Corradi double helps Man City to 3-1 victory over Fulham

LONDON, Nov 18 (Reuters) Manchester City climbed into mid-table in the Premier League with a resounding 3-1 home victory over Fulham in today's early kickoff.

After just one win in six league matches, City needed the points to stay clear of the danger area and they had them wrapped up before halftime.

Italian Bernardo Corradi put City in front after 12 minutes when Georgios Samaras flicked on a long Nicky Weaver clearance and Corradi struck again after 32 minutes after being supplied by Joey Barton.

Barton kept his cool to make it 3-0 on the stroke of halftime having been played in on goal by Hatem Trabelsi.

Fulham cut the deficit when halftime substitute Collins John scored with a neat lob midway through the half.

It was the first goal City had conceded at home in seven matches this season but was not enough to save Fulham from a first away defeat for five matches since they lost 5-1 at Manchester United on the opening day of the season.

In later action leaders Manchester United are at Sheffield United, champions Chelsea host West Ham United and Arsenal take on Newcastle United.

REUTERS DH BS2051