Manchester City are the Premier League champions once again, courtesy of West Bromwich Albion’s victory against Manchester United at Old Trafford. The result, naturally, came as a huge shock to many, given that it’s been just over a week since The Red Devils defeated Pep Guardiola’s side to put their promotion celebrations on ice.
The Baggies came into the game knowing full well that they were on the verge of relegation, and as such, they seemed to have a ‘nothing to lose’ mentality. They could still be relegated in their next outing, but at this stage, that kind of thing doesn’t seem to matter. They wanted to frustrate United in their own backyard, and in more ways than one, they succeeded in their goal.
It’s a sign of just how colossal this loss was when you consider that West Brom have only won four league games all season, with their last taking place on January 12th against Brighton & Hove Albion. That’s not to suggest they don’t possess the ability to do so much more, because clearly they do, but United took their eye off the ball in a big way this afternoon – in more ways than one.
Calling the first half dull would be a compliment, as West Brom were able to neutralise any and all forward movements from the home side. Romelu Lukaku had a chance saved by Ben Foster, who played incredibly well, before a half-hearted penalty appeal gave United a source of contention to complain about after the final whistle blew.
The Old Trafford faithful desperately attempted to renew the spirits inside the ground, but nothing seemed to work. Some will argue they’re looking ahead to the FA Cup semi-final against Tottenham Hotspur, but they should still be giving it everything they’ve got, because after all, the Premier League title is at stake.
Less than 20 minutes before full time, the inevitable finally happened as Jay Rodriguez headed the ball in from a Chris Brunt header to silence 85% of the crowd.
With that being said the Baggies fans were well aware that they’re probably still heading down, but for now, they won’t care. Their attentions will turn to a huge game against Liverpool at The Hawthorns next weekend, whereas United will travel down south to take on Bournemouth on Wednesday night.
Match Report
Man United: De Gea (5.5), Valencia (5), Lindelof (5), Smalling (5), Young (5), Herrera (4.5), Pogba (5.5), Matic (5.5), Mata (5.5), Sanchez (5), Lukaku (5.5)
Subs: Martial (5.5), Lingard (4.5), Rashford (4.5)
West Brom: Foster (8), Nyom (7.5), Dawson (7.5), Hegazi (7), Gibbs (6), Phillips (6.5), Livermore (6), Brunt (6), McClean (7), Rodriguez (8), Rondon (6.5)
Subs: Yacob (N/A), Sturridge (N/A), Krychowiak (5.5)
Goals: Rodriguez (73′)
Referee: Paul Tierney
Yellow Cards: Pogba, Nyom
Red Cards: N/A
- Soccer News Like
- Be the first of your friends!
