Statistical Preview: Hull vs West Brom

Hull will be disappointed they did not come away with more after entertaining Manchester City last weekend.

The hosts had looked the brighter side with plenty of possession and when City captain Kompany was dismissed early in the first half, it looked as though Hull were about to end a miserable run which had seen them lose four and win just one of their last seven top-flight matches at home. Steve Bruce described the fixture as a frustrating afternoon for his side and fans will certainly be frustrated after Meyler’s goal was disallowed and the referee dismissed two late penalty claims.

Tigers’ fans will have been encouraged by their sides performance at the start of the game.  Elmohamady and Jelavic looked menacing in the face of City’s defence and when Kompany received red for outmuscling Jelavic after 10 minutes, it seemed likely that the pair would be rewarded for their efforts. The EA SPORTS Player Performance Index shows that Elmohamady made 41 attacking contributions; equal to that of City’s David Silva.

Livermore was also an inspirational influence for Steve Bruce’s men.  The Englishman radiated creativity, completing 40 passes in the opposition half.  He was also unlucky not score from long range after firing a shot just wide.

Liam Rosenior coped well with Man city’s impressive attacking firepower winning 100% of his tackles. Fellow Englishman Curtis Davies also played an integral role in Hull’s defense; making 25 defensive contributions (tackles won, blocks, interceptions and clearances).

West Bromich Albion will be hoping to capitalise on Hull’s recent form and build on their nail-biting victory against Swansea.  The result moved West Brom to 16th in the Premier League, three points clear of the relegation zone and just one point behind 14th-placed Swansea. Pepe Mel described his players as intelligent as they turned the game around and showed much more attacking intent.

Sessegnon levelled the scoring from outside the Swansea area; curling a powerful low shot into the bottom corner.  The EA SPORTS Player Performance Index shows that the 29 year-old had a shot accuracy of 66.7% and made 25 attacking contributions (shots on target, dribbles, passes in the opposition half and crosses).

Midfielder Graham Dorrans and defender Jonas Olsson look to be the Baggies best hopes of containing Hull City’s attacking threats which worried Manchester City so much last weekend.  The Scotsman won 100% of his tackles last weekend in the midfield whilst the latter led the way in defense; the EA SPORTS Player Performance Index shows that the Swede made 14 defensive contributions (tackles, blocks, interceptions and clearances).