Phil Foden’s first-half strike proved enough to give Manchester City a hard-fought 1-0 Premier League win against Bournemouth at Vitality Stadium on Saturday.

The Blues struck in the 24th minute after fine work by Erling Haaland, who saw his shot parried into Foden‘s path and the England star swept the ball home. Though City dominated most of the first half, Bournemouth came on strongly after the break and had two chances cleared off the line.

The home side fought to the final whistle and will feel they should have perhaps earned a rare point against their jinx side who have now won all 14 Premier League meetings against them.

It was evident from the opening few minutes that Andoni Iraola is shaping an organised, physical, and hard-working side.The hosts pressed high with aggression, but City soon found some rhythm and should have taken the lead with just nine minutes played.

The Blues had largely been in control with Foden a constant threat, dictating play and creating chances for his team-mates, so when City finally took the lead in the 24th minute, it was no surprise that it was the England playmaker who made the breakthrough.

Mateo Kovacic spotted Haaland’s clever dart into the box, chipped the ball towards him and the big No.9 expertly held off the challenge off his marker, fired a shot in and though keeper Neto pushed the shot out, Foden was first to the loose ball to score his 16th goal of an already magnificent season.