West Bromwich Albion twice fought back from behind on the opening night of the 2021-22 EF Championship season in a 2-2 draw with Scott Parker’s Bournemouth.
Valerien Ismael was taking charge of the Baggies for the first time as both new managers shared the spoils in an entertaining game at the Vitality Stadium.
Bournemouth took a 12th minute lead when summer signing Emiliano Marcondes scuffed home from close range, beating David Button in the West Brom goal. The 32-year-old was starting with England international Sam Johnstone only named among the substitutes.
Button later made saves from David Brooks and Dominic Solanke.
The visitors equalised shortly after the half hour mark through Dara O’Shea’s header.
Philip Billing opened his scoring on the season just seven minutes after the break, with a composed finish after Button parried a cross in his direction. The midfielder scored eight league goals for the Cherries last season having previously only scored five in his 81 appearances for Huddersfield Town.
Callum Robinson, who had a first-half goal ruled out, finished off a nice team move to earn West Brom a point midway through the second half.
After the two sides are in EFL Cup action midweek, Bournemouth will go to Nottingham Forest and WBA will host Luton Town in the Championship next Saturday.
