The Tesco Carrier Bags

24 November 2012
Last updated at 16:57 GMT


Wigan Athletic were able to take the lead in a game against West Brom but could not stop the away side taking away a 2-1 lead with Charlie Austin on song.

West Brom were only a patch of their normal selves In the first half, looking strong with the ball at their feet but creating very little in the final third to prove why it is they are up near the top of the table.

It was Wigan who took the lead, Gary Caldwell having scoring his first of the season and the easiest as he just waltzed through the gaps in the West Brom defence from the corner and headed home with style.

The home fans were well and truly with their team, perhaps the loudest that the DW Stadium has been all season almost trying to will the ball into the net for Wigan.

They came close to doubling the lead as West Brom stood and watched as Gomez was given the freedom of the midfield to fire in a shot from long range, enough to sting the palms of Gordon in the goal.

West Brom showed a glimmer of why they are at the top towards the end of the first half as a neat passing move saw the ball end up with Shane Long, who never really looked balanced as he struck, this time the ball ending well wide of the goal.

The half time team talks could not have been more different, Martinez would have been praising his wonderful Wigan side for fantastic play and then on the contrast it would be Robinson telling his side to pick up their game.

As it was the away team seemed to have taken on board what had been said to them as they started to pass the ball around with more freedom, in a bit to slow down the Wigan attack.

One 66 minutes the sides were level in almost comical fashion. Caldwell looked to be guiding the ball back to Al-Habsi but the never say die attitude of Austin saw him nip between the two and tap into an empty net.

Wigan looked on edge after that error and West Brom went in search of costing them more than that and just 4 minutes later a neat passing move from the away team saw the ball eventually end up at the feet of Austin following a terrific through ball from Brunt.

The young Englishman made to mistake, striking the ball home hard and low to the keepers right nestling the ball in the side of the net with precision accuracy.

West Brom held out to claim the three points and could look back on this game as a very important one should they keep up their good form near the top of the table.



Roberto Martinez Said: 'We have most definitely thrown it away today. In the end their in form striker has ended our chances and that all in all is pretty sad for us.'

'We have taken the lead early and held it for a long time but to throw it away is just not acceptable. I know that they are really going well at the moment but we had a chance today to catch them when they were not playing their best.'

'Apart from two lapses in concentration though, we have matched them and that part is of course pleasing to see.'

Karl Robinson Said: 'Well the turn around was a great thing to watch from the sidelines, two quick goals seemed to stun them a little and from that point we never looked like losing the game.'

'I would suggest that perhaps we were a little lucky today, especially with Wigan taking the lead and in truth they were looking more than comfortable.'

'Charlie has popped up though as he always does and has given us a couple of goals when we needed them most.'

'Sometimes in football you have to dig deep and make it count to get a win and that is exactly what we did today.'

Wigan Athletic Line Up: Al-Habsi, Caldwell, Ramis (Sub Boyce 70 mins), Figueroa, Stam, Perch (Sub Boselli 66 mins), Beausejour, McCarthy (Sub McAurthur 70 mins), Watson, Gomez, Kone

Unused Substitutes: Pollitt, Maloney, Alcaraz, Jones

West Brom Line Up: Gordon, Blind, Olsson, Bennett, Popov , Dorrans, Brunt, Mulumbu (Sub Yacob 69 mins), Gera, Austin, Long

Unused Substitutes: Daniels, McAuley, Ridgewell, Thomas, McClean, Lukaku

Poor O'neil! rate him greatly as a manager just doesn't seem to work out for him on FM! Great update with the mclean interview on his departure! May not of been at your best against WIgan but another good win

May I just suggest that at the bottom of your match reports under the teams and unused subs you write the goal scorers and minute?

other than that this is continuously fantastic pal! One of my favorite proper story based threads

Can do with the scorer and the time mate, no problems there! Will add the scorers times after the updates I have already done so won't appear for a little while yet.

26 November 2012
Last updated at 16:17 GMT


Former Liverpool and Aston Villa manager Gerard Houllier has been given the managerial job at Sunderland and has been tasked with getting them out of the relegation mess they currently find themselves in.

Houllier has been out of work since July 2011 and will look to try and raise the game of a Sunderland side currently sitting bottom of the league.

'It is a tough task but one that I am looking forward to. I hope that I can make an instant impact at that the fans can soon see us turn it around.'

'I have already met with the players, they seem like a good bunch to work with and I have a month till January so have a chance to assess what I need to push the team on.'

'I love managing in England, it is the best place to be and being in the best league in the world also helps. All I want now is to keep Sunderland in this league.'

Houllier will take charge of his first game this weekend as he hosts former employers Aston Villa at The Stadium Of Light.

Published
12.02 28th November 2012

Baggies hotshot, Charlie Austin, took the time out of his busy schedule to have a chat with Albion TV.

The striker who joined from Burnley in the summer spoke of his delight and pride as he took his tally up to 11 League goals and 14 in all competitions following his brace against Wigan.

Though the striker is showing good form at the moment, he is not getting carried away. 'Everything that I touch is turning to gold at the moment and I hope that continues for some time to come.'

'As long as I keep getting in good positions and continue to get fantastic service from the lads then I am sure I will score plenty more goals but I am not getting carried away just yet.'

There has also been talk of a possible England call up for the 23 year old though he just wants to concentrate on playing his football.

'I know that the England boss is coming to watch our game Friday night against Newcastle and all I want to do is the right things again.'

'If I keep working hard and showing what I can do then hopefully I can get a call up, though we must remember I am new to this level and a call up will only come with continued form.'

West Brom host Newcastle on Friday evening, as their involvement in the Capital One Cup has forced the game to move a day back.

30 November 2012
Last updated at 21:55 GMT


Charlie Austin scored a first half hat-rick doing no harm to the chances of an England call up as his West Brom side beat Newcastle 3-1.

West Brom have shown in recent times that they are not here to just make up the numbers as they fought hard against Newcastle to take top spot in the Premier League.

It didn't take long for the scoring to be opened, West Brom's star man Austin, on hand to slot home after just 2 minutes had been played. He used pace and trickery and was able to get past Williamson with ease, before slotting home past Harper in the Newcastle net.

Newcastle though were not going to lie down and allow this to happen, Ranger coming close from just inside the area, only a fantastic diving save keeping the ball from going into the back of the net on the 20 minute mark,

Moments later the away side were level. Great play in the middle of the park from Cabaye was able to release Obertan who was able to stretch his legs beating the West Brom defenders for pace and casually slotted home the equaliser.

The Baggies though were not going to accept that. And it took just 3 minutes after that goal was scored from them to retake the lead once more.

It was Austin again, this time from a superb Dorrans cross who was able to volley home the ball and send the West Brom fans into raptures in the stands knowing that this result would leave them top of the league.

Newcastle almost scored from a corner, Coloccini getting up the highest in the West Brom penalty area, though the tame header comfortably found the gloves of Gordon.

It was from this West Brom got the third, as a quick throw out to Gera was able to set him free as he curled a delightful ball into the path of Austin who was able to lob the ball over the top of Harper and then into the net.

Austin was quick to run away and celebrate lifting up three fingers to signify his hat-rick. The score remained this way for the rest of the game, though this wasn't for the want of trying.

Charlie Austin came close to his fourth of the game as he shot from a tight angle only to see the ball come back off the post. Newcastle too could have had one but Obertan could only shoot directly at the keeper in a one on one situation.

West Brom hung on to claim a priceless win and take them top of the league, at least until the games have been played tomorrow that is.



Karl Robinson Said: 'We are all so delighted for Charlie, he has been nothing short of superb in the last few games and today culminating in a hat-rick.'

'We are just seemingly travelling a long in a bubble at the moment, we have gone top till games are played tomorrow and this bubble just won't burst.'

'Everybody is looking forward to travelling to Anfield to take on Liverpool, who lets not forget are the holders of the Capital One Cup, so it will be a tough one but a challenge we will relish.

Alan Pardew Said: 'West Brom have outclassed us today. We didn't deserve anything from the game at all and to be honest it would have been a steal had we done so.'

'You have to take the rough with the smooth and at the moment, everything is rough. He lost Ameobi and Cisse in the last game and lose Ranger today to injury too.'

'Things are not going our way but that doesn't mean anything the team that I put out should be able to challenge and we haven't been able to do that.'

West Brom Line Up: Gordon, Blind, Olsson (Sub McAuley 78 mins), Bennett, Popov , Dorrans, Brunt (Sub Yacob 35 mins), Mulumbu, Gera (Sub Thomas 56 mins), Austin, Long

Unused Substitutes: Daniels, Ridgewell, McLean, Lukaku

Newcastle United Line Up: Harper, Simpson (Sub Taylor 67 mins), Coloccini, Williamson, Tierney, Ben Arfa (Sub Gosling 72 mins), Cabaye, Tiote, Taylor, Ranger (Sub Xisco 50 mins), Obertan

Unused Substitutes: Krul, Campbell, Streete, Anita

1 December 2012
Last updated at 11:10 GMT


West Brom captain, Chris Brunt, will be out for up to three weeks having picked up a groin strain in the match against Newcastle.

Though the Baggies manager, Robinson, feels that this is a much better outcome than first feared. 'He went for scans for a tear and they came back negative.'

'The injury seems like a long time but it could have been worse and Chris is happy that it is three weeks rather than three months.'

'It is a shame for him and for us though, he has been playing so well of late and to lose your captain is never easy. We will pick up and get on without him though, the players are professional enough to do so.'

This will be sure to leave a tough choice for the West Brom manager who will choose between Yacob and Thorne for the starting place against Liverpool in the Capital One Cup, a decision he is keeping quiet on.

This is the league after the weekend games I spoke of. I am delighted right now, I hope I can hold it together!

2 December 2012
Last updated at 15:06 GMT


Sunderland will have to travel to West Brom in the FA Cup, the place that saw them fall to a 4-0 defeat earlier in the season.

West Brom are delighted to have a home draw and manager Robinson said it gave them a clear advantage to move forward into the next round. 'A home tie always will give you an advantage.'

'Though it doesn't make it a foregone conclusion that you will win the game, cup football has a habit of throwing up surprises.'

New Sunderland boss Houllier has said that he would have preferred a different outcome to the draw this afternoon. 'We would have loved to have been at home, though if you go away you don't want to be visiting a team that are full of confidence.'

'We will go there and do out best though there is a lot of football to be played in the month of December so we will not look to the tie just yet.'

3 December 2012
Last updated at 21:55 GMT


Liverpool and West Brom play out a thriller as the two sides battled hard to get the win, the home side coming out on top in a 3-2 victory.

This was perhaps the first time in a long time that West Brom will be able to say that they did not deserve to win the match, though sheer grit and dogged determination was enough to hold Liverpool at bay and worry them.

Steven Gerrard was running the show in the midfield, causing all sorts of problems for West Brom who looked unable to cope with him passing the ball around with ease and precision.

Though with all that being said on the 17th minute of the game Shane Long was able to open the scoring and send the travelling Baggies into raptures. He struck home well as he broke free from the Liverpool back line beating Reina to his left.

Liverpool continued to play their normal game, not flustered by the game going against them ulike many side that West Brom have faced this season. Perhaps their own feeling of wanting to hold the game cost them as they sat back and invited pressure upon themselves.

That was to prove costly as Gerrard fired the ball home low and hard to the bottom corner from around 25 yards out. Gerrard immediately running over to the corner flag to celebrate with the fans.

Charlie Austin was not having the best of games up front for West Brom, he could have given them the lead back just before half time but fluffed his lines as he scuffed the ball well wide.

Liverpool introduced Suarez and Borini at half time and that was to prove a master stroke by Rodgers who saw an instant impact from the duo.

First Suarez, who just 5 minutes after the restart was able to drive the ball past Gordon after a delightful through ball from Henderson offered him a chance that he really was not able to miss.

Borini then got in on the act too as just a couple of minutes later it was 3-1, Borini the beneficiary of some sloppy West Brom defending unable to clear their lines giving the striker the easiest chance that he will probably ever have to tap in from close range.

Suarez could have made it four moments before Shane Long scored his second to give the away side some hope, getting his head to the ball following a wonderful cross from the right from Dorrans who was perhaps the best Baggies player on the pitch.

The game carried on to be a stalemate as the two sides cancelled each other out in the middle of the park though one last opportunity would come.

Lukaku who came on with just 15 minutes to go saw his effort hit the bar as he looked to take the game into extra time. All the forward could do was hold his head as his powerful effort thundered away off the bar for a goal kick.



Brendan Rodgers Said: 'Naturally we are pleased to progress. It wasn't really till after half time that we started to play and when we did West Brom had no answer to us really.'

'Perhaps the Suarez goal can be one for debate, probably he was offside but we got the decision and in the defence of their manager, he just got on with the game.'

'We are not miles away from getting to the top four in the league and that is where our priority lies, though a good cup run is a welcome distraction.'

Karl Robinson Said: 'The players are a little gutted to go out like that but we gave it our best and it wasn't quite good enough today.'

'I am disappointed to go out of the cup but not completely devastated. Anfield is a difficult place to come at the best of times so to even come this close is great for us.'

'I am keen to move on and just get on with the football now. We have a lot of games to play in December some key in the mix up of the league so hopefully we can do some great things this month.'

Liverpool Line Up: Reina, McLaughlin, Coates (Sub Skrtel 66 mins), Agger, Rat, Lucas, Gerrard, Henderson, Cole, Sterling (Sub Borini 45 mins), Pacheco (Sub Suarez 45 mins)

Unused Substitutes: Doni, Ibe, Downing, Assaidi

West Brom Line Up: Gordon, Blind, Olsson, Bennett, Popov (Sub Ridgewell 45 mins), Dorrans, Yacob (Sub Thorne 54 mins), Mulumbu, Gera, Austin (Sub Lukaku 75 mins), Long

Unused Substitutes: Daniel, McAuley, Thomas, McLean

Astonishing to see you sitting top of the league mate! Easy FA Cup tie for you especially with it being at home Unlucky against Liverpool though gave it a good run in the cup which will help you financially!

It is all to easy I keep think to myself, the crash has to come at some point.

Had to stop for the night my arms are absolutely dead from all the writing today haha!

Published
16.24 5th December 2012

Karl Robinson spoke to Albion TV as he reflected on the sides loss to Liverpool and how they look to make amends, playing the other side from Merseyside at home on Saturday.

'We were gutted at going out, the coach journey home was not an enjoyable one. It was the first time that we have lost for a long time so the players were naturally disappointed to lose it.'

'It is my job to get them right up for it again, and so far in training the last couple of days they have been excellent and really working hard to make up for the loss on Monday.'

'Everton will be a tough test, though we will always fancy ourselves at home against anyone not matter who they are.'

West Brom will look to cement their position at the top of the league with a win over The Toffees and Robinson feels that they can do just that.

'If we work hard, to all the basics well and get a couple of goals we will win the game. One loss doesn't mean anything to me.'

'I am a firm believer in not making the same mistake twice, and if we stick to what we know best we will get a result.'

6 December 2012
Last updated at 11:35 GMT


Everton boss, David Moyes has said that he hopes he can compound the misery for West Brom when the play each other on Saturday, looking for a Merseyside double.

The Baggies lost to Liverpool on Monday in the Capital One Cup and Moyes thinks Eveton can make it a win for his team also.

'We have every chance of a win. We will go there and look to get a result and hopefully we can get one.'

'We are not performing the way I would like us to at the moment but this week in training there has been a much better zip about the players, they have looked good.'

Everton are knocking around at the wrong end of the table this season, seeing Moyes under pressure in his job though he says that the pressure of the job does not phase him.

'Of course it is not nice to be at the wrong end of the table and in a battle to stay up. However there is a lot of football to play and I intend to keep us in the league.'

'I don't feel the pressure of the job, it is a results business obviously when you are losing you are going to be questioned. Pick up a couple of wins and it all changes.'

8 December 2012
Last updated at 17:04 GMT


West Brom spared their blushes with a late strike from substitute Romelu Lukaku, to beat a poor Everton side 2-1.

The game started in comical fashion, as Everton bought their blue shirts with them rather than the away black strip meaning West Brom had to play in their away kit at home.

This did not seem to have any effect on the home side, though did cause confusion in the stands to begin with. West Brom started brightly, Dorrans cutting in from the right to unleash a poweful effort forcing Howard to tip wide.

West Brom continued to take dominance in the game and if not for Howard again the scoring would have been opened as Austin struck towards goal.

However on 20 minutes the deadlock was broken, Shane Long the beneficiary of some fantastic play down the right from Dorrans who was a tormentor for the whole of the first half.

Dorrans cut the ball back from the dead ball line having had the pace and trickery to beat his man, leaving the ball on a plate for Long who only had to get his foot in front of it which he duly did.

Charlie Austin on the other hand was having the game to forget as chance after chance came his way but lack of composure saw him scuff the ball wide, perhaps the pressure of being a top goalscoring in the Premier League starting to get to him a little.

The score remained 1-0 through to half time but there was no relent in the pressure that West Brom offered to the Everton goal, Howard once more earning his keep tipping over a header from Mulumbu just after half time.

George Thorne was introduced as well as Lukaku but the former had a chance to score his first for West Brom but he saw his effort from range well gathered but Howard.

These missed chances were to prove costly as from the first attack of not from Everton would result in a goal Gueye had come on for fellow sub Mirallas who was not pleased at being taken off throwing his shirt down on the ground and heading straight down the tunnel.

Gueye though had been on for just 4 minutes as he found himself in a goalscoring position, having the awareness and composure to round the keeper and slot into an empty net leaving the fans in the home end to pull faces and remain speechless as he went to celebrate.

Though one thing West Brom have been noted for this season is their ability to not know when the game is over and they showed that once again in this game.

As the game reached the 88th minutes a corner was given and the delightful swinging cross was headed down by Olsson leaving Lukaku to fire the ball home with power and pace beating Howard. Lukaku was delighted running the length of the pitch to lap up the applause coming his way.

Another well deserved win for West Brom but defeat for Everton sees them just one point above the drop zone.



Karl Robinson Said: 'We should have had this game wrapped up much, much earlier and that is something I am not happy about.'

'However we have picked up a win and that is a great thing to see, we continue to battle hard and not give up and that is possibly the most pleasing part about this side.'

'We have a tough game now in the middle of the week against Manchester City and hopefully we can make a great account of ourselves there.'

David Moyes Said: 'They have absolutely hammered us today, make no mistake about that. 2-1 is very flattering on our behalf and that is not acceptable.'

'We are lucky to still be in the game at half time, they missed chance after chance and then when you get a goal you think that perhaps you can nick it.'

'We gifted them the second though, slack marking at a corner is not acceptable and that is just the way it is going at the moment for us.'

West Brom Line Up: Gordon, Blind, Olsson, Bennett, Popov , Dorrans, Yacob (Sub Thorne 63 mins), Mulumbu, Gera, Austin (Sub Lukaku 63 mins), Long

Unused Substitutes: Daniel,Ridgewell, McAuley, Thomas, McLean

Everton Line Up: Howard, Hibbert, Jagielka, Heitinga, Distin, Naismith (Sub Oviedo 73 mins), Anderson, Neville, Olsson, Donovan, Jelevic (Sub Mirallas 6 mins (sub Gueye 68 mins)

Unused Substitutes: Mucha, Duffy, Hammar, Garbutt

Robinson Escaped The Top Clubs Radar

Post Categories: West Brom, Baggies, Karl Robinson
Phil McNulty - 15:12 UK Time Monday 10 December 2012

At The Hawthorns

When Karl Robinson was given the post as West Brom boss, many would have been forgiven for questioning the decision to allow such a young and relatively inexperienced manager take charge at a club just hoping to stay in the Premier League this season.

The very same man only has failure against his name so far in his short but sweet managerial career having had two seasons with the MK Dons and both times taking them to the play-offs only to see them beaten in the Semi-Final stages, though did gain 5th place finishes twice in League One.

So when Jeremy Peace took on the young man from Liverpool to lead his club to stay in the league most would have expected a season of trouble, torment and ultimately relegation coming from it.

Instead Karl Robinson has cemented his place as one of the rising stars of the English game, taking a much fancied West Brom side to the top of the Premier League and looking like nobody will be able to stop them.

Robinson is enjoying his time with West Brom

Robinson vowed to blood the side with youth and enthusiasm and with that came young players such as Daley Blind, Ryan Bennett and hot shot striker Charlie Austin who is proving to be the steal of the season so far. All of which are too knocking on the door of international call ups.

These players mixed with the experience of Olsson, Brunt, Gera and many more has made for a great balance to the side and one that looks like it will not be beaten.

Though to expect them to win the league is something that only dreams will be made of, West Brom fans are just riding high and expecting the ride to end sooner or later but the fact still remains with the style of attacking play and the never say die attitude we could see a new side representing us in Europe this season.

The style of play is something key in all of this. Robinson has continued to play with an attacking ethos that has been bought to them by now England manager Roy Hodgson. This attacking style has proved to be a master stroke, allowing them to chalk of some famous scalps and come close to beating others already this season.

West Brom have played 14 games and lost just once so far, that against a strong Manchester United side that they now find themselves above in the league looking down on all others in their wake.

What has now become evident and is indeed a fact, Karl Robinson has been snapped up at the right time by West Brom who will fight tooth and nail to keep him with them for seasons to come, slipping under the radar of many of the top sides in England.

That latest bbc update about Robson is fantstic! Once again well done buddy

Cheers pal, thanks for your continued support.

11 December 2012
Last updated at 17:29 GMT


Karl Robinson believes that the away game with Manchester City, taking place on Wednesday in the Premier League is the toughest test that his side will have faced this season.

Despite being three places and eight points better off than City Robinson believes that they will have to play beyond what they have this season to get a result.

'This is all very alien to us, being top of the league and the weight of expectation on our shoulders is something that we are going to have to face up too.'

'Though that means nothing on Wednesday, we are playing the best team in the league in my opinion, they may not have had the best of results lately but they are still able to turn it on in an instant.'

'We will have to be at it from minute one to the very end of the game. Any slip ups will be punished. We will do our best that is all I can ask of the lads.'

12 December 2012
Last updated at 22:01 GMT


Manchester City failed to gain ground on West Brom as the two sides played out a 2-2 draw, though the home side were deserving of the win.

Though the game was dominated by City who rarely let their opponents get a chance at goal, West Brom took the chances that were presented to them, well all but one anyway.

In the 8th minute of the game the away side were handed a penalty, a tackle from Lescott on Long enough to bring the striker down in the box and the referee took no time in pointing to the spot. It was Long himself that ran up to take the kick though he saw his effort saved by Hart, diving low to his left hand side and pushing the ball around the post.

The host then began to have a little bit of casualness but yet quality about their play. West Brom unable to match the neat passing in the middle of the park Toure the instigator of that.

Though West Brom were going their job well in frustrating their Manchester counterparts who were struggling to find gaps and weaknesses in the defensive structure of West Brom.

As it was a wonder goal from Dzeko opened the scoring hitting the ball sweetly into the top corner leaving Gordon with no chance. A sucker punch for West Brom who were just minutes away from taking the scores in level at half time.

Though if City thought that this would be the end of the tale they were to be wrong, though Tevez missed a glorious chance just after the break to make the game safe and with it the points but instead when one on one managed to hit the ball straight into the arms of Gordon.

It was a stroke of luck that would get the Baggies back into the game. A great corner swung in by Gera and as the heads rose the unfortunate Richards managed to divert the ball past his own keeper and into the net giving the away side a chance.

Machester City though were not going to be phased by this and came close again as Nasri broke down the wing managing to float a wonderful ball up into the box and Dzeko was there to head the ball goal wards only to see it bounce out of play off the post.

Sometimes however, football is all about luck and West Brom fans must have thought it was their lucky day as Shane Long made up for a missed penalty chance in the first half breaking free of the defence and stroking the ball home calmly to give West Brom the lead.

The lead however did not last long as just 3 minutes later, a defensive lapse of concentration saw Man City gain an equaliser and with it a point as Nasri was able to make his way into the box to fire home underneath Gordon.



Roberto Mancini Said: 'Well I am shocked with us today, no tempo, no spirit it was not good enough to see from the players playing for this club.'

'We have had so many chances to bury the game and put it to bed but we failed to do so. West Brom took theirs and that is why they leave here with a point.'

'Our aim is to win the league and drawing with teams is not good enough we have already dropped so many points this season so far.'

Karl Robinson Said: 'Hard work and determination was the tonic of the day for us today and it sure worked and paid of.'

'We knew we would have our backs against the wall at times, that is what happens when you come to play the bigger teams but when you get your chances you have to take them.'

'Right now I will back my side against anyone in the league and really we could have won this if not for poor concentration levels at the death to allow Nasri in.'

Man City Line Up: Hart, Richards, K Toure (Sub Zabaleta 81 mins), Lescott, Baines, Y Toure, Barry (Sub Milner 71 mins), Fellaini (Sub Nastasic 84 mins), Nazri, Tevez, Dzeko

Unused Substitutes: Friedel, Bunn, Sinclair, Clichy

Goal Scorers: Dzeko 41, Nasri 84

West Brom Line Up: Gordon, Tamas, Olsson, Bennett(Sub Bennett 84 mins), Popov (Sub Ridgewell 77 mins), McClean (Sub Dorrans, 84 mins), Yacob, Mulumbu, Gera, Austin, Long

Unused Substitutes: Daniels, Blind, Thorne, Odemwingie

Goal Scorers: K Toure O.G 71, Long 81

Venue: The Etihad Stadium

Attendance: 45,784

Nice to see the goalscorers tab on there now mate, thanks brilliant to come from behind but throwing the lead so late on was costly! A huge result gainst City though!

Not a problem mate, costly to throw it but a valuable point none the less.

Published
16.24 14th December 2012

Jonas Olsson believes that getting big points away at big sides in this league will see them finish in the top four this season.

Baggies vice captain Olsson may be part of the minority of players, fans and onlookers but he believes that West Brom can end the season in the top four places in the league and with it bring Champions League football to The Hawthorns.

'Working hard is what we do best, we never know when we have lost and we will always fight to the end. It may not see us finish in the top four places but I certainly believe that it is achievable and it is something to aim for.'

Jonas has been with the club for a number of seasons now, in fact this will be his fifth full campaign with West Brom but he believes he has seen nothing like this in his time here.

'There is much more togetherness and belief around the place than that I have ever seen. We are defying the odds at the moment and that is something to be incredibly proud of.'

'We just don't want this to end, players love to play with the feeling that we will not lose any game that we play in and Karl makes us believe that.'

'The squad is very much looking forward to the trip to QPR tomorrow and we would love to come away with maximum points again. If we work hard then I am sure we will be able too.'

Olsson himself will continue his role as captain as Chris Brunt will not make the squad for this game though it is though he will train with the squad next week and be available for selection the following weekend, though missing the Liverpool game at The Hawthorns midweek.

15 December 2012
Last updated at 17:01 GMT


West Brom were today celebrating yet another win after a fantastic 1-0 away display ensured them victory, even though QPR had much the better chances.

The away side certainly did not have this all their own way and many will see the last couple of away games as a definite four points gained as their form has taken some what of a dip of late though they are still getting results.

Jonjo Shelvey, on loan from Liverpool was a menace in the midfield, putting his foot in where it hurts and really spraying the ball about well, it was unfortunate for him that every time he found a killer pass the ball ended up with Zamora who was unable to find a finish either through sublime goalkeeping or just poor finishing.

QPR thought that they had taken the lead midway through what was a dull first half, as Shelvey climbed highest in the box to head home, though the officials ruled the goal out for climbing and they probably got that one right much to the disgust of the home fans.

Shelvey himself could have been sent off for an ill timed challenge high on the knee of Dorrans, though the West Brom midfielder did not make a meal of it probably saving the youngster from an early bath.

After a poor first half it did not take long for the action to start in the second. Long the benefactor of some awful defending as a mix up between defender and goalkeeper saw Long sneak in to tap the ball home, this his 15th goal of the Premier League season.

QPR needed a goal and fast, though fantastic defending restricted the home side to mostly long range efforst that were simple for Gordon to claim.

Adel Tarrabt came on at half time and looked like the only QPR player with a plan, carving open the away side on a number of occasions but often keeping the ball for too long, the time he didn't he unleashed a rasping drive only to see it graze the bar on its way over the top.

West Brom had the game wrapped up, though with 5 minutes to play saw Charlie Austin go down clutching his leg seemingly in agony as he stretched for a loose ball. The stretcher was called for and I am sure that the Baggies will hope this is not as bad as first feared.

As it is, yet another win for West Brom who seem to be unstoppable at the moment in the Premier League pushing hard to realise the dreams of many and make their way into Europe come the end of the season.



Mark Hughes Said: 'It is poor on our behalf we had chances to win this and we haven't taken them but I guess that is what happens when you are fighting at the bottom of the league.'

'I can't take anything away from my players, they gave everything. When the ball ends up in the back of your net the way it does though you kind of just wonder when it will be your day.'

'We will have to pick up again and push on for our next game and hopefully we will get a little more luck then.'

Karl Robinson Said: 'We have been made to work hard for victory today and had the result been the other way around I don't think that we would have been able to complain about it.'

'We were slow to the ball and certainly not out normal selves. We need to pick it up, there are no excuses as the games come thick and fast through the whole of December.'

'As it is we are just gutted to lose Charlie to injury, we will know more tomorrow when he goes for scans but hopefully it is not too bad.'

QPR Line Up: Cesar, Bosingwa, Onuoha, Mbia, Wallace, Park (Sub Mackie 85 mins), Faurlin, Shelvey, Granero (Sub Traore 71 mins), Zamora, Hoillet (Sub Tarrabt 45 mins)

Unused Substitutes: Green, Wright-Phillips, Nelsen, Diakite

Goal Scorers: None

West Brom Line Up: Gordon, Blind, Olsson, Bennett, Popov, McClean, Dorrans, Mulumbu, Gera, Austin (Sub Odemwingie 85 mins), Long

Unused Substitutes: Daniels, Ridgewell, McAuley, Tamas, Thorne, Lukaku

Goal Scorers: Long 46

Venue: Loftus Road

Attendance: 18,439

17 December 2012
Last updated at 10:14 GMT


Charlie Austin looks set to be out for up to five weeks with a calf injury that he picked up against QPR in the Premier League.

The news will come as a blow to West Brom who have seen Austin in a rich vein of form this season and boss, Robinson, was naturally disappointed with the outcome of the scan.

'We were really hopeful that it would just be a little niggle that he will miss a couple of games for but to lose him for a number of weeks is a real blow to us.'

'We have to work hard in his absence to keep the points flowing onto the board and keeping us in a great position.'

It becomes a lot harder for West Brom as they also look set to lose striker Peter Odemwingie to the African Nations Cup in January but Robinson vows that this will not be a problem.

'We are looking at a number of potential solutions to this issue we face. There are plenty all of which that are viable to be done and I am sure that we can make at least one of them happen.'

Published
16.24 18th December 2012

West Bromwich Albion can today confirm that the games with Aston Villa and Tottenham will be shown live on Sky Sports as part of their festive games.

West Brom will first take on Aston Villa at Villa Park in what will be a fiercely contested derby, both teams not wanting to lose local pride. Villa currently find themselves in the drop zone and will look to do everything they can to get a win when Sky come to town.

The game has not changed date but will now kick off at 13.30 so if you have tickets then please be aware of the kick off change.

As with the Villa game, the home game with Spurs on Boxing day will now kick off at a different time of 17.30.

This will be a different kettle of fish to the away game just days before as Spurs will come to The Hawthorns looking to close the gap between the two sides, sitting just six points and a place behind the Baggies in the league.

19 December 2012
Last updated at 22:03 GMT


West Brom battled hard to keep Liverpool restricted to very few chances in a game that saw the home side never look like losing, eventually winning the game 2-0.

You would be forgiven for thinking that the wheels could fall off this incredible journey as Premier League minnows West Brom win yet another game. Though as crazy as it is sounding, they have two games to go before the turn of the calender year and should they manage to stay unbeaten in both, they will have lost just once in 19 games so far this season.

An incredible feat for a side working with a small budget yet the togetherness of the squad was there for all to see as they chalked off Liverpool with, in truth, very minimal effort.

It was perhaps that togetherness that helped them to keep Liverpool at bay who were so far enjoying an average season under new boss, Brendan Rodgers, no matter how hard they tried they just couldn't break down the resolute defence of the Baggies.

The deadlock would not take long to be broken. Graham Dorrans was having a superb game out on the right wing and was a nuisance all game, it was him that would get the opener and that from a brilliant solo effort.

He stormed down the right, beating Enrique with ease before cutting into the box, he used skill to beat Skrtel again with relative ease to the situation before sweeping the ball home into the far corner of the goal with the outside of his boot, needless to say Dorrans was delighted though just lapped up the applause with a cheeky bow for his celebration.

From then Liverpool looked beaten and a team that was devoid of ideas to break down a West Brom side who were defending in numbers but attacking in great strength.

The closest the away side came to a goal in the first half was with Suarez who beat the offside trap but when in the one on one position could only sweep the ball wide of the mark.

West Brom though would take to the break with a two goal lead. A fantastic corner from the mercurial Dorrans found the head of Olsson who got up to head the ball in off the underside of the bar, this his first of the season.

Liverpool tried to get back into the game after the break their only shot on target through the whole game from Downing though he was soon replaced as Liverpool looked to try and get back in the game.

Albion however managed to not only just hold on but do it with the ease they have shown in many games before this, no nonsense defending at the back really helping the cause as they just looked to see the game out, which the did to keep their charge on the Premier League well and truly on.



Karl Robinson Said: 'I am so pleased with the players today, they have rallied around in Charlie's absence and worked even harder than normal.'

'It is a luxury to be able to take certain players off who are tired so that they are ready for the weekend, in truth I am just so delighted with the attitude today.'

'We have restricted a very good side to very little and as said before we fancy our chances at home against anyone.'

Brendan Rodgers Said: 'It is a lesson for us today as we have been shown exactly how to play football. We have played so poorly I can't even begin to describe it.'

'There was only one team that wanted the win today and that wasn't us so it needs to change quickly for us.'

'We have only got two points from the last four games, that is not acceptable and we must pick it up if we want to finish with European football next season.'

West Brom Line Up: Gordon, Blind, Olsson, Bennett, Popov, Dorrans, Yacob, Mulumbu, Gera (Sub McClean 45 mins), Long (Sub Lukaku 68 mins), Odemwingie

Unused Substitutes: Daniels, McAuley, Ridgewell, Thorne, Thomas

Goal Scorers: Dorrans 19, Olsson 42

Liverpool Line Up: Reina, Johnson, Carragher, Skrtel, Enrique, Lucas, Allen, Sahin, Borini (Sub Hunderson 72 mins), Downing (Sub Assaidi 57 mins), Suarez (Sub Pacheco 88 mins)

Unused Substitutes: Doni, Rate, Coates, Sterling

Goal Scorers: None

Venue: The Hawthorns

Attendance: 26,445

20 December 2012
Last updated at 10:14 GMT


West Brom captain Chris Brunt has returned from injury in time to be in contention to face Midlands rivals Aston Villa and concedes that the players have been waiting for this game for some time.

West Brom currently sit 2nd in the league and will face a Villa side looking to climb out of the drop zone, currently in 18th and looking like a side with not much going for them. Though despite this Brunt knows that complacency must not become an issue.

'We just can't wait to get going against them now. We know we have to be at the races from minute one and I know that we can do just that.'

'Derby games have more of a cup feel to them than the normal Premier League games so we know that there is a difference about it.'

'No matter the league positions though this game will be a tough one, as are all the games in this league. I am just pleased I am back from injury to be in contention we have been waiting for this game for weeks now.'

'It is one that we want to win for the fans, bragging right are important and we want them to enjoy Christmas too.' Joked Brunt.

22 December 2012
Last updated at 13:55 GMT


Paul Lambert will tomorrow take charge of his first ever Midlands derby game and he has said that his side will win this one 'for the fans'.

'We have to change around our fortunes and work hard to do so. What a game to be able to do that in.' Said Lambert, 'derby games are like no other, I know the fans will be right up for it and it makes for a good atmosphere.'

'We have not had a good season so far and that can all change with a win this weekend, suddenly a win over your rivals and the whole complexion of the season changes.'

West Brom are currently 2nd in the league and Lambert acknowledges this and has told the BBC he feels that they are favourites for the win.

'I think that we are the underdogs this weekend. West Brom are the ones that have to get the win, look at them they are absolutely flying.'

23 December 2012
Last updated at 15:26 GMT


Aston Villa went a goal to the good but could do nothing to stop a rampant West Brom from scoring at will as the final score ended 4-1 to the away side, ultimately to be the last game for boss Paul Lambert who was sacked after the match.

It was no wonder really that the manager was to lose his position after this game, a game that saw his team dominate for 15 minutes but allow a strong and powerful West Brom side time and space on the ball to do what they do best, win.

It was a great start for the home team however as Benteke was able to lift the ball over the Baggies defence and free Bent who had time and space to fire home past Gordon. Bent himself the only glimmer of light in the Villa side this term having scored 17 goals for them.

They could have made it two very quickly after but Ireland saw his free kick saved with relative ease by Gordon who looked determined to keep his side in the match.

Chris Brunt was fit and able to start the match, though Villa perhaps would have been wishing he wasn't. The midfielder playing on the left wing today was able to beat a man with the simplest of touches showing that he was really up for the match.

Though it took a while for all of the West Brom side to get going like Brunt, the captain doing his best to raise the spirits of his side. When Shane Long was set free by Dorrans, West Brom fans were already celebrating as he hit the ball, though his strike had beaten the keeper but not the post.

Dorrans however was in the mood for goals, having got one himself last week he was at it again just before half time. The right winger striking home a wonderful free kick into the top corner. West Brom were able to get a second before half time, as Olsson was up highest from a Dorrans corner, much the same as last week but this time the turn around was complete.

The second half started and the wind looked to have been taken from the sails of Villa, the two goals before half time sapping the energy of the relegation threatened club.

They could have equalised, however lack of composure on the part of Benteke was the reason for this not coming to fruition. Getting into a one on one situation but not able to beat Gordon, in truth the strike straight at the keeper.

Brunt however would make them pay for the miss after Dorrans lifted a wonderful ball into the box, full of power and pace Brunt swooped in from the left wing to tuck away his first goal of the season and put the result beyond doubt.

With little over 15 minutes left to play the Baggies added a 4th goal through Bennett, another Dorrans assist again from a corner saw the defender unmarked to head home from close range, allowing the West Brom fans to have a very enjoyable Christmas.



Paul Lambert Said: 'I really have nothing to say on the game today. We were goot for the first few minutes and then we just let them have the time and space they needed to punish us.'

'The fact reamins that we can't take the lead and then just throw it away like we did, especially against your local rivals.'

'Our fans booed at the end and I can't say I blame them. We were abject and lacked creativity that they had in abundance.'

Karl Robinson Said: 'Well we are just delighted that the fans will have a very happy Christmas.'

'We worked hard to get the points today, they pushed us hard in the first half but our two just before half time really gave us the impetus to go for it and get the victory.'

'The players are now really looking forward to the Tottenham game, we are seemingly well prepared and hope for a win but know that will be a tough test.'

Aston Villa Line Up: Guzan, Lowton, Dunne, Vlaar, Warnock, Clark (Sub Gardner 51 mins), Reo-Coker, El Ahmadi, Ireland, Benteke (Sub Holman 85 mins), Bent

Unused Substitutes: Given, Bannan, Hutton, Albrighton, N'Zogbia

Goal Scorers: Bent 6

West Brom Line Up: Gordon, Blind, Olsson, Bennett, Popov, Dorrans, Yacob, Mulumbu (Sub Thorne 62 mins), Brunt (Sub Gera 85 mins), Long, Lukaku (Sub Odemwingie 77 mins)

Unused Substitutes: Daniels, McAuley, Ridgewell, McClean

Goal Scorers: Dorrans 41, Olsson 45+2, Brunt 61, Bennett 74

Venue: Villa Park

Attendance: 42,785