Albion’s return to the top flight lasted only a season as the club’s relegation was confirmed after a 3-1 defeat at Arsenal. The Baggies started brightly but conceded two quick fire goals to go into half time two-nil down. Matheus Pereira’s weaving run pulled a goal back for Albion, but a late Arsenal third put the nail in Albion’s coffin.
Here’s how we rated the players:
Sam Johnstone – 7
Conceded three goals – and will be unhappy about his positioning for the third – but didn’t have that much to do. Little chance with either of Arsenal’s well taken goals.
Darnell Furlong – 5
Was given little protection by Robinson, but was targeted on numerous times by Arsenal and struggled to defend his flank. Missed a glorious chance to equalise in the second half with a header.
Semi Ajayi – 5
Played Albion in trouble a few times with wayward passing and had to rely on his pace to cover for others. Has looked short of confidence in recent weeks.
Kyle Bartley – 5
Gave away a silly free kick for Arsenal’s third on the edge of Albion’s area. Another who didn’t look comfortable trying to protect Albion’s goal.
Conor Townsend – 7
Allowed Pepe one chance – which he took – but was excellence in defence and going forward. One of only a few plus points this season for Albion.
Matt Phillips – 6
Looked more comfortable in the second half when moved back to a more familiar position out wide. Sent in some excellent crosses after the break.
Conor Gallagher – 5
His early season form has really trailed off and looks like he could do with a break. Again, plenty of energy but little end product.
Okay Yokuslu – 6
Struggled in the first half and failed to pick up Smith-Rowe for the first. But improved after the break and was back to his ball-winning best.
Callum Robinson – 4
Simply couldn’t get into the game and failed to offer Furlong any sort of protection in the first half. Was no surprise to see him subbed.
Matheus Pereira – 8
At times it felt like it was Pereira vs Arsenal such was his influence. Was a whisker away from opening the scoring in the first half and then scored a sublime solo effort in the second half.
Mbaye Diagne – 4
Another who had zero impact on the game. His worst game in an Albion shirt when the Baggies needed a big performance.
SUBS
Hal Robson-Kanu – 5
Slightly better than Diagne but failed to offer any sort of goalscoring threat.
Grady Diangana – 5
A welcome return in an Albion shirt. Was better defensively than Robinson but couldn’t find a spark going forward.