West Brom 2, Tottenham 0: Chris Lepowski's big match verdict
The Baggies went close a minute later. Olsson rose to meet Jonathan Greening’s corner but the ball sailed straight into the hands of Gomes. Half-time was a welcome respite for Albion who were struggling to react to Tottenham’s re-organisation following Assou-Ekotto’s dismissal.
Tempers were also beginning to fray among both sets of players.
Gomes produced an outstanding save in the 48th minute after Borja was brought down on the edge of the box by Jermaine Jenas. Brunt’s free-kick was tipped over brilliantly by the Brazilian.
Zuiverloon saw his effort saved three minutes later when he raced into the box and slid a rising shot towards goal. Albion opened up Tottenham’s left-hand side in the 69th minute when Morrison found Zuiverloon, who pitched his right-wing cross just at the correct height for Moore, only for Dawson to cut it out before it fell for the Albion striker.
Albion scored a controversial goal in the 83rd minute. Bednar appeared to shove Dawson as he rose for the ball to meet Cech’s cross. Dawson threw himself to the ground, Bednar threw himself in delight right in front of the Albion fans. No foul.
Substitute Graham Dorrans went close to adding a second two minutes later but curled his shot over the bar.
Albion made sure of the points in injury time. Cech slalomed past three players, released Morrison, who played the ball back for the unmarked Beattie to score from close range.
The potential for a sequel to the Great Escape is very evident.
Jay Simpson, who watched the game from the stands, would have been impressed by the performances of those who have their places to lose by his loan move from Arsenal. Paul Robinson must also be sweating over his place following Cech’s excellent performance and Barnett is playing like the quality defender we know he is.
Crucially, teams around Albion are stuttering.
Portsmouth and West Ham stand to lose players during January. Stoke are starting to drop points, while Middlesbrough, Bolton, and Hull City are by no means safe. Likewise Blackburn, Newcastle and Sunderland.
Fasten your seat belts for the ride ahead.
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