More of the same, urges City boss

Manuel Pellegrini challenged his Manchester City players to maintain their momentum throughout the season after powering to the top of the Barclays Premier League.

Pellegrini's team was given its toughest examination yet against a spirited Everton side at Goodison Park. But second–half goals from Aleksandar Kolarov and Samir Nasri earned a 2–0 win, their third in three games, taking them two points clear of the rest of the division.

After last season's disappointing runners–up finish to Chelsea – a side they swept aside last week – City have had a formidable start.

Manager Pellegrini said: "We are in a new season and we have started playing well in three games. We are a consistent team, a solid team, have shown we can score goals in every game and have three clean sheets. That is important. But we are just starting the season. We have to continue. The thing is to be a consistent team."