A FINE late strike from substitute DaMarcus Beasley gave Manchester City a 1-0 victory at West Ham, who remain in the Premiership drop zone.

It was the American's first strike for City, who sealed back-to-back victories for the first time in 14 months following the St Stephen's Day win at Sheffield United. It means that the Hammers have lost twice in succession in front of their own fans following a bright start to the Alan Curbishley era The first half was a mediocre affair with only Teddy Sheringham presenting a threat but the half ended with neither goalkeeper having had to make a significant save.

Carlos Tevez was introduced for the home side and his mazy runs created problems for the City defence as West Ham began to domiante with Sheringham going close. A rare foray downfield from City saw Richards fire wide, after Vassell had laid the ball back to him on the edge of the area.

City took the lead in the 83rd minute through Beasley, who pushed the ball past two challengers and out-paced them to reach the box and smash the ball past Green.