England round-up: City enjoy capital gains

Manchester City FC remained in 12th place in the Premiership despite producing one of their best performances of the season in defeating Tottenham Hotspur FC 2-0 at White Hart Lane.

Sommeil opener
City are often criticised for their attacking approach in the Premiership, but it was a tactic which served them well from the start on a blissfully sunny day in the capital. Kevin Keegan's side went in front after just three minutes when David Sommeil, the French midfield player, took advantage of some indecisive defending to head in a corner from six metres.

Early chances
In truth, Tottenham had been lucky to survive that long as Nicolas Anelka almost scored in the opening seconds after being gifted possession by Ledley King. Then, in the second minute, diminutive forward Shaun Wright-Phillips raced clear on goal only to see his deft chip tipped over the crossbar by goalkeeper Kasey Keller.

Deflected goal
City increased their lead in the 21st minute when a shot from the 20-year-old Joey Barton deflected past Keller. Tottenham introduced Kazuyuki Toda at half-time but the Japanese international failed to inspire Glenn Hoddle's side despite becoming only the second player from his country to feature in England's top flight. Spurs stayed eighth with 48 points, City are two points and four places below.