West Brom Maintains Unbeaten Run with 1-0 Win over Stoke

West Bromwich Albion ended Stoke City's perfect start to the Championship season with a hard-fought 1-0 victory, thanks to a first-half goal by summer signing Nat Phillips, who capitalized on a goalkeeper error. Despite Stoke's pressure and attempts to equalize, including a notable chance by Million Manhoef and a shot by Divin Mubama that hit the post, West Brom held firm to secure their third win in four league games. The match saw Stoke's manager Mark Robins rallying his team after a recent Carabao Cup defeat, while West Brom’s Ryan Mason served a touchline ban and managed squad changes following the departures of key players Tom Fellows and Darnell Furlong. Mikey Johnston was influential for West Brom, creating multiple threats from the left wing and forcing errors from Stoke's goalkeeper Viktor Johansson. The visitors demonstrated resilience under pressure and tactical discipline, particularly in defense, to maintain their unbeaten run and leapfrog Stoke in the standings. Both teams showed intensity and moments of controversy, such as Stoke's claims for a penalty that were dismissed, but West Brom ultimately deserved the three points for their performance.