Peterborough United 2 West Brom 3: Chris Lepkowski's Big Match Verdict

Aug 19 2009 by Chris Lepkowski

Some overall performances were encouraging. Luke Moore is clearly enjoying the new regime. Since the start of pre-season, the ex-Villa man has shown more energy, vigour and determination than he ever did under Mowbray. Perhaps he feels wanted. Chris Wood is blossoming. He faded during the second half yesterday but his intelligence in picking out Moore's run for Albion's second was the stuff of experienced forwards.

And, behind him, Chris Brunt wore down the Posh defenders, while supported by Cummings who looked inventive in attack. Joe Mattock, the opposite full-back, wasn't always on top - one or twice he got beaten too easily and wasn't at his best, but he will undoubtedly improve as he settles into his new role. Substitute Jerome Thomas likes to take people on and has pace. Albion fans will rise to their feet in excitement when he's in his pomp.

Dorrans and Youssouf Mulumbu, while possessing plenty of spirit and character, were perhaps guilty of inexperience at times. Mulumbu could have walked for a deliberate hand-ball after already being booked, while Dorrans could have been given a straight red for the challenge on Charlie Lee.

We mustn't forget that the main impetus for last night's victory came without Roman Bednar's strength, James Morrison's ability, Ishmael Miller's power, Robert Koren's experience (in the main) and, above all else, Jonathan Greening's leadership and presence.

Albion are preparing for a new era without Greening, who is set for a move to Fulham. Good luck to 'Jonno' - he's conducted himself with dignity, grace and will leave with plenty of goodwill from those he served over the last five years.

Yet last night's match proved that Albion have a lot to offer this season, even as their influential skipper, which he most certainly is, prepares for the journey down the M40.

PETERBROUGH (4-4-2): Lewis, Lee, Morgan (Rowe 77), Zakuani, Williams (Martin 15), Batt, Diagouraga (Frecklington 63), Coutts, Boyd, Mclean, Mackail-Smith. Subs: Keates, McKeown, Pearce, Green.

ALBION (4-4-2): Carson 6, Cummings 6, Martis 5, Olsson 6, Mattock 5, Brunt 7, Dorrans 6, Mulumbu 6, Cech 6 (Thomas 66, 7), Moore 8* (Beattie 88), Wood 7 (Koren 54, 5). Subs: Kiely (gk), Barnett, Reid, Cox.

REFEREE: G Horwood (Bedfordshire)

ATTENDANCE: 8752