Match Analysis: Manchester City 1-0 West Bromwich Albion

Manchester City hosted West Bromwich Albion in their last match before they take to Wembley for the FA Cup final on Saturday.

In the meantime, City were looking to cement second place in the Premier League, and a win against the Baggies would certainly help.

Albion have already essentially finished for the season, with neither Europe or relegation possible, but, having already set a new record for their best ever Premier League campaign, they were be keen to finish on a high note.

In a game of many chances, it was City who netted the only goal of the game in the first half.

Sports Mole

Match statistics:

Manchester City: Shots 21 On target 9 Possession 50% Corners 6 Fouls 10

West Brom: Shots 20 On target 11 Possession 50% Corners 8 Fouls 9

Was the result fair?

Probably yes. Both sides had a ton of chances, but City probably had the better of the,, and scored a stunning goal through Edin Dzeko. Albion started strongly and always threatened, but once they got going, City probably edged it.

Manchester City's performance

In parts, superb. It was as if they didn't leave the changing rooms until 20 minutes into the match, but once they hit their stride, City played some wonderful stuff to all but secure a runners-up spot in the Premier League, heading into their FA Cup final.

West Brom's performance

Despite having nothing to really play for, Albion were very impressive. The Baggies took the game to City in the opening 20 minutes, and should have gone in front. Even at 1-0 down, they still created chances, but in the end they were beaten by a stronger side.

Sports Mole's man of the match

Carlos Tevez: Easy. Carlos Tevez was a star once again for City. He was the hub of the side's creativity, and popped up all over the place for the hosts. He was unlucky to see his sublime effort cannon off the crossbar, but played a massive part in the game's winning goal.

Biggest gaffe

Roberto Mancini gets this award for bringing on Maicon. Everyone remembers that wonder goal he scored for Brazil at the 2010 World Cup with the outside of his boot, and he tried to replicate that tonight. The only thing that went wrong was the fact that the ball ended up in Row Z.

Referee performance

Phil Dowd did well in a game that was frantic at times. He correctly booked Aleksandar Kolarov for a high challenge, while showing yellow cards to both Samir Nasri and Claudio Yacob for a touch of handbags in the second half.

What next?

Manchester City: City have the small matter of an FA Cup final to attend to against Wigan Athletic at Wembley on Saturday.

West Brom: Steve Clarke's men can now rest up until Sunday, when they travel to Norwich City.