Allardyce praises ‘resilient’ West Brom after Liverpool draw
Sam Allardyce has praised his West Brom players for their ‘resilient’ and ‘organised’ performance in the surprise 1-1 draw against Liverpool.
The Baggies picked up a draw against Man City in Slaven Bilic’s last match as boss.
They managed to do the same again today, frustrating a Liverpool team packed with talent.
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The home side took the lead early in the first half through Sadio Mane. He chested down a Joel Matip cross and volleyed the ball past Sam Johnstone.
Liverpool dominated possession in the first half but West Brom managed to keep it 1-0.
Alisson saved a big chance from Karlan Grant in the second half, which looked like it might be the Baggies’ only chance to score.
But Semi Ajayi stepped up in the 82nd-minute to head past Alisson and give them a hard-earned point.
The draw meant Allardyce’s solid run at Anfield was continued. He’s picked up points in his last four matches at the stadium, all with different clubs.
Speaking about the spirited performance, Allardyce told Sky Sports: “I think really good organisation was the key, in a team trying their best to nullify the best team in this league, on their own patch. What a fantastic job they did.
“We kept that tight ship all the way through. We went down a goal quite early but we stayed resilient and passed the ball better in the second half.
“I’m just glad we got a draw but every man served the spirit of the team, in terms of what we need to get ourselves out of this position. Goals are precious to us and this one has given us a point because we defended so well, and we took the opportunity when it came.
“We felt it was difficult in the first 20 minutes to even get an attack going but then we changed it with Karlan Grant as an out ball. At half time we needed to do more with keeping possession and we did well after the break.
“The lads have shown a lot of grit and determination and they have fought for each other.”