Payback for Pardew as Ashton doubles up

Manchester City 1 West Ham 2

The £7.25 million (€10.5m) striker provided further proof of what a wise investment Hammers boss Alan Pardew made when he lured him from Norwich, following up a powerful first-half opener with a tap-in second.

It took Ashton’s tally to five goals in seven games for the Upton Park outfit and ensured the Hammers had enough of a cushion to survive City’s late assault after Kiki Musampa had volleyed home five minutes from time.