A late double from Edin Dzeko has given ten-man Manchester City a 2-1 win over West Bromwich Albion this afternoon.
© PA Photos
Micah Richards almost gave the visitors the lead after 14 minutes when he rose highest to meet a corner, but his header was tipped over by Ben Foster.
City's chances of recording an away win took a blow in the 23rd minute as James Milner was given his marching orders, having fouled Shane Long as the last man.
The 10 men of City still threatened, however, as Mario Balotelli danced past three defenders before stinging the palms of Foster from 10 yards.
The champions almost took the lead two minutes into the second half when Carlos Tevez struck a curling shot towards the top corner that Foster did well to claw away.
Yaya Toure squandered a golden chance from six yards out on the hour mark, and was punished with just over 20 minutes left of the match when Peter Odemwingie's strike was diverted past Hart by Long to give the hosts the lead.
Substitute Dzeko brought the scores back level in the 80th minute, however, beating Foster to Tevez's free kick.
Romelo Lukaku should have restored the Baggies' lead at the end of normal time but he directed his header straight at Hart when he should have done better.
City then did what champions do best and dug out a winner in the closing moments as Sergio Aguero fed Dzeko on the break, and the sub made no mistake to net his second of the game.
Barney Corkhill
