOPES of claiming a third consecutive Premier League title suffered a fresh blow as Jonjo Shelvey’s superb late strike helped Newcastle United to a 2-2 draw at St James’ Park.

City looked like set to cruise to all three points when Raheem Sterling scored his eighth Premier League goal of the campaign midway through the first half, but they were pegged back by Jetro Willems’ fierce drive three minutes later.

Kevin De Bruyne restored City’s lead eight minutes from time with a stunning half-volley, yet Pep Guardiola’s side were denied a vital victory by Shelvey’s equally wonderful strike in the 88th minute.

Sterling squandered a huge chance to win it in stoppage time, and the result means City could end the day 11 points behind leaders Liverpool if Jurgen Klopp’s side overcome Brighton and Hove Albion at Anfield.