Terry Wills talks Albion.
Without question there is an air of despondency surrounding happenings, both on and off the field, at the Hawthorns following yet another, but now expected, disappointing setback at Hull’s KC Stadium.
Baggies fans travelled in optimistic mood, hoping to see a continuation of the second-half display that had produced a well merited, desperately needed victory at Swansea. In addition, they wanted to shower plaudits on Shane Long following his transfer. Few wanted him to leave but how that feeling changed as the incompetent referee Chris Foy pointed to the spot, proving yet again that anything resembling a tackle from an Albion player has to be punished.
Shane was jeered, accused of diving and to make matters worse, despite a tremendous flying save from Ben Foster his parry was nodded home. To compound matters a second goal from guess who sealed the points leaving the travelling faithful pondering what could be done in the last ten games to stave off the real possibility of relegation
Thankfully the clutch of clubs in the same situation obliged by losing. But how long can Pepe Mel rely on that scenario continuing? A major, worsening problem, is the relentless growing number of injuries among his defenders, in addition to Jonas Olsson’s two game ban.
As to possible off the field rumblings, national and local media outlets are reporting that things are from unified. Ben Foster has clearly stated that Long shouldn’t have left the Hawthorns, a report probably not going down at all well with Jeremy Peace and his board.
In his defence the Chairman has, through judicious, careful transactions, been successful in maintaining Albion’s Greed League position. But how much longer can we rely on that continuing?
On to Saturday and the visit of Cardiff City. One of the favourites for the drop, but of late showing commendable fighting spirit. With Mel forced to field a makeshift side, and the Welsh team going
flat out for a win, this could see Albion dropping even more points before moving on to face Norwich City.
Yes, the Canaries are one of the clubs still not clear of possible relegation, and face daunting end of season fixtures. But with six home wins already safely tucked under their belt, unless we show a marked improvement they could make it seven. Hence the importance of the Cardiff game..
But let’s end on a bright note. After spending Sunday moping and reflecting came the perfect antidote. Real Madrid 3 Barcelona 4, a fantastic game and to any fan who didn’t bother to tune in, believe me this was football way beyond anything we see in the English game. If only West Bromwich Albion had Lionel Messi in a blue and white striped shirt.