Half-Time Report: Saido Berahino goal gives West Bromwich Albion lead over Aston Villa

Striker Saido Berahino has given West Bromwich Albion a 1-0 half-time lead in their derby fixture at Aston Villa this afternoon.

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The visitors almost made a perfect start to the match, as Villa goalkeeper Brad Guzan was forced to make a strong reaction save to keep out a Salomon Rondon header from close range.

Baggies defender Jonny Evans headed over the bar from a corner soon after, before Craig Dawson found Berahino with a right-wing cross, but the striker's tame effort was comfortable for Guzan.

Villa's first chance of the match fell to Carles Gil, who looked certain to score from 12 yards, but Claudio Yacob produced a block to save West Brom.

The visitors took the lead on 39 minutes through Berahino, who pounced on a deflected James Morrison shot to finish past Guzan.