Match Report : 28/08/2016

ALBION were held to a goalless Sunday stalemate by Middlesbrough in their Premier League encounter at The Hawthorns.

Craig Dawson came closest on an afternoon of largely half-chances, his second-half header from Matt Phillips' corner flying narrowly wide of a post, as neither side managed to break the deadlock in humid conditions.

Academy graduate Sam Field, 18, was the shining light of the encounter as he showed confident composure and a desire to get on the ball in what was his first Premier League start.

Albion, who now have four points from their opening three matches, made a strong start to proceedings - James McClean, twice, and Darren Fletcher enjoying half-chances in the opening quarter.

Gareth McAuley was called upon to make two crucial interceptions as Boro grew into the game, yet it was the Baggies who again went close just before the break, Salomon Rondon just failing to connect with Phillips' corner.

Dawson narrowly headed wide Phillips' set-piece just after the hour mark before Tony Pulis turned to substitute Jonathan Leko, who duly sustained an injury within minutes and was himself replaced by Saido Berahino.

Stewart Downing flashed an effort wide the final 10 minutes before Cristhian Stuani fired at Ben Foster as both sides were forced to settle for a share of the spoils.