Mixed Fortunes For Nigerian Stars In England

Nigerian stars were in action in the top two divisions in England, but it was a mixed outcome for the players on show

Semi Ajayi made his 11th league appearance of the season for West Brom, but he ended up on the losing side once again following the Baggies 2-1 loss to Newcastle at St. James Park.

Ajayi was part of the West Brom side that suffered an embarrassing 5-1 loss at home to Crystal Palace last weekend.

Slaven Bilic’s men were hoping to bounce back against the Magpies, but it was Steve Bruce men that took the maximum points.

Miguel Almiron put the home side ahead inside the opening minute, but Darnell Furlong levelled matters for West Brom five minutes after the break.

The game was heading towards a draw until Dwight Gayle popped up in the 82nd minute to head home the winner for Newcastle.

Despite the loss, Ajayi was impressive in the defence for West Brom, winning five duels and making two clearances.

In the English Championship, Super Eagles vice-captain, William Troost-Ekong helped Watford to an impressive away at Birmingham City.

It was Ekong’s 10th league appearance of the season as a Troy Deeney penalty five minutes from time sealed the three points for the Hornets.

In another Championship game, Chuba Akpom was on for 72 minutes as Middlesbrough thrashed Millwall 3-0 at the Riverside Stadium.

A first-half brace from Duncan Watmore sandwiched between a strike from Marcus Tavernier secured a comfortable win for Neil Warnock’s men.