Raheem Sterling is through on goal after being set free by Wilfried Bony, but he wastes the chance and shoot into the side netting after the Bournemouth defenders recover. 

Raheem Sterling not as sharp from outside the box on this evidence. The City forward has time and space to shoot from 25 yards but it's way, way over. 

At the other end, Charlie Daniels crosses from the left for the Cherries but Dan Gosling's header is well wide. 

Kevin De Bruyne feeds Jesus Navas, who crosses low to Wilfried Bony but the Ivorian shoots straight at Adam Federici. Let-off for Bournemouth. 

Half-chance for Glenn Murray, who collects a knock down following Joe Hart's goal-kick. But the shot from the Bournemouth is dragged wide. 

Image source, Gett

Bournemouth build well down the right but when it is switched to the left Matt Ritchie mis-controls it and City are away again. Fortunately for the visitors Andrew Surman shows a lot better composure in his own box to end the attack.

City's Bacary Sagna takes a knock from Simon Francis, but is back up on his feet. Just as well given City's shortage at left-back, which is where the Frenchman has been playing today. 

Christopher Nash: Dear Eddie Howe, fancy suggesting someone actually marks De Bruyne?

Chris Gould: Alas, Bournemouth have played nearly all of the easier teams already, and have at least five fewer points than they should.

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Image source, AFP

Bit of a lull in the game now. It's won, as far as City are concerned, they don't have to force it. Next move is down to Bournemouth. 

And here he is. Kevin De Bruyne plays in Raheem Sterling down the left, and although the cross is too deep, Pablo Zabaleta collects the ball and fires in a stinging shot which Adam Federici claws away. 

Kevin De Bruyne knows when to make his move inside, and link with others. He plays football very simply, but isn't that what all the best players do?

Little bit rusty from Bournemouth as they concede possession in midfield. City are working it down their left, which, funnily enough, is where Kevin De Bruyne has been lurking for most of the game. 

City get us under way again. 

One change in the City midfield as Fernando replaces Yaya Toure.

Ruthless from Raheem Sterling, who has had a busy half in the Bournemouth penalty area. He's had three shots and has three goals. 

Image source, Opta

Sergio Aguero scored five when they beat Newcastle 6-1 two weeks ago. Can Raheem Sterling match him? If Bournemouth defend like that in the second half, you can't rule it out. 

Garth Crooks
Former Spurs striker on Final Score

"Kevin de Bruyne has had a simply wonderful first half."

And that's it for the half. Breathless stuff and Raheem Sterling absolutely beaming. 

Image source, Getty Images

Dan Gosling breaks free for Bournemouth the release the pressure on their goal and wins a free-kick.