Manchester City vs Tottenham half-time match report: Sergio Aguero strikes twice but misses easy chance for 32-minute hat-trick

Aguero saw his second penalty of the game saved in a frantic first half at the Etihad Stadium

Sergio Aguero scores from the penalty spot (Getty Images)

Sergio Aguero could and should have had a hat-trick inside 33 minutes after he saw his second penalty of a frantic first-half saved by the feet of Hugo Lloris, to send Manchester City in at the break with a 2-1 lead over Tottenham.

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Aguero had opened the scoring after 13 minutes when he was given the time and space to work back onto his favoured right-foot. He drilled home a shot that flashed past Frank Lampard, who was standing in an offside position, and easily beat Spurs goalkeeper Lloris.

But Spurs immediately replied and after an error from City midfielder Fernando allowed Ryan mason the chance to dispossess the Brazilian, Christian Eriksen was able to break free and utilise a three-on-one to power the ball past goalkeeper Joe Hart.

City were then given the chance to go back into the lead via the penalty spot. Lampard, in the side for Yaya Toure, made a typical run into the box when he brushed Erik Lamela and went down to ground, somewhat easily. Referee Jonathan Moss had no hesitation in awarding the penalty though, and the Argentinian striker calmly slotted the ball in the left corner with Lloris diving the wrong way.

Manchester City players celebrate Sergio Aguero's goal against Spurs (Getty Images)

There was still drama to come though, as City were awarded another penalty in the 32nd minute after David Silva was brought down by a Younes Baoul challenge. Aguero stepped up once more, but this time he sent the ball down the middle and Lloris just managed to save it with his trailing leg.

Aguero had a chance with the rebound, but his acrobatic volley went over the cross bar, and Spurs managed to keep the deficit to just one goal at the break.

Lampard was forced off shortly after he won the penalty with what appeared to be a thigh injury, with Fernandinho replacing the former England midfielder.