Source: FOOTYMAD
Michael an 'appy' chappy
First team coach praises 'outstanding' performance Michael Appleton revealed the backroom’s staff delight at securing a place in the fourth round of the Carling Cup. A much changed Albion side extended their unbeaten home record against a Man City side including the likes of Shay Given, Adam Johnson, Patrick Viera, Roque Santa Cruz and Jo. It was Given who kept the Baggies at bay before striker Jo fired City into an unexpected lead. However after the break, Roberto Di Matteo’s men again showed their fighting spirit to come from behind for the second game running courtesy of goals from Gianni Zuiverloon and Simon Cox. “We're delighted,” said first team coach Appleton. “It gets us into the hat for the next round but, more importantly, the performance was outstanding. “We started a little bit slow in the first ten minutes but after that we controlled most of the game. “We came under a bit of pressure in the last ten minutes, which you expect from a quality team. “It was a little bit frustrating to go behind but at half-time we just tried to concentrate on the positives. “We created five or six decent opportunities and came up against a fantastic goalkeeper who was determined to keep a clean sheet. “But we said at half-time the next goal was going to be crucial and luckily enough we got it. “I thought we took the game to them again from there. “It's fantastic just to be in the draw. “It keeps our unbeaten streak going and the place is buzzing at the moment.”
