Stoke 1-0 West Brom: Late strike from Nick Powell sinks leaders

West Bromwich Albion suffered defeat for the first time in the Sky Bet Championship this season as Stoke City deservedly claimed the bragging rights in this throbbing Midlands derby.

Former Manchester United midfielder Nick Powell scored in the 79th minute just when it looked as if Stoke's dominance wasn't going to be rewarded.

Stoke, who climbed to third place, just a point behind West Brom, struck the woodwork twice, had an effort controversially ruled out and had a penalty saved as they took the game to the league leaders.

Stoke City's Sam Surridge celebrates with his team-mates after beating leaders West Brom

West Brom keeper Sam Johnstone had denied Surridge from the penalty spot during the game

West Brom had a real let-off in the ninth minute as Michael O'Neill's side hit the throttle from the off.

Jacob Brown's run beat Albion's high line for a one-on-one with goalkeeper Sam Johnstone, only to see his sidefooted finish bounce back off the foot of the post.

Joe Allen followed up with a powerful low drive that arrowed inches wide.

West Brom's defence endured a testing spell and Johnstone had to dart off his line to block an angled effort from Josh Tymon, who was the latest to escape the visiting back line.

The visitors had another major let-off in the 40th minute.

Surridge looks on in frustration after missing the opportunity but his side still won the game

Mario Vrancic allowed a throw-in from Ben Wilmot to run across his body, inviting Robinson to make a challenge.

But referee Tim Robinson ruled the Stoke player had committed a foul, which even after multiple replays wasn't clear.

Stoke continued to force the issue into the second half and went desperately close to breaking the deadlock in the 50th minute.

Again Vrancic was the architect, this time his curling free kick hitting the bar and bouncing over as the home side struck the woodwork for the second time.

West Brom's goal was increasingly leading a charmed life and it just seemed to be a matter of time before Stoke scored.

The arrival of Sam Surridge, the substitute, lifted the Potteries outfit further.