Albion continue their charge to stay amongst the Premier League elite atop the table with a convincing 3-1 victory against AFC Bournemouth, writes Anujit Vijayakumar.

Kaoru Mitoma’s presence was pivotal as his sensational brace guided the home side to victory to make it five wins in six fixtures.

Mitoma started the game on the bench as he was awarded some much-needed rest as promised by Roberto De Zerbi, having played 86 minutes in Albion’s defeat to AEK Athens to kick start Europa League campaign.

The Seagulls went behind early in the game as Dominic Solanke capitalised on an error by goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen to give the Cherries a 1-0 lead. Albion’s resilient nature pulled through as they levelled the scores on the brink of half-time, courtesy of an own goal which occurred following a cross into the 18-yard box by midfielder Billy Gilmour.

The second half painted a contrasting picture as to the first as Albion took the lead early in the second half. Mitoma’s arrival tilted the landscape of the game as the winger’s movement and dribbling caused havoc in the Bournemouth box, scoring merely 16 seconds after coming to give the hosts a 2-1 lead. Mitoma’s dribbling prowess and movement in the box was critical to Albion gaining the lead.

About half an hour later, Mitoma all but affirmed the Seagulls’ victory as he headed in a cross by full back Pervis Estupinan which found the back of the net to give Albion a 3-1 lead.

The Japanese winger was a constant threat down the left-hand side throughout the game as his partnership with Estupinan proved fruitful for Albion.

Mitoma’s explosive start to the 2023-24 season continues as he has now accumulated three goals and assists each in six games.