Haaland Fires as Manchester City Triumph to Climb Top.

Erling Haaland found the net on two occasions to fire the reigning champions beat beleaguered West Ham United for a fifth consecutive top-flight triumph.

This result sent them top of the table, a single point ahead of their title rivals, a side that have a chance to retake top spot in their evening fixture.

West Ham, under Nuno Espirito Santo, were desperate for a strong opening however found themselves behind within the opening five when Haaland tucked home at the second time of asking.

West Ham's defense were cut open all too easily and Haaland somehow missed a close-range header shortly after scoring.

Tijjani Reijnders doubled the lead shortly before the break, taking Haaland's pass before driving forward and hammering a shot into the top corner.

After the interval, the London side tried to claw something back however their forward could only find the side netting and dragged another shot wide.

The striker's brace then ensured a joyless Christmas for the Hammers, as they remain stuck inside the bottom three.

Manchester City Analysis: Haaland and Team-Mates Looking Imperious

It marked City's seventh straight win in every competition and the team are starting to put together the kind of run that often leads to trophies.

Haaland's early goal and second-half finish extended an remarkable campaign where he has notched 19 in the Premier League.

Once Reijnders thumped home the second goal, the end result was never in doubt as City extended their impressive unbeaten run against sides in the drop zone.

The goalkeeper saved from two City players late on, yet City's comfortable win means they remain unbeaten against West Ham in their past 20 league games.

Hammers' Troubles: Festive Struggles

For the West Ham fans, any hope of a shock triumph was extinguished almost immediately of kick-off.

The team have failed to see a new managerial bounce, with only two victories and now without a victory in their past six league fixtures.

This leaves them 18th in the table, three points from safety, with the gap could grow as other teams have games in hand.

Other than a couple of opportunities for Jarrod Bowen and a set-piece, they offered little threat for the City keeper.

In the past, West Ham have avoided the drop when outside the bottom place at Christmas, providing a glimmer of hope for the current campaign.

What's Next?

Pep Guardiola's men: The side enjoy a week off before returning to action with a trip to Nottingham Forest.

West Ham United: They host Fulham in London on the same day.