Boss unhappy he could not deliver for travelling fans
PEPE Mel admitted he was disappointed with his team’s performance in their 2-0 defeat at Sunderland – and has urged the players to send the fans home on a high from Sunday’s finale against Stoke (ko 3pm).
The Baggies found themselves 2-0 down just past the half-hour mark at the Stadium of Light following strikes from Jack Colback and Fabio Borini.
Although the visitors improved in the second half, it was too little, too late as the Black Cats ran out comfortable winners.
And Mel is eager to end the season on a positive note against the Potters in front of a sell-out Hawthorns crowd.
“I’m very disappointed with the first half tonight,” he said.
“I don’t understand what happened in the first half.
“We weren’t able to equal Sunderland’s intensity.
“I think the changes we made for the second half were made because we realised we hadn’t won many of the second balls.
“I think to win a football match you have to show the same intensity as your opposition.
“Sunderland had a lot of belief and confidence; they’ve had a very good month.
“I would like to congratulate them.”
Around 1,000 Albion fans made the long midweek jaunt to Wearside and Mel was unhappy they left empty-handed.
“I really am extremely disappointed and particularly so for the people who have come here to support us,” he added.
“We need to win the last game so people go away happy and the final image we give of West Brom is the best possible one.
“This is why Sunday really is the biggest test so we can all go home happy.”