Interviews

‘Character’ paid dividends - Barry

GARETH Barry believes Albion will achieve their goals this season if they continue to show the “mental strength” which earned them a point on Friday night.

The Baggies twice came from behind to draw 2-2 with Aston Villa in a pulsating local derby under the lights at The Hawthorns. 

And the 37-year-old midfielder, who made his first start in two months, says Darren Moore will be delighted with the “character” on show from his men. 

“I felt we fully deserved a point so it was nice to get the goal in the end,” admitted Barry.

“It was end-to-end, as you’d expect the way both teams are playing, so it was nice to come away with a point.

“There was a lot of energy out there, you could feel it.

“We’re disappointed to concede in the manner of their first goal but coming back showed our character. It shows what sort of dressing room we’ve got.

“The manager will be delighted to have that in the dressing room. It’s going to be needed again this season.

He added: “There will be ups and downs, games like this.

“We’ll need mental strength in the business end of the season when hopefully we’ll be right up there challenging.

“To play in a derby game against Villa was slightly different.

“Football takes over and you get on with the game looking to get the win for the Albion.”

  • Home