The Carpet Baggies

Andy Munro still finds consolation in Blues’ 3-2 home defeat to Albion.

It all seemed set fair when Blues scored through the returning Juke following a brilliant cross from Colin. Even when the Baggies scored an equaliser from a dubious corner, we bossed the midfield with Sunjic and Jude Bellingham outstanding. Albion to be fair looked dangerous on the break but Pedersen did a great job defensively. In addition, Bajrami stood up tall with Harlee Dean and the former showed a remarkable coolness and confidence when on the ball.

In the second period, Blues continued to boss things and eventually the Baggies sent on Charlie Austin for the dangerous but largely ineffectual Matt Phillips.

At the time this seemed a plus for many Bluenoses but be careful what you wish for because Austin scored the equaliser with a sublime touch followed by a shot that gave Conal Truman no chance.

To rub salt in the wounds he then got a trademark header to score the winner although right up to the final whistle Blues had chances with Johnston finger tipping a shot away and then both Bela and Pedersen going close.

In the final analysis it was Austin that made the difference – a deadly finisher who cost a few bob no doubt but within the reach of a club with Premier League relegation booty and there’s the difference.

Yet, there are reasons to be cheerful with a good young side who generally dominated play and Sunjic, Deane and Colin apart, costing relevant buttons. We need to get probably four points from the next two away games and the home tie against Leeds but hopefully that’s achievable despite our defensive injury woes.