Manchester United 1-0 West Brom: Baggies Stun United To Hand Premier League Title To Manchester City
Manchester United staged an incredible second-half comeback against Manchester City last week at the Etihad and delayed the Cityzens’ Premier League title triumph by at least one week. The Red Devils had the easiest of fixtures this afternoon when they hosted bottom-placed West Bromwich Albion at Old Trafford and were supposed to register a thumping win to further ensure their runners-up spot.
Premier League, however, never fails to disappoint its worldwide fanbase and the game proved to be one such instance where the Baggies performed sensationally and scripted a remarkable victory as Jay Rodriguez’s second-half header stunned the home crowd.
The win allows West Brom to enjoy Premier League football for some more time before getting relegated but United’s defeat now officially confirms the Cityzens league title triumph with five games remaining.
West Brom Player Ratings
Ben Foster (8)
Was spot on between the sticks as the veteran Englishman denied Romelu Lukaku and Alexis Sanchez in quick succession in the first-half before saving Lukaku’s effort in the second half to ensure a clean sheet and three points for the Baggies.
Allan Nyom (7)
Was meant to be troubled by Alexis Sanchez and Anthony Martial later on but the fullback performed his task with distinction and ensured a clean sheet.
Craig Dawson (8)
A towering display from the centre-back who did well to contain the likes of Lukaku, Sanchez, Lingard and Martial. Looked menacing during set-pieces.
Ahmed Hegazy (8)
The Egyptian delivered a strong defensive display and dealt well with Lukaku’s physicality inside the box.
Kieran Gibbs (7.5)
The ex-Arsenal fullback used his experience down the left of the Baggies ‘back-4’ and came up with a disciplined display against the Red Devils at Old Trafford.
Matthew Phillips (6.5)
Did not have many touches down the right flank due to the lack of attacking intent from the visitors. However, he had a couple of decent runs and tried to link up with Rodriguez and Rondon up front with his swift movement and passes. Was taken off for Krychowiak late in the game, minutes after Rodriguez’s solitary goal.
Jake Livermore (8)
Forced David De Gea into a smart stop in the first half. Was composed in the midfield and did well to calm things down despite the opponents’ relentless pressure.
Chris Brunt (7.5)
Used his experience to win back possession. Combated well in the middle of the park and was replaced by Claudio Yacob in the closing seconds.
James McClean (7.5)
Made some powerful runs down the left and caused troubles to the United defence with his pace and power.
Salomon Rondon (6)
Was not much effective high up the pitch and got dispossessed time and again. Was replaced by Daniel Sturridge late in the game.
Jay Rodriguez (8.5)
Headed home the only goal of the game as he picked up Nemanja Matic’s clearance and earned his side a sensational victory.
Subs
Grzegorz Krychowiak (7)
Came on in place of Phillips. Protected the lead and ensured a remarkable victory.
Daniel Sturridge (N/A)
Returned from his injury and was a late introduction in place of Rondon.
Claudio Yacob (N/A)
Was introduced for the final few seconds of the game.