LONDON: Manchester City wasted a chance to go top of the Premier League as Carlos Tevez's decision to withdraw his transfer request failed to inspire the hosts in a 2-1 defeat against 10-man Everton Monday. A win at Eastlands would have put Roberto Mancini's side top at Christmas for the first time in 81 years and it got the perfect pre-match boost when captain Tevez revealed he has decided to stay at the club. But even the presence of the Argentine striker couldn't stop Everton claiming its first win in eight matches, leaving third placed City two points behind leader Manchester United. Everton midfielder Tim Cahill struck in the fourth minute with a close-range header before Leighton Baines curled in fine finish in the 19th minute. There was hope for City when Everton had striker Victor Anichebe sent off for a second yellow card following a lunge on Pablo Zabaleta in the second half. An own goal by Everton defender Phil Jagielka reduced the deficit in the 72nd minute, but David Moyes' men held on after City's Kolo Toure was dismissed in stoppage time. Hercules 0, Santander 0 Hercules came away from El Sardinero stadium with a point after a 0-0 draw with Racing Santander Monday to close round 16 of the Spanish League. Racing had the stronger first half, while Hercules played better after the break, but neither team generated enough chances to break the deadlock. The draw left Hercules 12th in the standings.
