Ryan Mason says Albion’s response to going 1-0 down at home to Oxford United on Saturday afternoon was “excellent”.
Former Baggies forward Will Lankshear put the U’s in front in the early knockings of the second period, but Mason's men found a leveller almost instantly when Oxford defender Greg Leigh turned the ball into his own net.
Striker Aune Heggebø headed in the winner with 20 minutes remaining – a goal which secured a first win in five for the hosts.
It was a result which was “deserved” in the boss’ mind, on an afternoon where Albion delivered a “dominant” display.
Ryan said: “It was really important to win today and I think the players deserved it because they played a really good match.
“Obviously going a goal down against the run of play can be difficult, but the group showed so much personality to keep going and ultimately get what they deserved.
“We were dominant. Football is funny because we had 15 shots in that first half and so many penalty-area entries, corners and pressure. We didn’t make it count and we need to get better at that.
“Despite that, I was really pleased with the players’ commitment and discipline to keep going regardless of what was happening in the game.
“We had a spell in the second half where it would have been a real shame if we didn’t score a couple of goals because we got into some really good positions and put some really good balls in the box. The players got what they deserved.
“Our response was excellent to going a goal down. We spoke a lot about showing personality today and the group really did that.
“We played a really good game on Tuesday night, but we conceded a goal in the 95th minute and that can create a negative feeling, but most importantly, we have a group of players who are working hard and giving everything.
“I really believe the more you give to each other and the group, the more you’ll get back and today we deserved the win. We’re happy.
“The challenge is to remain consistent in what we want to do. We believe we should have more points on the board from the performances and the games we’ve played, but that happens in football.
“I believe, over the course of a season, if you do the right things and commit yourself to the group then we’ll be on the other end of late goals.
“We defended the box really well today and had opportunities to go and get the third, which we weren’t able to make the most of. Most importantly, we’re happy to have won the game.”
