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KANSAS. — Manchester City stepped up preparations for their English Premier League soccer title defence with a 4-1 victory over MLS champions Sporting Kansas City yesterday. City went ahead early on in the pre-season friendly via Bruno Zuculini but the hosts soon showed their own threat, with CJ Sapong hitting the crossbar before Dom Dwyer had a goal ruled out for offside.

Sapong then finally equalised on the half-hour mark when he beat City keeper Willy Caballero from Benny Feilhaber’s cross.
However, City went in 2-1 ahead at the break thanks to Dedryck Boyata’s goal on the stroke of half-time, heading home from Jesus Navas’ free-kick.

City replaced Gael Clichy with Micah Richards at the break, while the hosts fielded an entire new XI for the second period.
Manuel Pellegrini’s side extended their lead when Aleksandar Kolarov converted from the penalty spot following a foul on Scott Sinclair by Michael Kafari.

Young Nigerian trialist striker Kelechi Iheanacho then added a fourth with two minutes remaining as Pellegrini’s side completed their victory in style.

Meanwhile, a late Marco Borriello goal gave Roma a 1-0 friendly win over Liverpool at Boston’s Fenway Park on Wednesday.
The 32-year-old striker, who spent the second half of last season on loan at West Ham, steered the ball home from a 90th-minute corner through the legs of Jack Robinson, despite the close attentions of Daniel Agger.

Sunderland transfer target Fabio Borini was named in the Reds’ starting line-up alongside Rickie Lambert, but the Italian was forced off with a shoulder injury in the 12th minute.

However, speaking after the match, Reds boss Brendan Rodgers played down the severity of the knock. — Sky Sports.