The ACN Match Review: West Bromwich Albion (h) | OneFootball

How did we play?

This was a weird one. In the first half, West Brom looked like they’d been told not to try; as a consequence we spent most of our time in their box, lobbing crosses and corners in, showboating and playing like we were already 4-0 up. It seemed like a procession as the opposition were SO bad. We started the second half with the swagger we ended the first half with but forgetting we were only a goal up. The Baggies clearly had a bollocking at half time and came out a completely different side, we couldn’t get near the ball and the inevitable equaliser happened. You could feel Clement’s fury from the sidelines and a few subs later, everyone took it seriously and we got the job done. Overall, a fun if odd game but heartening to see we really do have quality to win games when it matters.

What was the best bit of the game?

Ben Chrisene’s goal was thumped home with a purpose that said ‘no more messing about, have some of this’. It put us 2-1 up and the result was never in doubt from that point on. As a side note, there is something very satisfying about seeing a full back arrive at the corner of the penalty area and hit the ball across the keeper first time. As crisp a finish as you’ll see all season.

What was the worst bit of the game?

The second half miasma was a haunting glimpse into the early part of this season – second to the ball, passes not working, Jacob Wright going missing. But King Kenny came on and everyone seemed to think ‘Shit, Dad’s back, we’d better make an effort’, and all was fine.

What was the atmosphere like?

An almost full house at super-cheap ticket prices is great for getting non-regulars into the ground and that should be applauded – how else are we to encourage younger fans to support Norwich? The risk is that the atmosphere can be displaced but the drum banged heartily and the lower Barclay led the songs well, with many following. And who can’t get behind the, ‘Ali, Ali Ali, Mo, Mo, Mo Mo Mo Mo’ song without a smile? Big shout to the travelling support, in what must be a horrible season on the road they gave it loads and we especially loved them singing ‘We got the ball’ after a particularly long period of Nodge possession.

Hero of the match

In a game that was so focused on our attack, and an exciting prospect in Paris, it may seem odd to choose a defender but Ruairi McConville is some player. He’s so composed he looks like he’s been a centre back for 30 years. This game had the potential to go wrong and he didn’t let it.

Summary in Five Words

Philippe always finds a way.