Albion boss Chris Hughton rued the goal by Sergio Aguero which killed off Albion against Manchester City at the Etihad today.

The lethal Argentinian striker had been kept quiet until starting from the halfway line and finishing the move for the champions' second goal in their comfortable 2-0 victory.

Aguero's effort midway through the second half doubled Albion's deficit after Raheem Sterling completed a devastating counter-attack for City's breakthrough on the half-hour.

Hughton said: "The first goal can happen. I'm really disappointed with the second goal. I thought we could have stopped it at source and at 1-0 you never know what can happen.

"You know you are going to concede a lot of possession. I wanted us to be better on the ball once we gained possession. In a 4-3-3 it's hard to press in the areas you would like to."

Hughton felt Albion should have been awarded a late lifeline by referee Lee Mason when the ball struck Fernandinho's arm from Beram Kayal's corner as he tried to head clear.

Hughton said: "We had a very clear shout for a penalty."

Pep Guardiola showed Albion respect by fielding a virtually full-strength side, despite Tuesday's important Champions League visit to Hoffenheim for City after losing their opening group game at home to Lyon.

Hughton added: "They are a top side and they probably have still not got into their best form yet. It's very difficult coming here. You can get beat big."