Match Reports

Accrington v Albion

ALBION booked their place in round three of the Carabao Cup with a 3-1 victory at Accrington Stanley.

Salomon Rondon's header and Matt Phillips' powerful strike handed Albion a two-goal advantage with just over half an hour on the clock, both grabbing their first goals of the season at the Wham Stadium.

Summer signing Jay Rodriguez then got in on the act by netting his first competitive goal for the club with a low drive in the 64th minute.

Tom Dallison netted an 88th-minute consolation for Stanley but it was not enough to prevent Albion's safe passage past their League Two opponents. 

Albion's victory in what was the first-ever meeting between the two sides extends their 100 per cent start to the season and secures their place in the round-three draw, which takes place in Shanghai at 4.15am BST on Thursday.

Tony Pulis named a strong side with just four changes from the XI who beat Burnley on Saturday, Rondon, Boaz Myhill, James Morrison and Nacer Chadli coming in.

The Baggies flew out of the blocks and Rondon was denied well by Stanley keeper Aaron Chapman after just four minutes, but the Venezuela international did not have to wait long for an opener as he headed home Rodriguez's right-wing cross.

Rodriguez and Stanley striker Jonny Edwards both missed chances before the Baggies doubled their advantage - Rondon turning provider to send a ball over the top which was powered home by Phillips.

Myhill saved well with his feet from Accrington captain Sean McConville before Rodriguez and Rondon had further chances to add to Albion's advantage.

Stanley had penalty appeals waved away, and within minutes Rodriguez got the goal his fine display deserved, powering home low from the edge of the penalty area.

Substitute Jonathan Leko and Rondon both had efforts cleared off the line as Albion ran out winners in the League Cup round two encounter, but not before Dallison had netted a late consolation for the hosts.

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