It doesn't seem fair to even call it a tackle. A more apt description would be “murder attempt.” Wolves found itself behind early against Manchester City, but center back Nathan Collins almost killed Man City winger Jack Grealish with a ridiculous challenge, as City cruised to a 3-0 win.
Wolves Red Card — Nathan Collins Horror Tackle On Jack Grealish
A straight red card to Nathan Collins for this foul on Jack Grealish. Wolves are down to 10 men.
— NBC Sports Soccer (@NBCSportsSoccer) September 17, 2022
The challenge that got Nathan Collins sent off.#COYBIG pic.twitter.com/8lyqh6S1we
— Kenny's Kids (@KennysKids) September 17, 2022
It is no secret that Grealish is fouled a substantial amount. What happened with Collins, however, had little to do with Grealish’s playstyle.
Just after the half-hour mark, Grealish fielded a pass in the air inviting Collins to press him. With a vicious rush of blood to the head, Collins threw a boot in above waist level, studs up and straight into the abdomen of the Man City winger.
There could be little protest as referee Anthony Taylor went straight for the red card to give the Irish international his marching orders.
Collins on Grealish #WOLMCI pic.twitter.com/L5QBW3onbZ
— Connor (@pickleleft6) September 17, 2022
Man City jumped ahead after just 55 seconds when Grealish scored his first goal for Man City this season. A second from Erling Haaland in the 16th minute was inevitable as the Cityzens continued to push forward.
Phil Foden made it 3-0 roughly midway through the second half, stopping any chance of a comeback from Wolves in its tracks.
A QUICK start for Manchester City!
Not even a minute into the match Jack Grealish finds the back of the net for City. #MCFC: @USA_Network & @NBCUniverso #MyPLMorning | #WOLMCI pic.twitter.com/A745JZf137
— NBC Sports Soccer (@NBCSportsSoccer) September 17, 2022
Seven @PLinUSA matches, 11 goals.
Erling Haaland can't stop scoring! He doubles Manchester City's lead over Wolves. #MCFC: @USA_Network & @NBCUniverso #MyPLMorning | #WOLMCI pic.twitter.com/ysZYdlAnhN
— NBC Sports Soccer (@NBCSportsSoccer) September 17, 2022
Haaland + De Bruyne + Foden = a third goal for Man City!
Manchester City lead Wolves 3-0 at Molineux.
: @USA_Network & @NBCUniverso #MyPLMorning | #WOLMCI pic.twitter.com/S0cANhH5OR— NBC Sports Soccer (@NBCSportsSoccer) September 17, 2022
Man City is still undefeated this season, but two draws have allowed Arsenal to retain the top spot, even with its loss away to Manchester United two weeks ago. The win against Wolves puts the Cityzens back atop the league until Sunday at the earliest.