Five things learned from West Brom's opening day victory over Bournemouth

1 JAY RODRIGUEZ MAY BE FINAL PIECE OF THE JIGSAW

Albion are the best in the league from set-pieces, that is clear, but at times last season they were also devastating on the counter-attack. However, Salomon Rondon lacked the finishing touch needed to round off those moves. Pulis surprised a few by playing Jay Rodriguez up front, but the summer signing did enough in the opening game to suggest he’s got the eye for goal Albion have been searching for. It’s early days, but the last time he was consistently picked, he bagged 17 goals.

2 BUT THOSE SET-PIECES COULD BE MORE DANGEROUS THAN EVER

The overarching theme of the Premier League in the opening weekend was dreadful defending from dead balls, which will be music to the ears of Tony Pulis. Almost half of Albion’s goals last season came from set-plays; no-one scores more from free-kicks and corners. Ahmed Hegazi is another defender willing to throw his huge frame at the ball, and with so many defences struggling to deal with such aerial assaults, it could be another fruitful season for Albion’s big back-line.

3 JAMES MCCLEAN DESERVES A RUN IN THE TEAM

The Irish international was arguably Albion’s most improved player last season, even though he wasn’t always picked regularly. But he was the perfect choice on Saturday because he harassed Bournemouth’s pretty passers, and at times, won possession through sheer will alone. Players likes Nacer Chadli may have more ability, but McClean’s attitude makes him more effective. His place in the team is unquestionably deserved, and proves once again that hard work trumps talent.

4 THE BACK FOUR DOESN’T DESERVE TO BE BROKEN UP

Not only was Ahmed Hegazi man of the match, but Craig Dawson was superb alongside him. Nobody made as many interceptions as Dawson in the Premier League all weekend. Allan Nyom also looked more comfortable in his preferred position of right-back, and the ever reliable Chris Brunt offers an attacking threat from left-back. Bournemouth lacked cutting edge, but it was still an impressive defensive display. If fit, Jonny Evans will play, but there was a nice balance to the back line on Saturday that shouldn’t be ignored.

5 REKEEM HARPER EXCITES – BUT DON’T UNDERESTIMATE SAM FIELD

The 17-year-old debutant is the latest prospect off the conveyor belt and Harper’s late bursting runs got plenty of the home crowd excited about his future. But he came on towards the end of the game, when play was stretched and legs were heavy. Don’t underestimate the difficulty in starting. Field began slowly but he grew into the game, and he’s a different player to Harper, a tidy passer who keeps possession. The hopes is that maybe one day the pair could forge a compatible partnership.