Pablo Zabaleta's goal has given Manchester City a half-time lead over Stoke City at the Etihad Stadium.
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The Potters found it difficult to get out of their own half during the first 45 minutes as City were allowed to dominate possession.
David Silva and Sergio Aguero both called Asmir Begovic into action before the Argentine hit the post with a header in the 33rd minute.
The Citizens persevered and were eventually rewarded when Zabaleta got the vital touch to James Milner's cross two minutes before the interval.
