Five goals in the space of two matches. A month ago it would have been inconceivable to have predicted five shots on target. But things have changed in the last two games. Albion were largely resolute in defence and dangerous in attack at the home of league leaders Leicester City.
Team
Pulis made just one enforced change from the impressive victory against Crystal Palace. The injured Chris Brunt was replaced by James Chester at left back. Jonny Evans still wasn't deemed fit enough to return. Gardner and Sessegnon kept their places on the flanks and both contributed superbly to getting a hard fought point against Leicester.
Tactics
Nobody quite expected as good an attacking performance as the one Albion gave against the Foxes. Berahino and Rondon once again linked up well and their partnership seems to be getting better with every game they play together. Chester was once again utilised in an unfamiliar position but he performed admirably against Leicester's tricky widemen. He's another player who seems to be flourishing with an extended run in the team.
Performance
Leicester had the better chances and were the team more likely to win the game once Albion had got the equaliser. But for Albion's sheer hard work and determination, the Baggies were more than worthy of their point. The first goal from Leicester came courtesy of a lucky deflection. For their second it took an exquisite ball from Mahrez to set up King, although the midfielder was given far too much space inside the penalty area.
As for West Brom, the ever reliable Fletcher played a magnificent through ball to Rondon who shrugged off Huth and calmly slotted home to put us in front and stun the home crowd. Our second goal came from a free kick which was expertly curled into the top corner by the rejuvenated Craig Gardner. For the final twenty minutes Leicester did somewhat lay siege to our goal but a combination of last ditch defending and the reflexes of Ben Foster kept the scores level.
Man of the Match
Rondon got the goal his efforts have most certainly warranted. Fletcher's workrate in the middle of the park was outstanding. But for me it had to be Craig Gardner. For the past two games he has been different class. Maurading forward with purpose, scoring twice and he could easily have had one or two others against Leicester had it been for a little more accuracy. Gardner gets a lot of criticism from certain sections of fans, sometimes rightly so. But his performances in the last two matches have been nothing short of outstanding.
Talking Point
If performances in the last two games continue will anti-Pulis fans begin to change their mind about the man at the helm? Its no secret that Tony Pulis has his critics for his 'style of play' and 'defensive set up'. But our attacking impetus has been much better certainly in the first half against Palace. Should this be maintained, fan's attitudes towards Pulis could drastically improve.
Ref Watch
Mark Clattenburg didn't have many big decisions to make. Sessegnon was booked for dissent after a challenge from Fuchs that could have seriously injured him.
What Next?
Albion play host to Manchester United on Sunday at 4pm live on Sky Sports. If the same attacking intent is shown I believe we could cause their makeshift defence all sorts of problems. Having Jonny Evans back from injury would certainly help in keeping star youngster Marcus Rashford quiet, especially with Olsson continuing to struggle.
Have your say on Albion's draw here at Baggies Banter.