Semi Ajayi’s deflected effort shoots West Brom level at Man City

Nigeria international defender Semi Ajayi thought he had scored his first-ever Premier League goal, but his deflected effort played its part in dragging West Bromich Albion back on levelled terms against Manchester City as halftime approached at the Etihad Stadium on Tuesday evening.

After an opening period, which saw both teams put each other’s defences under pressure, Man City took control of the match and deservedly took the lead on the half-hour mark.

Raheem Sterling did well to direct a ball squarely in the box with his pass finding Ilkay Guendogan, who made no mistake from a few yards out to edge Pep Guardiola’s side in front.

But despite being massive underdogs against the former champions, West Bromwich Albion didn’t let their heads drop, and their performance was rewarded with the equaliser shortly before the interval.

The hosts failed to decisively deal with a Matthew Phillips free-kick, allowing Semi Ajayi to direct a shot at goal, which beat Ederson after taking a wicked deflection off Ruben Dias.

City boss would have been particularly disappointed to see his side concede against one of the league’s bluntest attacks.

Despite Manchester City’s best efforts in the second half, Semi Ajayi and teammates held on brilliantly to earn a vital point at the home of one of the title favourites