Middlesbrough 0, West Brom 5: Chris Lepkowski's big match verdict

Sep 21 2009 by Christopher Lepkowski, Birmingham Mail

Albion’s supremacy should not be overlooked. They dominated from the moment they scored the first goal and, after that, the result was never in question. Boro were poor. St Ledger, considered by Albion as a potential signing recently, had a debut he should consign to Room 101.

Nothing went for him, his positioning was appalling and there was no understanding between him or David Wheater who, like last season, is so highly rated yet reserves his bad performances for games against Albion.

Marvin Emnes twice ducked out of 50-50s with Joe Mattock while Caleb Folan, offered to Albion by Hull before Boro took him, was simply dreadful after coming on as a substitute. And Adam Johnson, easily one of the best five players in this division, got no change from Gianni Zuiverloon or Mattock after twice swapping wings.

Albion, for their part, just didn’t allow their opponents to play.

On Albion’s left wing was Thomas. The ex-Arsenal man completed his first 90 minutes for the Baggies and was impressive. He’s not afraid to take on defenders and use his strength, pace and trickery to get past them. In a team that’s so buoyant, he can only be an asset.

Albion were rarely threatened on Saturday. One game doesn’t promote a team but ten unbeaten games – eight in the league – is an impressive return.

The Baggies sent out a declaration of intent with their performance and result. And, let’s face it, can you name two better teams in this division?