Edin Dzeko has scored a first-half brace on his return to the Manchester City side to give the Premier League champions a 2-1 advantage over hosts Norwich City at the break.
The Bosnian frontman has built himself an unwanted reputation as a super-sub this season, but was handed a start this afternoon as Roberto Mancini rotated his attacking options.
Fellow forward Sergio Aguero played a part in both of his strike partner's goals as City stormed into a two-goal lead after just four minutes.
A long ball aimed for the Argentine was not dealt with by Sebastien Bassong, and Aguero pounced to find Samir Nasri, who in turn squared for Dzeko to smartly volley home.
Ninety second later, Dzeko had doubled his tally when Aguero latched onto Yaya Toure's through pass before cutting the ball back for the goalscorer to convert.
However, Norwich ensured that the visitors would not run away with the contest when Anthony Pilkington pulled a goal back after 14 minutes.
A soft free kick was awarded for Vincent Kompany's challenge on Robert Snodgrass, and Pilkington stepped up to beat Joe Hart, via a deflection, from the set piece.
Hopes of a Canaries comeback were increased when Nasri was dismissed on the verge of the interval for shoving his head towards Bassong, reacting to a challenge from the Cameroonian.
Joe Fish
