And boss insists Baggies deserved 'lucky break' against the Swans
STEVE Clarke admitted Albion got a ‘lucky break’ at the death in today’s 2-1 win over Swansea – but insisted his side fully deserved the three points.The Baggies fell behind in the 33rd minute as Luke Moore returned to his former stomping ground to head the opener.
But in-form Romelu Lukaku swept home an equaliser five minutes before the break with his 13th goal of the season.
The on-loan Chelsea striker missed the chance to give the hosts the lead from the penalty spot in the 57th minute.
But Gareth McAuley's towering header from Chris Brunt's corner did put them ahead four minutes later - although the goal may eventually be credited as a Jonathan de Guzman own goal.
And, when substitute Roland Lamah’s strike was incorrectly ruled out for off-side three minutes from time, it meant Albion secured a third victory in four games to leapfrog the Swans and Liverpool into seventh spot in the Barclays Premier League table.
“We got a lucky break,” said Clarke.
“The goal definitely should have been given, the ball came off Ben Foster last.
“It’s fortuitous – but sometimes when you put in the effort, energy and quality we put into that game you probably earn that bit of luck.
“We deserved to win the game – don’t be writing that we didn’t!
“I’m delighted to come from behind because we don’t do it very often.
“In the Premier League there are not too many teams that can do it.
“When you go behind in this league it is difficult, especially against a team with the quality of Swansea.
“One of their biggest qualities is playing on the counter-attack, with pace.
“So, to come back and get three points was really good.
“The only disappointment was going behind from a set-play again - and that’s something we need to work on.”
The Albion chief also praised his troops for not letting their heads drop after Lukaku missed from the spot.
And he says there can be no questioning his team’s motivation since securing the traditionally-recognised 40-point safety mark three games ago.
“When we missed the penalty we were in total control of the game,” insisted Clarke.
“I felt we had a good momentum and we didn’t allow it to upset us and we just kept playing.
“We got ourselves in front and I thought by and large, with the exception of the disallowed goal, we controlled the game quite well.
“They didn’t have too many clear-cut chances or shots on goal and I don’t remember Ben making too many saves today.
“We defended well and played well.”
He added: “The motivation is good.
“We had a little chat last week before we went to Stamford Bridge to talk about the fact we’re moving into the final part of the season.
“And I asked them at Stamford Bridge to show me they had the desire to stay in the top half of the table and push on.
“I thought we showed that last week and we certainly showed that today.
“I thought it was a really good game today between two sides who have had really good seasons.
“I think that’s why it was so satisfying.
“It’s not just about beating Swansea City at home; it’s about beating a really good team at home.
“That’s why I’m pleased for the players because they deserved to do that.”