Manchester City remain six points behind Premier League leaders Liverpool after fighting back to clinch a thrilling late victory over Southampton. With the Reds simultaneously staging a similar last-gasp rescue act to overcome Aston Villa, it was a dramatic day at the top of the table that leaves the top two as they were, a week before they meet at Anfield. The overriding emotion on the final whistle at the Etihad Stadium was still relief at City's triumph, with the focus from the champions on securing three points rather than any potential Liverpool slip-up. Saints came within minutes of leaving Manchester with a remarkable point, just eight days after shipping nine goals at home to Leicester, before Kyle Walker's volley gave hosts victory. Southampton had taken an unlikely early lead when James Ward-Prowse pounced on an Ederson error and held out until Sergio Aguero hammered home Kyle Walker's cross with 20 minutes to go. That was City's first shot on target - testament to Southampton's incredible defensive display. The visitors' resistance was only ended when Angelino's cross was not cleared and Walker buried the loose ball.