After progressing to the FA Cup quarter finals at the Hawthorns, we’ve gained the thoughts of a West Brom fan who watched last night’s 5-goal encounter in the West Midlands.
We spoke to Baggies season ticket holder Adam Kemshall (@A_Kemo26), who discussed the game, our best/worst performers on the night and our chances of going all the way.
Here’s what he had to say, with him praising Almiron, Saint-Maximin, Joelinton and Longstaff – but feeling Rose and Bentaleb were our weak links on the night:
“No doubt about it that Newcastle were the better side on the evening.
“It was clear that you were looking to exploit the lack of pace and mobility in our central midfield with Brunt & Barry a combined age of 70+!
“I thought it was a decent game, especially the 2nd half, but very frustrating for us as we had no creativity in midfield until Krovinovic came on for Barry…then we actually gave you something to think about!
“But, before that, I’m not sure Newcastle have had an easier 50 mins this season.”
“Almiron took his goals very well and looks like he’s starting to settle.
“Saint-Maxim is quality. You could see we were frightened every time he ran at us and I like the fact he’s very direct in his play. He likes to take his man on and even in the 2nd half wasn’t afraid to do some defensive work.
“I actually thought Joelinton worked hard last night – that 2nd goal doesn’t happen without his work rate and beautiful back heel.
“Unfortunately for him £40M is a huge price tag to have on your head but if he’s making goals for others I don’t see the issue… maybe if he didn’t have the 9 shirt on his back, there wouldn’t be as much focus on him.
“The lads behind him got close to him last night and offered support, maybe if that happened more he’d get some pressure taken off him.
“I’ll go as far to say I think we’ll see a different Joelinton next season… if he’s still at Newcastle.
“Sean Longstaff also a clear talent. Very good on the ball, found himself in some good areas edge of the box 1st half – but shooting was wayward. Still, a very bright future for him I think.”
“Danny Rose looked like a shadow of his former self.
“Maybe it’s because he hasn’t played much football of late but he certainly didn’t look anywhere near his usual quality.
“Bentaleb too. I wasn’t impressed with him, but, again, is that because he hasn’t played much football either?”
Here’s what Adam then said when we asked if he thinks we can go all the way after moving into the last 8:
“You have every chance of going the distance, especially in one off games.
“I thought going forward Newcastle were excellent for 50mins. If they can start more games like that they’d have a real chance of going far but also doing better in the league too!
“I think you took your foot off the gas which made it harder at the end, but in reality it was a comfortable night for the Toon.
“I’m all for anybody but the usual winning the cup, so all the best for the next round!”
Some interesting and complimentary comments from a Baggies perspective here, with him gracious in defeat and making some interesting observations about our players and performance last night.
Hopefully we meet again in the Premier League next season!
