A measured look at the moves — done and rumoured — that could tilt the title race.

It was a performance that spoke to the side's growing maturity — patient in possession, ruthless in the moments that mattered, and disciplined when the game asked questions of them. The numbers tell part of the story, but the control on the pitch told the rest.

There is a long way to go, of course. The schedule does not relent and the margins at the top remain razor-thin. But on this evidence, the foundations are solid and the belief is real.

“We talked all week about staying calm and trusting the plan. The players were outstanding.”

Attention now turns to a demanding run of fixtures that will define the season's shape. For now, though, the supporters can savour a statement afternoon.