How Ollie Bostock fared on first league start for West Brom vs Sheffield United
Ollie Bostock was handed his first start in league competition for West Brom in their 1-1 draw against Sheffield United.
Bostock made a huge impression last weekend as he notched the only Baggies goal in a 2-1 loss to Oxford United.
The Hawthorns faithful are very excited by Bostock, and he was named in the starting line-up at Bramall Lane on 7 March.
James Morrison may have to reconsider his stance on the West Brom talent though, as his showing against Chris Wilder’s side was not up to par.
How did Bostock perform in West Brom draw?
Bostock did not have the required impact in the clash and he was replaced by Jed Wallace in the 69th minute.
He recorded two shots and completed the only cross that he attempted against the Blades, per Sofascore.
The 19-year-old had a 33 per cent pass accuracy, with three of his nine attempts working out for Morrison’s side.
Bostock took 29 touches, losing possession 12 times, and he also struggled to carry the ball forward and drive his side on.
He totalled five carries for a total distance of 23.5m.
The Welsh youngster tried to help out defensively, winning the only tackle that he made, making one clearance, and committing one foul.
He won just one of the seven ground duels that he attempted, so he was also underwhelming in that aspect of the game.
Why starting Bostock was still the right call
Morrison starting Bostock is worth the risk, as the youngster has already shown that he is willing to show up for the cause.
He has stepped up to the plate whenever he has been selected so far, and he looks like a real top class prospect.
There is absolutely no harm in giving him game time, especially given the fact that Mikey Johnson is likely to be out for the rest of the campaign.
Bostock may well prove to be the Baggies’ saviour as the campaign comes to a conclusion, he cannot be written off just because he had one poor game.
He was dismal on this occasion, but he has been thrust into a woeful side, so he surely cannot be expected to star constantly.
As long as he can provide moments and come up with the odd assist or goal, that should be enough.
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