The Championship saw the return of a packed Vitality Stadium, with fans returning to the stands at full capacity for the first time since the pandemic had begun. After poor seasons in the Premier League and Championship for West Brom and Bournemouth respectively last season, both sides witnessed changes in the dugout, with relegated West Brom appointing former Barnsley boss Ismael, and Bournemouth appointing long term managerial target Scott Parker of Fulham.
It was clear that Ismael had instantly implemented his style into the West Brom sides with the teams high press but also the teams physicality shining through. However, it was Bournemouth who took the lead as their relentless counter attack left youngster Jaydon Anthony with space to tee up new signing Emiliano Marcondes. This left the Baggies chasing the game, and they did chase the game as Townsend long throw was cleared back into his path as he found O’shea’s head at the second attempt who made no mistake in equalising for the away side. The Baggies should’ve turned it around as Callum Robinson bundle the ball home from a corner, only for there to be an adjudged foul on Mark Travers in the Bournemouth net.
In the second half, Bournemouth soon found themselves ahead again as youngsters Anthony and Zemura linked up down the left side and Zemura’s cross was parried into the path of Phil Billing, who showed no signs of his form from last season slowing as he restored the Cherries lead. But the unrelenting game so far just became more and more thrilling; as minutes after entering the fray, Matt Phillips played an important part in creating Robinson’s well worked goal. Brooks’ late attempt tested veteran keeper Button who was well aware of the danger and tipped the ball behind. The physical and feisty affair then petered out with both sides deserving the share of the points.
A new look for West Brom:
Ismael has clearly implanted his style of play into his West Brom sides with Townsend making good use of the long throws and set pieces looking a test for the opposition. Next for West Brom they host Luton at the Hawthorns as Ismael expresses the need to solidify the Hawthorns as a fortress.
Bournemouth’s youth shines:
Youthful trio Kilkenny, Zemura and Anthony certainly left their mark as they impressed and relieved Bournemouth’s injury issues; Man Of The Match Anthony playing an influential part in both goals and Zemura creating the second goal while also marshalling Diangana, and Kilkenny a rock in midfield stopping attacks and not afraid of imposing himself on the opposition. Next up for the Cherries, they face a visit to Nottingham Forest as they seek their first three points of the season.
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