Albion failed to register a shot on target as the Baggies again drew a blank in an 0-0 draw at Sunderland. Although in the process Ben Foster helped Albion pick up an 11th clean sheet of the season. It was certainly a match full of resilience as opposed to entertainment.
TEAM
Two changes were made by Tony Pulis. Finally Jonas Olsson was replaced by James Chester. Evans switched to his favoured centre back position with Chester slotting in at left back.
Sessegnon was also omitted from the squad after going AWOL with Sandro coming into the side. Berahino started on the left hand side of midfield in a 4-5-1 formation. Fletcher was allowed to push forward to support Rondon.
TACTICS
In the first half the teams were fairly evenly matched. Neither side created very many clear cut opportunities apart from a couple of chances for Defoe and Cattermole before the break.
The second half however, was very different. Sunderland piled on the pressure and were unlucky not to take the lead. Kirchhoff had a shot which struck Ben Foster in the face as the home side's domination continued. Albion looked happy to sit back and defend.
Fletcher had a shot which had to be dealt with by Mannone. Borini and Defoe missed more late chances as the hosts were constantly frustrated by the brilliance of Foster. N'Doye did have the ball in the back of the net but the goal was ruled out for offside. Both sides were forced to settle for a point, which was certainly better for Albion than Sunderland.
PERFORMANCE
With Sessegnon not in the squad it was up to Berahino to occupy the wide left position. Both him and Rondon had very quiet games and never really troubled the Sunderland defence. Once again it seemed as though the plan was to defend and hope to nick a set piece goal. It was another game where we looked strong defensively but toothless up front.
Pulis' tactics are beginning to bore even the most optimistic of fans. It seems unlikely that the Baggies faithful will settle for another season of this 'style of football'.
MAN OF THE MATCH
Sandro was certainly the pick of the outfield players. He had his best performance in a Baggies shirt and his effort and work rate couldn't be criticised. The defence was once again solid. But man of the match was without doubt the excellent Ben Foster. He made numerous crucial saves most notably from Defoe and Borini. If it hadn't been for the England international we could have lost the game quite comfortably. A truly brilliant performance.
TALKING POINT
Ben Foster. With the injury to Butland, it is hard to see how he can be ignored by Roy Hodgson for the plane to France. It was a mutual decision for Foster to remain with Albion during the last international break due to his recent knee problem.
But with more performances like this I'm sure Hodgson will have to seriously consider taking Foster to the Euro's. On his day, there are few better keepers in England.
REF WATCH
Didn't have an awful lot to do. Booked Craig Gardner for taking a free kick too early which seemed harsh to say the least. Yacob made his fair share of fouls and was lucky to not get booked. The offside call was also the correct decision made by Roger East.
WHAT'S NEXT?
West Brom are away once again, this time at the Etihad against Manchester City. Unfortunately its most likely going to be the same type of performance. Defensively solid and difficult to break down. With the attacking prowess of Man City, our defence will certainly have to be at its very best if we are to emerge with a good result.
Hopefully we can also show more intent going forward and perhaps muster a shot on target. Here's hoping!
Have your say on Albion's draw here at Baggies Banter.