Club News

Pulis on Toffees reverse at The Hawthorns

Northampton cup clash next up for Baggies on Tuesday

TONY Pulis reacted to Albion's 2-1 defeat against Everton in the Club's first home game of the 2016/17 Premier League season.

Having triumphed at Crystal Palace on the opening day, Gareth McAuley headed the Baggies into a dream early start at The Hawthorns.

However, Kevin Mirallas levelled for the visitors on the stroke of half-time before Gareth Barry secured all three points on the hour mark.

Albion head coach Pulis said: "These lads work so hard for each other and they keep going which is what you want.

"I thought we played ever so well in the first half and the manner of Everton's goal in added time was annoying for us because we gave away possession.

"If Fletch's chance goes in at the start of the second half that changes the game.

"We're playing well and creating, but it's not just the chances that we're missing, we're getting into the final third and picking the wrong pass -  it's just that bit of extra quality needed.

"Everton had players like (Romelu) Lukaku to bring on and I think if you look at who they've brought in they're going to be wanting to be a top-six side this year.

"I thought we did really well in the first half, and I was pleased for the players. But then with their first goal, we concede possession on the halfway line and the next time we touch it it's in the back of the net.

"But I can't criticise the players, even in the second half. Everton were much more into it with Lukaku, (Yannick) Bolasie and (Ashley) Williams coming on, but the lads still kept trying and having a go and you're hoping something will drop for you in the end, but it didn't."