All City had mustered was a tame Adam Johnson free-kick but Tevez, on his return to the side after compassionate leave in Argentina, equalised with a smash and grab effort on the stroke of half-time that epitomised all the Argentine's tenacious qualities.
Tottenham were also cruising at 2-0 against Portsmouth as Ledley King celebrated his return from injury by heading home a Niko Kranjcar corner in the 29th minute and Defoe netted on the stroke of half-time against his former club, having earlier hit the post.