1. City Hold Off Determined Liverpool
Liverpool's
trip to the Etihad Stadium was billed as a key test of their title ambitions, and predictably they came up just short. They gave Manuel Pellegrini's Man City side an almighty scare after Philippe Coutinho's opening goal, but Simon Mignolet will not sleep easy tonight after his weak attempt at keeping out an Alvaro Negredo shot gifted City a victory. Joe Hart can relate, but the England man cemented his own comeback with a commanding performance. The second half performance of Brendan Rodgers' side will give him confidence that Liverpool can sustain their surprise title challenge into the New Year. Realistically though, the manner of this defeat will at least provide further evidence that the Champions League is now a realistic and not merely hopeful target. The runners from midfield, married with a typically industrious and trick-filled Luis Suarez performance were a joy to watch at times. Jordan Henderson laid down a marker for his inclusion in England's World Cup midfield, and Raheem Sterling's pace gave the City defense severe problems. They held firm however, and Vincent Kompany also proved the difference at their attacking end of the pitch. City have enjoyed some scintillating performances at home this season, blowing teams away, but this was one of their more even encounters. It is fast becoming a cliche, but if they can sort out their away form, Man City will walk away with a second title in three years. Such a battling performance will raise hopes that this can be done, and they remain a frightening proposition. Which moments defined Boxing Day for you? Share your picks below in the comments thread.