WBA-MAD Player Ratings: Forest 1 Albion 2

Last updated : 05 August 2019 By Wba-mad Editor

Albion started the 2019/2020 season with an impressive 2-1 win at Nottingham Forest after goals from widemen Kyle Edwards and Matt Phillips. 

After a shakey opening 10 minutes, Albion grew into the game with Romaine Sawyers controlling the game from the base of Albion's midfield. 

Take a look at our marks from Slaven Bilic's first win as Baggies boss. 

Sam Johnstone: Had very little to do after an early onslaught. Will be disappointed at Forest's goal but he recovered from his error and his distribution was good. 6/10

Nathan Ferguson: What a start for the 18-year-old. A smile as long as the Birmingham Road and already a fans' favourite on his full debut for the club. Strong in the tackle, good in the air and was never caught out against some experienced opponents. A brilliant debut. 8/10

Semi Ajiyi: Was somewhat overshadowed by Sawyers and Ferguson but this was a really impressive start from Albion's giant centre half. Big Semi looked impressive and won a number of headers in the second half. Looked comfortable bringing the ball out of defence and into midfield as well. 7/10

Kyle Bartley: Was he at fault for the goal? Possibly. Did he do much else wrong? No. Bartley seems like he'll always be one of those players who draws criticism but he was solid enough when he stuck to the basics at The City Ground. 7/10

Kieran Gibbs: Looked really threatening down Albion's left and linked up well with Edwards before limping off. Only his final ball in the last third let him down at times. 7/10

Jake Livermore: Struggled to get to grips with Forest's midfield early on but once Albion had settled he imposed himself on the game. Was sloppy in position at times but his positioning was much better to cover Albion's defence. 6/10

Romaine Sawyers: He's back with the Baggies with a bang! A really impressive display from Albion's returning midfielder who stroked the ball around like he was playing up Dartmouth Park. Kept the ball when Forest pressed and always looked in control as Albion bossed the game. 9/10 MOTM

Filip Krovinvic: Showed some nice touches and found space well 'between the lines'. Miseed a second half opportunity to set Edwards free but another who looked good on his debut. 7/10

Kyle Edwards: Failed to track his man for Forest's goal but didn't put a foot wrong after that. Brilliant footwork to trick his marker for Albion's first and was unlucky not to double his account on the afternoon. More of the same needed from the youngster. 8/10

Matt Phillips: Was it a cross? Was it a shot? Who cares! Phillips is now one of Albion's most experienced players and he was happy enough to take the ball in tight areas and drive Albion forward. Will be an important player this season - if he can stay fit. 7/10

Kenneth Zahore: The one new boy who didn't hit the ground running. Looked awkward at first and struggled to keep possesion. He looked more comfortable as the game went on but didn't look fully match fit. Subbed after an hour. 6/10

SUBS

Oliver Burke: Came on to boos at his former club and played as the lone striker. Struggled to get involved and was left to chase Forest defenders around as Albion soaked up pressure. Seems like he needs a goal to boost his confidence. 6/10

Conor Townsend: Didn't look out of place at left back and dealt well with some high diaganol balls into Albion's box. His positioning was good used the ball well to release others up the pitch when he got the opportunity. 6/10

Rekeem Harper: Called upon late on to give Albion fresh legs as Forest pushed forward for an equaliser. Solid enough with being spectacular in Albion's midfield. 6/10