TheCable

Champions Manchester City climbed up to second in the Barclays Premier League table with a comfortable 3-0 victory over Southampton at St Mary’s Stadium.

The visitors felt they should have been awarded a penalty for a foul on Sergio Aguero in a goalless first half, but Yaya Toure put them in front at the start of the second.

Man City were reduced to 10 men when Eliaquim Mangala was sent off for a second bookable offence with 15 minutes remaining, but substitute Frank Lampard eased their nerves with a clinical strike before Gael Clichy added a third late on.

The win moved them above Southampton with 27 points from 13 games, while the Saints are a point behind.

Roberto Soldado scored his first league goal since March to hand Tottenham a hard-fought victory over Everton.

The Spanish striker worked hard throughout the game and received his reward with a composed finish to earn Spurs a third successive win.

Everton will be disappointed at allowing a stunning 20-yard strike from Kevin Mirallas count for nothing, but were often far too predictable in possession.

Tottenham’s win elevates them to seventh-place, just two-points behind Manchester United in the Champions League qualification places.

Everton’s inconsistent season continues, and are tenth on the log – level with Merseyside rivals Liverpool.