Half-Time Report: Goalless at the Etihad

Manchester City and Wigan Athletic have played out a goalless first half in an even contest at the Etihad Stadium.

Wigan started confidently at the home of the Premier League champions but the Latics struggled to break down a stubborn City defence in the early stages.

© PA Photos

Roberto Mancini's side recovered from their timid start to take control of the contest midway through the first half, with Sergio Aguero just failing to find the target following a clever bit of trickery.

Aleksandar Kolarov was close to inadvertently putting the ball into his own net when Jean Beausejour whipped in a dangerous cross but the Serbian managed to clear the danger.

© AP Photos

Joe Hart was finally forced into a save later in the first half when Franco Di Santo fired at goal but the England goalkeeper reacted superbly to block the effort.

The hosts almost punished Wigan immediately after Di Santo's chance but Carlos Tevez fired wide of the target from inside the box.