Albion on top four-m

Terry Wills on a memorable night for the Albion.

“Fast, fluid, attacking football from Tony Pulis’ West Brom as they thrashed Burnley 4-0 at the Hawthorns last night.”

Not my words, although I couldn’t disagree. No, they came via one of the many media outlets who reported the win that left Baggies fans rubbing their eyes in disbelief. Okay, it came against a side struggling to climb away from a relegation spot, but for all that, they promised to be difficult to break down.

The plea from fans to adopt a more positive attacking policy was answered early. A cracking fourth minute goal from the improving Matt Phillip was followed by James Morison and Darren Fletcher scoring goals to establish a comfortable 3-0 lead and meant the game was as good as won, barring an unlikely Burnley fightback, and Saloman Rondon’s well-deserved effort was, as the saying goes, the icing on the cake.

The overall display was such that there was barely a weakness too be seen. The return of James Morison (Nacer Chadli wasn’t missed) and the prestigious work rate and strength from Rondon adjudged Man of the Match by the TV pundits” was a just reward, although many felt James Morison was worthy of the title. Of late skipper Darren Fletcher has been off form. Here he was back to his best – well done Darren.

To be fair to Burnley they played some decent attractive passing football and did miss a good chance of equalising after the opening goal but this was the Baggies’ night. Now in a lofty ninth position, hopes are high that with games against Hull City, Swansea and Watford to come this improvement can be maintained.

First comes Hull City away. A game based on the Burnley display will make Tony Pulis, his players and fans optimistic of enjoying another successful result. A warning, though = Hull desperate for points and playing at home they’ll consider this a game that if they can’t win then they must not lose.

Forecast? Knowing the Baggies’ ability to turn form on its head I’ll chicken out and say a draw could be on the cards while as usual secretly thinking another three points are coming our way.