Terry Wills on Albion’s win at Leicester.
Did we need those precious three points from the win at Leicester? You bet, and they were made even more acceptable as the sides also striving to climb away from the bottom three relegation spots conveniently failed to improve their own prospects.
In a game that everyone agreed was poor, a comical own goal was sufficient to leave both team and supporters enjoying the short journey back to the Hawthorns in high spirits, although in saying that if had been an Albion player gifting the toothless Foxes the points it would have been another matter entirely.
Following the disappointing cup defeat at Bournemouth Alan Irvine reverted back to what at present he considers to be his A team, and they did what was necessary. Victory hoisted us into a mid-table position but the situation remains the same – a win and you’re there chasing a top eight spot but a defeat and you’re looking anxiously over your shoulder.
This week sees the first of four very difficult games with a vastly improving Newcastle United and their dedicated, noisy fans visiting the Hawthorns for a televised Greed League match. That’s followed by Chelsea, Arsenal and West Ham United – not a bad trio but for now they can wait.
A second successive victory would be a bonus. Unfortunately, unless Saido Berahino receives support in the goalscoring department it will be far from easy. Overall the team have a solid look. Joleon Lescott and Craig Dawson have formed an impressive defensive partnership and this together with a midfield capable of creating openings, aided by Ben Foster in goal, means that while they won’t seriously challenge the big-spending outfits they should be capable of competing with the rest of the clubs in a similar position.
Prospects? As I said, a win is the ultimate achievement but most importantly, don’t lose.
Come on you Baggies.