West Bromwich Albion and Hull City played out an entertaining game at the KCOM Stadium as the visitors ran out 1-0 victors. It was a tight encounter which saw the Baggies leave with all three points thanks to a wonderful goal from Jake Livermore.
Many of the players in a new look ‘purple’ kit impressed and here we take a look at their player ratings:
SAM JOHNSTONE – 8
There wasn’t an awful lot he had to do here but he contributed towards the victory. Made a great save from Irvine at point blank range and three clean sheets in a row on the road now for the number one keeper.
DARNELL FURLONG – 7
With him up against one of the best wingers in the league in Kamil Grosicki, Furlong had less chances to strive forward but this display really showed his defensive capabilities. Kept Grosicki quiet for long spells of the game.
SEMI AJAYI – 8
Running out of superlatives for the centre back. On his 26th birthday he impressed with his overall performance and despite the attacking intent from Hull’s front four he stuck to his job perfectly.
KYLE BARTLEY – 9
Credit has to go to Bartley. Most supporters thought his time was up when Ahmed Hegazi returned from injury but this season he has gone from strength to strength. The centre back won important headers and made vital interceptions and kept Jarrod Bowen mostly quiet which is no mean feat.
CONOR TOWNSEND – 7
Back at one of his own clubs and Townsend performed well. Replacing Nathan Ferguson in the last couple of games who had been magnificent but he hasn’t looked out of place. Kept Josh Bowler largely out of the game.
JAKE LIVERMORE – 9
Didn’t put a foot wrong in the game. He’ll be disappointed to have picked up a yellow card which means he is suspended for the next game but his 25-yard strike simply capped off a wonderful captain’s performance.
ROMAINE SAWYERS – 8
Following his man of the match performance against Stoke City, Sawyers didn’t disappoint here either. His control of the ball and of the midfield was key to Albion but he too will miss the Sheffield Wednesday game after his fifth booking.
MATT PHILLIPS – 7
Helped Furlong in trying to curb the attacking instincts of Hull and combined excellently with the full-back on the left hand side. Also had a shot which Long did well to parry away.
MATHEUS PEREIRA – 7
Not quite as influential as recent weeks but still a very good performance from the dazzling Brazilian. Always moving the ball well but the treatment he is receiving really needs to be looked at. Teams are now aware of his threat but he is being kicked around far too often.
GRADY DIANGANA – 7
Sometimes tried a little too hard and his end product wasn’t quite as good as usual. Still had one or two opportunities and also provided really good protection for Townsend.
HAL ROBSON-KANU – 8
A deserved start following his fine cameo against Stoke City and despite not getting on the scoresheet he led the line expertly and his standing ovation when he was substituted showed how highly the fans rated his display.
SUBS:
FILIP KROVINOVIC – 7
An impressive cameo from the bench for the Croatian. Was involved in plenty of good build up play and moved the ball well as always.
KYLE EDWARDS – 6
Gave the team real energy as the opposition started to tire. Looked bright.
