Defensive stability key for Reid

01 March 2011 15:30
West Brom defender Steven Reid is confident the team can add defensive resilience to their strength of character in order to survive their Barclays Premier League relegation battle. A late equaliser from on-loan Arsenal forward Carlos Vela in the 1-1 draw at Stoke on Monday night highlighted the Baggies' fighting spirit but Rory Delap's headed opener exposed deficiencies which still exist at the back. West Brom have conceded 53 goals in 28 matches and Reid knows it is an area which has to be tightened up quickly if they are to hang onto top-flight status for another year. "We are looking a lot more solid, resolute and we are defending set-plays better and if you can do that well against teams like Stoke it stands you in good stead for the rest of the season." said Reid. "It was a decent point at Stoke and we've now got 10 cup finals left. "Birmingham (on Saturday) is another massive game because they are still down there as well (just a point ahead of West Brom in 16th) and they will be buzzing and full of confidence after their Carling Cup final win."

Source: PA