Manchester City had to work hard for a 2-0 win over Wigan this evening.

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There were opportunities for both sides in the opening minutes of the game. Sergio Aguero missed a header, before Arouna Kone forced Joe Hart into a save at the other end just moments later.

Aguero saw his second effort hit the side netting.

Wigan's defensive formation saw all 11 players in the final third of the pitch at times towards the end of the first half.

Roberto Mancini's side showed more energy in the early stages of the second half as they pushed for a goal, Mario Balotelli heading a chance just wide.

The home side responded to the change in pace, Kone enjoying another opportunity to put Wigan ahead, but poor timing on the header saw the effort drift wide.

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A Jordi Gomez shot went the same way minutes later.

The deadlock was broken in the 69th minute through a close-range Balotelli strike, and James Milner doubled the advantage for the champions three minutes later.

Man City looked the better side for the remainder of the game, the two-goal cushion giving the visitors more confidence.

The win sees the champions remain just one point behind Manchester United.