Noah Rosenstein
Updated on: October 13, 2024 2:41 am GMT
West Bromwich Albion has taken the Championship by storm, starting the 2024/25 season with an impressive record that has fans buzzing. With four wins and just a single draw from their first five matches, they currently sit atop the league table, showcasing a blend of resilience and attacking flair that has them positioned as serious contenders for promotion.
Unbeaten Start
The Baggies kicked off their season with a 3-0 victory against Portsmouth last Sunday, demonstrating their dominance. This victory underscores a broader trend: West Brom has been unbeaten in their first five games, amassing a total of 13 points. Their only dropped points came in a scoreless stalemate against Leeds United.
Key highlights of their performances include:
- Overall Record: 4 wins, 1 draw, 0 losses
- Goals Scored: 9
- Goals Conceded: 2
Coach Carlos Corberan has adeptly utilized the resources available to him, leading to this strong start for the team. Despite going through a significant restructuring that saw the departure of several key players, the team’s resilience has shone through.
Star Players Leading the Charge
A major factor contributing to West Brom’s success has been standout performances from key players. Striker Josh Maja has become the league’s leading goalscorer with five goals, making him not just a vital cog in the team’s attack but also one of the best in the league overall. Only Manchester City’s Erling Haaland has outscored him among the top four divisions of English football.
Alongside Maja, winger Tom Fellows has also made a significant impact, registering four assists. The duo’s ability to create and convert chances has set a strong foundation for the Baggies.
“We know we have the talent; it’s about making it work as a unit,” said Maja after the victory against Portsmouth. “The team trusts each other, and that’s crucial for our success.”
The combination of these two players’ performances, coupled with a solid supporting cast, means that West Brom is positioned to maintain their early momentum.
Adaptation Under Pressure
The Baggies have also navigated considerable challenges since last season. Having missed out on promotion after a play-off semi-final defeat, the club faced not just coaching transitions but also significant financial adjustments, particularly with the end of their parachute payments from the Premier League.
Key departures, including Conor Townsend and Okay Yokuslu, left substantial gaps. Yet, the introduction of new talent such as Mikey Johnston, who was brought in permanently after a loan spell, has helped fill those shoes. Johnston’s adaptability and drive on the left flank have quickly made him a fan favorite.
Corberan’s coaching style emphasizes a high tempo and an energetic press. Although his teams may not play the fanciest football, they are certainly effective.
Consistency Is Key
One aspect that has worked in the Baggies’ favor is their consistency regarding player selection. Remarkably, West Brom is the only team in the top four tiers of English football that has started the same eleven players in every match so far this season. This stability has fostered team chemistry and tactical familiarity, enabling players to perform at their best week after week.
“When you have a solid starting lineup, it builds confidence and understanding on the pitch,” said Johnston. “We know our roles and how to support each other, which makes a big difference.”
With pivotal bench players like Jed Wallace contributing effectively, it allows West Brom to maintain intensity late in matches. Wallace’s experience provides game management that is crucial in securing leads or turning matches in their favor.
Looking Ahead
West Brom’s next challenge comes against Plymouth Argyle, who recently secured their first win of the season against Sunderland. As the teams prepare to clash, all eyes will be on the Baggies to see if they can extend their unbeaten run.
Corberan and his squad are aware that the journey through the Championship is long, with 46 matches spanning nearly eight months. The Baggies will inevitably face their share of highs and lows as the season progresses.
Teams like Sheffield United and Blackburn Rovers remain in hot pursuit, both of whom are yet to lose this season. Nonetheless, West Brom’s current form positions them favorably in the race for promotion.
The Goals Ahead
As the season unfolds, West Brom fans have reason to be optimistic. If the team can maintain its current form and keep their core players healthy, they may just be able to challenge for promotion at the end of the season.
The excitement around the club is palpable as supporters look forward to seeing how their team will navigate the challenges ahead.
West Bromwich Albion has had an amazing start to the Championship season, catching everyone’s attention and making people talk about what they can achieve. With a skilled team, strong leadership, and a strong desire to win, the Baggies look ready for an exciting season ahead. The big question is: can they keep up this great energy and achieve their goal of moving up to a higher league? Fans and experts are all excited to see what happens next!
