Terry Wills on internationals and events a bit closer to the Hawthorns.
No Albion game last week but for Baggies fans satisfaction that Chris Brunt, Gareth McCauley, and James McClean all scored vital goals in helping their countries take a step closer to the next World Cup finals. No players in the England squad (wonder why?) and while watching and enjoying the comfortable (on paper) victory against Scotland, it only reinforced my view that on the international front we are closer to the back than the front runners.
But enough of that for now. Greed League action at the Hawthorns resumes on Monday with Burnley, one of the relegation favourites, hoping to continue an impressive run of results including wins against some of the top teams. They may not have played particularly well but with a dogged defence and a determination not too be beaten it’s achieved the most important factor – not to lose a game and possibly snatch a winner against the odds. Sounds familiar!
With the game being televised and the quality of both sides being questioned Albion have reduced ticket prices so in theory that might encourage current stay-away fans to give Tony Pulis’ team a chance to prove that the encouraging win at Leicester wasn’t a one off.
Whatever the attendance the current lack of atmosphere needs readdressing. Sitting or standing in silence hardly encourages the team and with Burnley unlikely to bring many fans it will be up to Baggies supporters to prove the point. Our home record can only be described as mediocre with wins being few and very far between. Three points – joy. One point – gloom. No points doesn’t bear thinking about.
Prospects? Providing the all-round display at Leicester can be maintained then along with most fans I’ll be disappointed if we fail to win. As for the team selection, will James Morrison retain his place in the side now Nacer Chadli is fit? I think he’ll be on the bench but then nothing is certain when discussing Tony Pulis’ sometimes controversial selections.
Back to the beginning via our three international goal scorers. Well done lads, now let’s see at least one of you net for the Baggies in a much-desired victory. You know it makes sense!
