Manchester City recorded their first away win of the Premier League season on Saturday night thanks to a 3-1 victory at West Ham United.
Sergio Aguero scored twice to put the visitors in a commanding position before Ricardo Vaz Te pulled a goal back for the home team with 30 minutes left.
However, David Silva found the net late on the seal the points for Manuel Pellegrini's side.
Here, Sports Mole runs its eye over the action between the teams.
Match statistics:
West Ham:
Shots 11
On target 2
Possession 37%
Corners 5
Fouls 7
Man City:
Shots 15
On target 9
Possession 63%
Corners 5
Fouls 12
Was the result fair?
West Ham United certainly gave it a go against Manchester City, but the visitors proved too much in the end as they picked up a deserved win. They soaked up most of the pressure in defence while looking typically dangerous in attack. There are still a few things to sort out for the Blues, though Manuel Pellegrini will have been pleased with what he saw. As for West Ham, Sam Allardyce can take plenty of positives from the display of his players, particularly in the second half.
West Ham's performance
Not playing a recognised striker proved to be a failed tactic for the home side as they struggled up front in the first half. However, they were much improved after the break with a determined display from front to back. They used the width of the pitch well and had their opponents on the rack once they pulled a goal back. One thing that cannot be dismissed, though, is that there was a worrying lack of authority in defence for the Hammers. They were cut open far too often, and Sergio Aguero's second goal was a shambles in terms of marking.
Man City's performance
This was one of City's slickest displays of the season so far as midfield and attack linked up with devastating effect. The incisive passing was often a joy to watch, while some better finishing could have seen them bag another couple of goals. Their away form had been a question before the match, but they will have silenced a lot of critics with this showing.
Sports Mole's man of the match
Sergio Aguero: The bullish striker took both of his goals well and set up David Silva for the visitors' third. On his day he is a force of nature up front, and this was his day.
Biggest gaffe
West Ham boss Sam Allardyce probably won't be playing without a proper striker anytime soon as the tactical mistake restricted his side for a large portion of the game.
Referee performance
Michael Oliver played his part by allowing the game to flow and become an end-to-end contest as it wore on. There may have been a couple of questionable decisions, but this was an accomplished display.
What next?
West Ham: The Hammers return to Premier League action next Sunday when they travel to Swansea City.
Man City: The Blues continue their Champions League campaign on Wednesday when they take on CSKA Moscow in Russia.
Jack Prescott
