Andy Naylor and Brian Owen given their verdicts on how the Albion players performed at the Etihad.

MATHEW RYAN 8: Nothing to do for 30 minutes, then it got quite hectic. Kept it respectable with several saves, including from Sterling before half-time and from David Silva before the hour.

MARTIN MONTOYA 6: Thankless task trying to cope with the electric Sane, then Sterling when he switched. Spaniard did okay in general.

SHANE DUFFY 7: Lots of typically stout defending and blocking of crosses inside his own box. Early threat in the air from a couple of corners.

LEWIS DUNK 7 (below): Not been at his best since returning from ankle trouble but this was more like it. Along with Duffy, kept Aguero largely quiet apart from his goal.

The Argus: GAETAN BONG 7: Began the game particularly well. Helped by March, he dealt with Sterling pretty well in the circumstances, despite the England winger getting on the scoresheet.

DAVY PROPPER 5: Struggled to make any impact. Central part of a midfield who worked hard out of possession as passes were popped around them. Might have done more to halt Aguero's goal.

YVES BISSOUMA 6: Brought the expected energy and drive and will have learnt plenty but needed to be sharper on the rare chances he got to play a through pass.

BERAM KAYAL 6: The most advanced of the central midfield three and launched a notable counter attack by picking off a pass. Lots of graft without the ball.

ANTHONY KNOCKAERT 5: Showed great early intent with a run at two defenders to force a corner. But his execution was not always right and that can cost dear.

JURGEN LOCADIA 6: Given the start as part of a masterplan which worked until City scored. Closed down from the front and looked to get in position for balls in behind which never came.

SOLLY MARCH 6: One of many who had precious little chance with the ball but had some decent moments when he got it and didn't allow Walker much chance going the other way.

Subs

GLENN MURRAY: Sent on with the game gone at 2-0.

ALIREZA JAHANBAKHSH: Showed some nice touches again.

JOSE IZQUIERDO: His season is at last under way.