birminghammail--2020-03-07--Armed police in Staple Lodge Road in West Heath amid attack report

Armed police were scrambled as a Birmingham street was sealed off on Saturday night .
The officers were sent to Staple Lodge Road in West Heath after what was described as an `` assault '' .
No other details were available as of 9pm on Saturday , March 7 .
But , in the only available update , West Midlands Police 's firearms operations unit , said the investigation continued but there was no risk to the public .
Bus services were diverted and drivers told to avoid the area when the alarm was raised some hours earlier .
Unconfirmed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ leave buses near West Heath Park and at least one ambulance had been at the scene .
There were also suggestions of more police activity in nearby Kinlet Avenue , with video posted on social media showing what appeared to be unmarked police cars with emergency lights flashing .
The firearms team tweeted : `` # TeamC supported @ ResponseWMP at this incident .
Delivered medical care to a male who had been assaulted .
The investigation is ongoing and there is no risk to the public .
`` A large cordon remains @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's support with this whilst we investigate . ''
It was the latest incident in a shocking weekend of violence across Birmingham and the Black Country which left five people hurt in four other , unrelated knife attacks .
As of around 8.30pm , a small cordon was in place by the entrance of West Heath Park .
Two marked cars and an unmarked police car were blocking one side and another unmarked vehicle was within the cordon .
Several other police vehicles were placed at the other end of the cordon .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the West Midlands Roads information service : `` Police incident on # StapleLodgeRoad in # WestHeath .
Please avoid the area and use an alternative route . ''
And National Express West Midlands told passengers : `` Diversion - 47 service is on a diversion .
From City : Wychall Lane , The Fairway , Vardon Way , Rednal Rd , West Heath Island , Alvechurch Rd , West Heath Rd then normal line of route .
To City : West Heath Rd , Alvechurch Rd , Rednal Rd , Vardon Way , @ @ @ @ @ @ @

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (James Cartledge, Stephanie Balloo)

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
Armed police were scrambled as a Birmingham street was sealed off on Saturday night.
The officers were sent to Staple Lodge Road in West Heath after what was described as an "assault".
No other details were available as of 9pm on Saturday, March 7.
But, in the only available update, West Midlands Police's firearms operations unit, said the investigation continued but there was no risk to the public.
Bus services were diverted and drivers told to avoid the area when the alarm was raised some hours earlier.
Unconfirmed witness reports said passengers were asked to leave buses near West Heath Park and at least one ambulance had been at the scene.
There were also suggestions of more police activity in nearby Kinlet Avenue, with video posted on social media showing what appeared to be unmarked police cars with emergency lights flashing.
The firearms team tweeted: " #TeamC supported @ResponseWMP at this incident. Delivered medical care to a male who had been assaulted. The investigation is ongoing and there is no risk to the public.
"A large cordon remains in place and ask for the public's support with this whilst we investigate."
It was the latest incident in a shocking weekend of violence across Birmingham and the Black Country which left five people hurt in four other, unrelated knife attacks .
As of around 8.30pm, a small cordon was in place by the entrance of West Heath Park. Two marked cars and an unmarked police car were blocking one side and another unmarked vehicle was within the cordon.
Several other police vehicles were placed at the other end of the cordon.
Drivers were told in a tweet from the West Midlands Roads information service: "Police incident on #StapleLodgeRoad in #WestHeath . Please avoid the area and use an alternative route."
And National Express West Midlands told passengers: "Diversion - 47 service is on a diversion. From City: Wychall Lane, The Fairway, Vardon Way, Rednal Rd, West Heath Island, Alvechurch Rd, West Heath Rd then normal line of route. To City: West Heath Rd, Alvechurch Rd, Rednal Rd, Vardon Way, The Fairway Right Wychall Lane."


birminghammail--2020-03-07--'We are down' - Fans of West Ham, Watford and Aston Villa's rivals make relegation claims

Aston Villa ’ s relegation rivals have been reacting to the latest results in the Premier League on Saturday .
Villa are not in action until Monday night , when they travel to the King Power Stadium to face Leicester City .
Saturday ’ s results mean Villa stay in 19th place in the league table , two points from safety but they do have two games in hand on their closest rivals .
Watford were beaten 1-0 by Crystal Palace thanks to a Jordan Ayew goal , while Norwich lost by the same scoreline to Sheffield United with Billy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ham were also beaten 1-0 by Arsenal , after Alexandre Lacazette had a goal awarded thanks to an intervention from VAR , while Bournemouth lost 2-1 to Liverpool in the lunchtime kick-off .
Here is a selection of fans from Watford , Bournemouth , West Ham and Norwich after their side ’ s defeats on Saturday .
Thomas Abmsn : “ This was a difficult fixture ; we did not play badly against a average palace side but our decision making was poor .
Could have nicked a vital draw but onto the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
We didn ’ t deserve to win the game , but I ’ m not sure we deserved to get beaten either .
These sorts of dropped points could make all the difference come May.
” Neil Gibbons : “ Try shooting when in the box , first half , even a miss hit might wrong foot the keeper , and our passing to each other is park football , yellow we play in yellow.
” Gary Eagles : “ Games against Man Utd , Liverpool and Palace , thought we 'd @ @ @ @ @ @ @ realistically .
Apart from who the points came from , that 's the haul we got .
Now crack on and avoid relegation , it 's in our hands.
” Jack William : “ So much negativity in this feed !
True fans need to stand up now and get behind our team !
Up the hornets !
” Sue Jenkins : “ Cherries always play really well , it 's just a shame that the other team always plays really , really well.
” Cindy Nurse : “ Wrong move with Simpson @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was on top defence , shame we didn ’ t have King today.
” Dave Day : “ Good game , despite the loss today .
The Cherries played really well , just a shame we handed them their goals.
” Joe Emery : “ Annoying that 2 mistakes led to both their goals , but I can proudly say each one of them players put in 100 % today !
If we play like that every week I ’ m sure we will be safe !
” Adam Moore : “ We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at least drew it .
But today was n't to be .
Proud of them.
” Christopher Howarth : “ Unlucky , we did n't deserve to lose , but that 's what we get for not taking our chances.
” Jason Harris : “ The better team lost today .
Really unfortunate , but I ’ ve been pleased with the team ’ s performance these past three matches.
” Luke Moseley : “ Having chance after chance is not good enough .
This is the worst Arsenal team in history and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ against them.
” Daniel Bergin : “ Need to take our chances should of been 3 up in the first half and another 2 in the second .
Gutted to be fair felt certain we would take something today.
” Mc Leung : “ We deserve a draw .
Antonio is role model , hard working , give 200 % on the pitch .
We need to improve a lot in attacking , we have to score to stay in the PL.
” Richard Henry : “ We are down now get ready @ @ @ @ @ @ @ small consultation a trip to Wembley before the drop.
” Gavin Gray : “ Not much between the teams considering that was a team at the bottom vs a team going for top 6 .
After a sloppy first half and tired players we should have still left with 1 or 3 points.
” Matthew Watson : “ It ’ s a real shame we didn ’ t get anything .
Made our mistakes in the first half , but we were the better team second half and if it wasn ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we could ’ ve got a draw at least .
I hope we give it a good go in the remaining games !
OTBC !
” Andy Jones : “ Our main focus has to be the cup now !
This has been a frustrating season .
I ’ d take even just a Wembley semi-final and another rocking season in the Champ !
” David Burman : “ We should n't give up until its mathematically impossible .
I remember West Brom escaping relegation on the last day of the season before @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ironically at our expense .
So , it can be done !
”

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get Villa transfer latest, team news, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get Villa transfer latest, team news, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox
Aston Villa’s relegation rivals have been reacting to the latest results in the Premier League on Saturday.
Villa are not in action until Monday night, when they travel to the King Power Stadium to face Leicester City.
Saturday’s results mean Villa stay in 19th place in the league table, two points from safety but they do have two games in hand on their closest rivals.
Watford were beaten 1-0 by Crystal Palace thanks to a Jordan Ayew goal, while Norwich lost by the same scoreline to Sheffield United with Billy Sharp netting the decisive strike.
West Ham were also beaten 1-0 by Arsenal, after Alexandre Lacazette had a goal awarded thanks to an intervention from VAR, while Bournemouth lost 2-1 to Liverpool in the lunchtime kick-off.
Here is a selection of fans from Watford, Bournemouth, West Ham and Norwich after their side’s defeats on Saturday.
WATFORD FANS
Thomas Abmsn: “This was a difficult fixture; we did not play badly against a average palace side but our decision making was poor. Could have nicked a vital draw but onto the next.”
John Roullier: “Frustrating. We didn’t deserve to win the game, but I’m not sure we deserved to get beaten either. These sorts of dropped points could make all the difference come May.”
Neil Gibbons: “Try shooting when in the box, first half, even a miss hit might wrong foot the keeper, and our passing to each other is park football, yellow we play in yellow.”
Gary Eagles: “Games against Man Utd, Liverpool and Palace, thought we'd come away from that with three points realistically. Apart from who the points came from, that's the haul we got. Now crack on and avoid relegation, it's in our hands.”
Jack William: “So much negativity in this feed! True fans need to stand up now and get behind our team! Up the hornets!”
BOURNEMOUTH FANS
Sue Jenkins: “Cherries always play really well, it's just a shame that the other team always plays really, really well.”
Cindy Nurse: “Wrong move with Simpson but well played Bournemouth otherwise, Ake was on top defence, shame we didn’t have King today.”
Dave Day: “Good game, despite the loss today. The Cherries played really well, just a shame we handed them their goals.”
Joe Emery: “Annoying that 2 mistakes led to both their goals, but I can proudly say each one of them players put in 100% today! If we play like that every week I’m sure we will be safe!”
Adam Moore: “We played really well. We should of at least drew it. But today wasn't to be. Proud of them.”
WEST HAM FANS
Christopher Howarth: “Unlucky, we didn't deserve to lose, but that's what we get for not taking our chances.”
Jason Harris: “The better team lost today. Really unfortunate, but I’ve been pleased with the team’s performance these past three matches.”
Luke Moseley: “Having chance after chance is not good enough. This is the worst Arsenal team in history and we couldn't even get a point against them.”
Daniel Bergin: “Need to take our chances should of been 3 up in the first half and another 2 in the second. Gutted to be fair felt certain we would take something today.”
Mc Leung: “We deserve a draw. Antonio is role model, hard working, give 200% on the pitch. We need to improve a lot in attacking, we have to score to stay in the PL.”
NORWICH FANS
Richard Henry: “We are down now get ready for life in championship, however a small consultation a trip to Wembley before the drop.”
Gavin Gray: “Not much between the teams considering that was a team at the bottom vs a team going for top 6. After a sloppy first half and tired players we should have still left with 1 or 3 points.”
Matthew Watson: “It’s a real shame we didn’t get anything. Made our mistakes in the first half, but we were the better team second half and if it wasn’t for their keeper making wonder saves, we could’ve got a draw at least. I hope we give it a good go in the remaining games! OTBC!”
Andy Jones: “Our main focus has to be the cup now! This has been a frustrating season. I’d take even just a Wembley semi-final and another rocking season in the Champ!”
David Burman: “We shouldn't give up until its mathematically impossible. I remember West Brom escaping relegation on the last day of the season before when they had been written off, ironically at our expense. So, it can be done!”


birminghammail--2020-03-07--'Suffering' - Pundit makes Jack Grealish claim involving Man City starlet

Former England winger Chris Waddle believes Manchester City midfielder Phil Foden is a better player than Aston Villa ’ s Jack Grealish .
Grealish and Foden went head-to-head in the Carabao Cup final last weekend , with the Man City youngster coming out on top after a man of the match display at Wembley Stadium .
The Villa captain has been a key player for Dean Smith ’ s side this season , netting seven goals and providing six assists in the Premier League .
Foden has had to settle for a place among the substitutes for the majority of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ win his first cap for the England senior team .
The 19-year-old faces competition from Grealish and Leicester City midfielder James Maddison for a place in Gareth Southgate ’ s squad for this summer ’ s European Championships .
Waddle - who played for the likes of Tottenham Hotspur , Newcastle , Marseille and Sheffield Wednesday in his career - feels Foden is more worthy of a call-up to the England squad than Grealish and Maddison .
“ I ’ d put Phil Foden in the England squad now and I don ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not ready , ” Waddle wrote in his column for The Racing Post .
“ I also don ’ t understand why he didn ’ t play at Sheffield Wednesday in the FA Cup just a few days after his man-of-the-match display against Aston Villa at Wembley .
“ I ’ d like to think that perhaps Pep Guardiola is actually paying him a compliment by keeping him back for the Manchester derby because Kevin De Bruyne is injured .
“ But I ’ d be playing him all the time because he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , confident and it isn ’ t as though he needs a rest .
“ There ’ s a lot of talk of Jack Grealish and James Maddison – but this kid ’ s as good as them if not better .
“ If he was playing week in , week out , he ’ d be in the England team , never mind the squad .
“ But it ’ s easy for Gareth Southgate not to pick him because he could argue that he ’ s not playing enough first-team football @ @ @ @ @ @ @ if he was playing more at City he ’ d be ahead of Grealish and Maddison but he ’ s suffering by being at a club full of superstars .
“ He must have the patience of a saint .
If I was him I ’ d be knocking Guardiola ’ s door off its hinges demanding to play because it ’ s quite possible that this lack of playing time will cost him a place at Euro 2020 and that would be a real shame .
”

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get Villa transfer latest, team news, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get Villa transfer latest, team news, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox
Former England winger Chris Waddle believes Manchester City midfielder Phil Foden is a better player than Aston Villa ’s Jack Grealish.
Grealish and Foden went head-to-head in the Carabao Cup final last weekend, with the Man City youngster coming out on top after a man of the match display at Wembley Stadium.
The Villa captain has been a key player for Dean Smith’s side this season, netting seven goals and providing six assists in the Premier League.
Foden has had to settle for a place among the substitutes for the majority of the campaign, and is yet to win his first cap for the England senior team.
The 19-year-old faces competition from Grealish and Leicester City midfielder James Maddison for a place in Gareth Southgate’s squad for this summer’s European Championships.
Waddle - who played for the likes of Tottenham Hotspur, Newcastle, Marseille and Sheffield Wednesday in his career - feels Foden is more worthy of a call-up to the England squad than Grealish and Maddison.
“I’d put Phil Foden in the England squad now and I don’t understand people saying he’s not ready,” Waddle wrote in his column for The Racing Post.
“I also don’t understand why he didn’t play at Sheffield Wednesday in the FA Cup just a few days after his man-of-the-match display against Aston Villa at Wembley.
“I’d like to think that perhaps Pep Guardiola is actually paying him a compliment by keeping him back for the Manchester derby because Kevin De Bruyne is injured.
“But I’d be playing him all the time because he’s full of energy, young, confident and it isn’t as though he needs a rest.
“There’s a lot of talk of Jack Grealish and James Maddison – but this kid’s as good as them if not better.
“If he was playing week in, week out, he’d be in the England team, never mind the squad.
“But it’s easy for Gareth Southgate not to pick him because he could argue that he’s not playing enough first-team football.
“There is no doubt that if he was playing more at City he’d be ahead of Grealish and Maddison but he’s suffering by being at a club full of superstars.
“He must have the patience of a saint. If I was him I’d be knocking Guardiola’s door off its hinges demanding to play because it’s quite possible that this lack of playing time will cost him a place at Euro 2020 and that would be a real shame.”


birminghammail--2020-03-07--Live updates: Armed police in Staple Lodge Road amid major police incident

Armed police are on a Birmingham street amid a major investigation which saw buses diverted and drivers told to stay away .
Officers from West Midlands Police 's firearms operations unit were in Staple Lodge Road in West Heath .
A large part of the road was sealed off for a number of hours on Saturday evening , March 7 .
The unit said its officers were supporting an assault victim and stressed there was no risk to the public .
Earlier , video shows what appeared to be unmarked police cars at a nearby location .
There were also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Drivers were told to find alternative routes and the National Express West Midlands No.47 service was diverted away from the area .
The West Midlands Road Twitter service tweeted : `` Police incident on # StapleLodgeRoad in # WestHeath .
Please avoid the area and use an alternative route . ''
One wrote on Facebook that bus passengers were being asked to leave services in Staple Lodge Road , next to West Heath Park .
They added : `` All traffic stopped Lots of police and police tape . ''
BirminghamLive is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 101 service in a bid to obtain more information .
This is a breaking news story and we will be carrying full updates below , plus reaction .
Follow us on Twitter and Facebook for the latest news .
We are also on Instagram .
If you are on the go , the Birmingham Live app helps bring you closer to the latest news where you live .
Available on iPhone and Android , the app can be tailor made to bring you the latest on what matters to you .
Our push @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you first .
Download it on iPhone and Android .

Armed police are on a Birmingham street amid a major investigation which saw buses diverted and drivers told to stay away.
Officers from West Midlands Police's firearms operations unit were in Staple Lodge Road in West Heath.
A large part of the road was sealed off for a number of hours on Saturday evening, March 7.
The unit said its officers were supporting an assault victim and stressed there was no risk to the public.
Earlier, video shows what appeared to be unmarked police cars at a nearby location. There were also unconfirmed reports of paramedics at the scene.
Drivers were told to find alternative routes and the National Express West Midlands No.47 service was diverted away from the area.
The West Midlands Road Twitter service tweeted: "Police incident on #StapleLodgeRoad in #WestHeath . Please avoid the area and use an alternative route."
One wrote on Facebook that bus passengers were being asked to leave services in Staple Lodge Road, next to West Heath Park. They added: "All traffic stopped Lots of police and police tape."
BirminghamLive is on hold with West Midlands Police's 101 service in a bid to obtain more information.
This is a breaking news story and we will be carrying full updates below, plus reaction.
Follow us on Twitter and Facebook for the latest news. We are also on Instagram.
If you are on the go, the Birmingham Live app helps bring you closer to the latest news where you live.
Available on iPhone and Android , the app can be tailor made to bring you the latest on what matters to you.
Our push notifications help highlight the biggest stories to you first.
Download it on iPhone and Android .


birminghammail--2020-03-07--Aston Villa transfer news: Wesley injury update, Man City and Arsenal chase starlet

Hello and welcome to Saturday 's LIVE Aston Villa coverage from BirminghamLive .
We will be keeping you up to @ @ @ @ @ news and views from Villa Park as Dean Smith 's side prepare for the Premier @ @ @ @ @ on Monday night ( 8pm ) .
After their Carabao Cup final defeat to Manchester @ @ @ @ @ Villa 's season is now solely concentrated on surviving in the Premier League .
They @ @ @ @ @ two points from safety and have a game in hand over their relegation rivals as @ @ @ @ @ outing last weekend .
Villa fans will be watching today 's results elsewhere in earnest @ @ @ @ @ and West Ham United all in action .
So make sure you follow all the @ @ @ @ @ below ...

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Richard Cusack, Mark Wakefield)

Hello and welcome to Tuesday's LIVE Aston Villa coverage from BirminghamLive.
It was another weekend without a fixture for Dean Smith's side as coronavirus continues to spread across the UK.
Games were initially suspended until April 4 but after a meeting between league bosses, it was announced last week football is suspended until the end of April.
We'll keep you up to date on the latest developments surrounding the resumption of the league, as well as any other Villa news, updates and transfer rumours - as well as how COVID-19 is affecting fans.
So make sure you follow all the action on today's blog below...


birminghammail--2020-03-07--'Top 4 is gone' - Wolves fans not impressed as struggling Brighton frustrate Nuno's men

Wolves ' top-four hopes suffered a damaging blow after they were held to a dull 0-0 draw by Brighton at Molineux this afternoon .
Nuno Espirito Santo 's side would have moved fourth in the Premier League table with a two-goal victory over the Seagulls , but were left frustrated .
Wolves still climbed to fifth , having played a game more than Manchester United , but trail Chelsea by two points with the Blues also having a game in hand .
And on a day of few chances , it was relegation strugglers Brighton who wasted the best chance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fans have had plenty to cheer over the past couple of seasons , and while some of them were urging patience come the final whistle , plenty were seething at their side 's lacklustre pderformance .
This is what they have been saying on social media ... Adama Is Slow : Bogey team or not , if you do n't have a shot on target before 73 odd minutes you do n't deserve to win .
Knew it would be a frustrating one today , but it ’ s a missed opportunity .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and we have to make it count .
Twilight Werewolves : Dendoncker should have scored , should n't be blazing over the bar from there .
Alex : Again , we do n't take our chances .
Top 4 is gone .
Scott Patterson : Thank God that 's over .
Woeful game .
Adam : Boly and Patricio did well… that 's about it .
Tyler : Dreadful performance .
Why was neves brought off ?
35 Year A Wolf : Missed opportunity there , lads .
We lack that creative @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Kevin Bernard : They have totally let themselves down for a top-4 challenge after what has been a fantastic season.. such a shame .
Hardeep : Oh well , you can ’ t win ’ em all .
Manny : Typical wolves , can ’ t break them teams down .
Brighton looked like the side challenging for the top 4 .
Ball retention was awful and no creativity going forward .
Brody Wilson : The people come out the rocks for a moan .
Levi Jordan : Under no circumstances should we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ just to pack our midfield .
The 3-5-2 leaves us so devoid of creativity and unless we get an early goal is pretty much pointless in an attacking sense .
Northern wolf : Worst game of football I ’ ve ever seen ... but at least we are fifth .
Liam Baddams : You have these games .
Can ’ t be perfect all the time , especially in a long season like this… move on .
Stuart : It 's not the end of the world .
Clean sheet , still in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ n't wait for Thursday .
Jono Handley : That was dreadful , and ca n't use the old “ tired ” excuse today either .
Just did n't want to attack .
Raul might as well just sat on the sidelines .
Hayden Mills : Do the hard work at Tottenham last week then follow it up with a pathetic performance against a bottom team again .
Taran : Wolves are fifth and in the round of 16 of the Europa League .
Chill out .

The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel
We have more newsletters
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get Wolves transfer latest, team news, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox
We have more newsletters
Thank you for subscribing!
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get Wolves transfer latest, team news, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox
Wolves' top-four hopes suffered a damaging blow after they were held to a dull 0-0 draw by Brighton at Molineux this afternoon.
Nuno Espirito Santo's side would have moved fourth in the Premier League table with a two-goal victory over the Seagulls, but were left frustrated.
Wolves still climbed to fifth, having played a game more than Manchester United, but trail Chelsea by two points with the Blues also having a game in hand.
And on a day of few chances, it was relegation strugglers Brighton who wasted the best chance when Solly March shot over.
Wolves fans have had plenty to cheer over the past couple of seasons, and while some of them were urging patience come the final whistle, plenty were seething at their side's lacklustre pderformance.
This is what they have been saying on social media...
Adama Is Slow: Bogey team or not, if you don't have a shot on target before 73 odd minutes you don't deserve to win. Knew it would be a frustrating one today, but it’s a missed opportunity. Very good run of fixtures coming up, and we have to make it count.
Twilight Werewolves: Dendoncker should have scored, shouldn't be blazing over the bar from there.
Alex: Again, we don't take our chances. Top 4 is gone.
Scott Patterson: Thank God that's over. Woeful game.
Adam: Boly and Patricio did well… that's about it.
Tyler: Dreadful performance. Why was neves brought off?
35 Year A Wolf: Missed opportunity there, lads. We lack that creative midfielder to break teams down imo.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
Kevin Bernard: They have totally let themselves down for a top-4 challenge after what has been a fantastic season.. such a shame.
Hardeep: Oh well, you can’t win ’em all.
Manny: Typical wolves, can’t break them teams down. Brighton looked like the side challenging for the top 4. Ball retention was awful and no creativity going forward.
Brody Wilson: The people come out the rocks for a moan.
Levi Jordan: Under no circumstances should we be benching Traore against sides like them just to pack our midfield. The 3-5-2 leaves us so devoid of creativity and unless we get an early goal is pretty much pointless in an attacking sense.
Northern wolf: Worst game of football I’ve ever seen... but at least we are fifth.
Liam Baddams: You have these games. Can’t be perfect all the time, especially in a long season like this… move on.
Stuart: It's not the end of the world. Clean sheet, still in the mix and no Injuries. Can't wait for Thursday.
Jono Handley: That was dreadful, and can't use the old “tired” excuse today either. Just didn't want to attack. Raul might as well just sat on the sidelines.
Hayden Mills: Do the hard work at Tottenham last week then follow it up with a pathetic performance against a bottom team again.
Taran: Wolves are fifth and in the round of 16 of the Europa League. Chill out.


birminghammail--2020-03-07--Aston Villa fans react as Watford & Bournemouth defeats present relegation lifeline

Aston Villa fans have been reacting to this afternoon ’ s results in the Premier League .
Villa are not in action themselves until Monday night , when they travel to the King Power Stadium to face Leicester City .
Saturday ’ s matches saw Villa ’ s relegation rivals in action , with all of them suffering defeats .
Watford were beaten 1-0 by Crystal Palace thanks to a Jordan Ayew goal , while Norwich lost by the same scoreline to Sheffield United with Billy Sharp netting the decisive strike .
West Ham were also beaten 1-0 by Arsenal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ awarded thanks to an intervention from VAR , while Bournemouth lost 2-1 to Liverpool in the lunchtime kick-off .
These results mean Villa stay in 19th place in the league table , two points from safety but they do have two games in hand on their closest rivals .
Villa fans took to social media to express their thoughts and emotions on the opportunity presented to Dean Smith ’ s side .
Here is a selection of what they had to say .
Luke Marshall : “ We needed two of the 4 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to lose and the other draw is huge.
” Rich : “ As it stands , 2 games in hand ... ..
Win both and we go 4 clear ... .. Now or never lads.
” Matt King : “ Two games in hand , a win on Monday would be M.A.S.S.I.V.E.
” B6 Dave : “ After this weekends results we 've been given ANOTHER massive opportunity to get out of the relegation zone .
The amount of chances we 've had to pull clear and not taken them .
If we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 100 % only have ourselves to blame.
” The Religion AVFC : “ Two games in hand if we win both we go 15th .
We NEED to win these and pull away a little.
” Matthew Emery : “ Pretty much every result has gone in Villa 's favour today .
Great chance tomorrow to climb out of the relegation zone and still have a game in hand.
” DaranDeRoiste : “ Decent set of results for us today .
Three points Mon night would be massive right now .
Shift a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ teams around us .
”

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get Villa transfer latest, team news, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get Villa transfer latest, team news, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox
Aston Villa fans have been reacting to this afternoon’s results in the Premier League.
Villa are not in action themselves until Monday night, when they travel to the King Power Stadium to face Leicester City.
Saturday’s matches saw Villa’s relegation rivals in action, with all of them suffering defeats.
Watford were beaten 1-0 by Crystal Palace thanks to a Jordan Ayew goal, while Norwich lost by the same scoreline to Sheffield United with Billy Sharp netting the decisive strike.
West Ham were also beaten 1-0 by Arsenal, after Alexandre Lacazette had a goal awarded thanks to an intervention from VAR, while Bournemouth lost 2-1 to Liverpool in the lunchtime kick-off.
These results mean Villa stay in 19th place in the league table, two points from safety but they do have two games in hand on their closest rivals.
Villa fans took to social media to express their thoughts and emotions on the opportunity presented to Dean Smith’s side.
Here is a selection of what they had to say.
Luke Marshall: “We needed two of the 4 teams above us to lose for 3 to lose and the other draw is huge.”
Rich: “As it stands, 2 games in hand..... Win both and we go 4 clear..... Now or never lads.”
Matt King: “Two games in hand, a win on Monday would be M.A.S.S.I.V.E.”
B6 Dave: “After this weekends results we've been given ANOTHER massive opportunity to get out of the relegation zone. The amount of chances we've had to pull clear and not taken them. If we do end up getting relegated we'll 100% only have ourselves to blame.”
The Religion AVFC: “Two games in hand if we win both we go 15th. We NEED to win these and pull away a little.”
Matthew Emery: “Pretty much every result has gone in Villa's favour today. Great chance tomorrow to climb out of the relegation zone and still have a game in hand.”
DaranDeRoiste: “Decent set of results for us today. Three points Mon night would be massive right now. Shift a lot of the pressure on to the teams around us.”


birminghammail--2020-03-07--'Very confident' - Pep Clotet reacts to Birmingham City avoiding points deduction over EFL charge

Birmingham City were confident they would not suffer a second points deduction in as many seasons .
That ’ s according to head coach Pep Clotet who expressed his happiness that Blues had been found not guilty of breaching an EFL-imposed business plan .
The news came through on Friday night , throwing out the EFL ’ s argument the club had failed to sufficiently cut their losses during the 2018/2019 campaign .
That came after they had been docked nine points for falling foul of Profitability & Sustainability regulations .
“ I am relieved that there is no points @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The club was always very confident that would be the outcome but you always take it as a big relief because you don ’ t want to be mixed with bigger problems that it would mean .
“ It wasn ’ t on the players ’ minds , we all took it for granted that a deduction would not happen , it would have been a blow .
“ It means the end of the season is a bit more straightforward , we know where we are , we want to get to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ try to win as many games as possible until the end .
”

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
Pep Clotet has revealed he was always confident Birmingham City would not be deducted points - but is relieved that his side won't be dragged into a relegation battle.
The Blues boss expressed his happiness after the club were found not guilty of breaching an EFL-imposed business plan. A decision which should ensure they can enjoy a relatively, stress-free end of season run-in.
The news came through on Friday night, throwing out the EFL’s argument the club had failed to sufficiently cut their losses during the 2018/2019 campaign.
That came after they had been docked nine points for falling foul of Profitability & Sustainability regulations.
“I am relieved that there is no points deduction,” Clotet said.
“The club was always very confident that would be the outcome but you always take it as a big relief because you don’t want to be mixed with bigger problems that it would mean."
Clotet was speaking after his side were beaten 3-1 by Reading at St Andrew's, a result which ended their long, unbeaten run in the league. Following the defeat, Blues find themselves in 16th place in the Championship, eight points ahead of the relegation zone and Clotet admitted it was a relief that the gap wouldn't be narrowed by a potential deduction.
He added: “It wasn’t on the players’ minds, we all took it for granted that a deduction would not happen, it would have been a blow.
“It means the end of the season is a bit more straightforward, we know where we are, we want to get to 50 points as soon as possible and try to win as many games as possible until the end.”


birminghammail--2020-03-07--'Ridiculously strong' - Steve Cooper's verdict as West Brom are held by Swansea

Steve Cooper was pleased with what he saw as his young Swansea City side held what he deems to be a ‘ ridiculously strong ’ West Brom side to a goalless draw on Saturday .
Albion only managed one shot on target as their Welsh hosts kept them at bay without too much fuss , and it was a point that cost them their place as the Championship ’ s number one side as ten matches to go became nine in the fixture run-in .
For the Swans , it keeps their play-off hopes well and truly alive ; they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but they ’ re only three points behind an out of sorts Preston North End who are currently clinging onto the final play-off position for dear life .
Cooper saw signs for encouragement against an Albion outfit who remain six clear of Fulham in third , and admits on another day his side might ’ ve nicked it .
“ I think that we are never going to be 100 % happy drawing a game at home , but I think we need to respect the game it was - opposition , top @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , massive investment , ” Cooper claimed .
“ They had large parts of the game where they had more of the ball , but they ’ ve had one shot on goal .
Clean sheet ... if Jay [ Fulton ] scores , then it ’ s like ‘ what a result !
’ “ I ’ m not gon na sing and dance about drawing , but there are a lot of positives which will help us in the run-in .
“ They ’ re the top scorers in the league @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , but they ’ ve gone over the bar for a reason - we ’ ve forced them into that .
Everyone did their job defensively .
I never thought we were ever under the cosh , they had some good moments but we had the best moments .
We didn ’ t capitalise on them .
“ We should be very optimistic from what we saw today for the remaining nine games .
”

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Steve Cooper was pleased with what he saw as his young Swansea City side held what he deems to be a ‘ridiculously strong’ West Brom side to a goalless draw on Saturday.
Albion only managed one shot on target as their Welsh hosts kept them at bay without too much fuss, and it was a point that cost them their place as the Championship’s number one side as ten matches to go became nine in the fixture run-in.
For the Swans, it keeps their play-off hopes well and truly alive; they’re sitting down in eleventh, but they’re only three points behind an out of sorts Preston North End who are currently clinging onto the final play-off position for dear life.
Cooper saw signs for encouragement against an Albion outfit who remain six clear of Fulham in third, and admits on another day his side might’ve nicked it.
“I think that we are never going to be 100% happy drawing a game at home, but I think we need to respect the game it was - opposition, top of the league, ridiculously strong squad, massive investment,” Cooper claimed.
“They had large parts of the game where they had more of the ball, but they’ve had one shot on goal. Clean sheet...if Jay [Fulton] scores, then it’s like ‘what a result!’
“I’m not gonna sing and dance about drawing, but there are a lot of positives which will help us in the run-in.
“They’re the top scorers in the league. They had a couple late on, but they’ve gone over the bar for a reason - we’ve forced them into that. Everyone did their job defensively. I never thought we were ever under the cosh, they had some good moments but we had the best moments. We didn’t capitalise on them.
“We should be very optimistic from what we saw today for the remaining nine games.”


birminghammail--2020-03-07--Slaven Bilic's reaction as Leeds United leapfrog West Brom but gap remains the same

Slaven Bilic isn ’ t at all concerned by the switching of places between his West Brom side and Leeds United at the top of the Championship table after the Baggies were held to a goalless draw at Swansea City .
The Whites won their fifth game in a row against Huddersfield to leapfrog Albion onto the summit , but Albion themselves - who hit the 70 point mark at the Liberty Stadium with nine matches to play - remain six clear of chasing Fulham , who were held earlier in the day by Bristol City .
Weekends where Albion @ @ @ @ @ @ @ themselves as the league leaders have been few and far between since September , but Bilic isn ’ t fazed by such movement at this point in the campaign .
Indeed it appears to be the size of a gap that Bilic is content with at this crucial stage in the season ; it ’ s not too small which might lead to panic , neither is it big enough that could encourage complacency .
“ I would love to be in top spot but , no , it doesn ’ t worry @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ The results , apart from Leeds and Brentford , they were okay .
“ With Fulham and with Forest , because that affects your motivation of the point at this stage of the season .
“ Considering all that , the bigger picture , this was a good point .
We have one less game go .
The gap is a very balanced one .
The gap is significant , the gap is big enough for you not to panic .
“ If after 10 minutes it is 0-0 , there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gap is good but it is well balanced .
If you want to follow all things Albion via social media then this is the place to find out how .
Transfers , injuries , match-day videos and photos and the thoughts of the manager and his players , we ’ ve got you covered .
We ’ ll be bringing the very latest throughout the week and around the clock .
Make sure you keep yourself updated with our social media accounts ... Twitter : All the latest news as it happens For @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , analysis and transfer gossip , click here You can follow our reporter Joseph Chapman on Twitter , and his email address is Joseph.Chapman @ reachplc.com “ It gives you more belief , more chances .
But at the same time , it keeps you on your toes , it keeps you double focused and it makes you aware you can lose it in a split second and find yourself in a situation where the gap is smaller .
“ It shows , altogether , we are in a good situation , especially @ @ @ @ @ @ @ game what they have to do better to win.
” The game itself in South Wales passed without too many significant moments by way of goal-mouth action .
For the second successive league game , Albion failed to find the net and Bilic conceded that the outcome - Albion ’ s first goalless draw since April last year - reflected how the game played out .
“ If someone had told me Swansea v West Brom , the way they were playing , the philosophies this season , would finish 0-0 with very @ @ @ @ @ @ @ say no way , ” Bilic added .
“ Especially that the game wasn ’ t compact , it was very stretched .
They wanted to win and so did we .
It was a strange game .
Simply we weren ’ t good enough in the final third .
“ We didn ’ t deserve to win it so the result is very fair .
”

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Slaven Bilic isn’t at all concerned by the switching of places between his West Brom side and Leeds United at the top of the Championship table after the Baggies were held to a goalless draw at Swansea City.
The Whites won their fifth game in a row against Huddersfield to leapfrog Albion onto the summit, but Albion themselves - who hit the 70 point mark at the Liberty Stadium with nine matches to play - remain six clear of chasing Fulham, who were held earlier in the day by Bristol City.
Weekends where Albion haven’t been able to identify themselves as the league leaders have been few and far between since September, but Bilic isn’t fazed by such movement at this point in the campaign.
Indeed it appears to be the size of a gap that Bilic is content with at this crucial stage in the season; it’s not too small which might lead to panic, neither is it big enough that could encourage complacency.
“I would love to be in top spot but, no, it doesn’t worry me,” he calmly explained post-match. “The results, apart from Leeds and Brentford, they were okay.
“With Fulham and with Forest, because that affects your motivation of the point at this stage of the season.
“Considering all that, the bigger picture, this was a good point. We have one less game go. The gap is a very balanced one. The gap is significant, the gap is big enough for you not to panic.
“If after 10 minutes it is 0-0, there is no need to panic. The gap is good but it is well balanced.
“It gives you more belief, more chances. But at the same time, it keeps you on your toes, it keeps you double focused and it makes you aware you can lose it in a split second and find yourself in a situation where the gap is smaller.
“It shows, altogether, we are in a good situation, especially when all the guys know after a game what they have to do better to win.”
The game itself in South Wales passed without too many significant moments by way of goal-mouth action.
For the second successive league game, Albion failed to find the net and Bilic conceded that the outcome - Albion’s first goalless draw since April last year - reflected how the game played out.
“If someone had told me Swansea v West Brom, the way they were playing, the philosophies this season, would finish 0-0 with very few chances and shots, I would say no way,” Bilic added.
“Especially that the game wasn’t compact, it was very stretched. They wanted to win and so did we. It was a strange game. Simply we weren’t good enough in the final third.
“We didn’t deserve to win it so the result is very fair.”


birminghammail--2020-03-07--Video emerges revealing injury update for stricken Aston Villa striker

A video has emerged showing Aston Villa striker Wesley building up his fitness on his recovery from a long-term injury .
The Brazilian forward , who moved to B6 last summer from Club Brugge , suffered an ACL injury during Villa ’ s 2-1 victory away at Burnley on New Year ’ s Day .
Wesley landed awkwardly following a challenge with Ben Mee in the Burnley box late on in the second half of the clash at Turf Moor .
The injury led to Villa dipping into the transfer market to sign Mbwana Samatta from Belgian club Genk during @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has emerged on Instagram showing Wesley going through his rehabilitation at Bodymoor Heath training ground , as he bids to recover from the injury .
The video shows the 23-year-old with his right knee in a brace , as he does various exercises to test how he is progressing in his recovery .
It has already been confirmed that Wesley will miss the rest of the season due to the injury , after scoring six goals in 22 appearances in all competitions .
Villa are battling to avoid relegation from the Premier League @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and two points from safety with two games in hand on their closest challengers .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get Villa transfer latest, team news, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get Villa transfer latest, team news, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox
A video has emerged showing Aston Villa striker Wesley building up his fitness on his recovery from a long-term injury.
The Brazilian forward, who moved to B6 last summer from Club Brugge, suffered an ACL injury during Villa’s 2-1 victory away at Burnley on New Year’s Day.
Wesley landed awkwardly following a challenge with Ben Mee in the Burnley box late on in the second half of the clash at Turf Moor.
The injury led to Villa dipping into the transfer market to sign Mbwana Samatta from Belgian club Genk during the January window.
Now a video has emerged on Instagram showing Wesley going through his rehabilitation at Bodymoor Heath training ground, as he bids to recover from the injury.
The video shows the 23-year-old with his right knee in a brace, as he does various exercises to test how he is progressing in his recovery.
It has already been confirmed that Wesley will miss the rest of the season due to the injury, after scoring six goals in 22 appearances in all competitions.
Villa are battling to avoid relegation from the Premier League, and currently lie in 19th place and two points from safety with two games in hand on their closest challengers.


birminghammail--2020-03-07--Midlands rocked by a night of terror as five hurt in four knife attacks in less than 12 hours

The Midlands was rocked by a night of violence after five people were injured in four separate knife attacks .
The violence began when two men were slashed with knives after a massive brawl broke out on a residential street in Smethwick .
Police sealed off Stony Lane in Smethwick just after 7.30pm on Friday , March 6 , after a 21-year-old was stabbed in the back and a second victim , 31 , was slashed on the hand .
Just over an hour later , a teenager was stabbed in the neck minutes after buying sweets , a stunned @ @ @ @ @ @ @ boy was knifed in Duddeston Mill Road in Nechells at around 9pm .
He was said to have staggered back into Kash 's Vauxhall Food Store , where he had earlier been served , and a woman gave emergency first aid until paramedics arrived .
His injuries were not believed to be life-changing or life threatening .
And the violence continued in the early hours of Sunday , March 7 .
A mum-of-two was allegedly stabbed in the head as three burglars raided her home in Murcroft Road , Stourbridge .
It was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the thieves demanded cash at 3.30am .
Finally , a man in his 20s was stabbed in the neck and chest in Church Vale , Handsworth at around 5.30am .
He was taken to hospital with injuries not thought to be life-threatening .
Four men , aged 22 , 27 , 33 and 43 , were arrested and remained in police custody in connection with the incident .
The attacks are the latest in a seemingly never-ending sprial of knife crime across the West Midlands .
Figures released under the Freedom of Information @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a day were being recorded on the region 's streets in the first ten months of 2019 .
West Midlands Police it had logged 22,825 crimes involving a knife or sharp instrument in the last five years .
The force provided the statistics in response to a request from the Liberal Democrats , who called the situation a `` national emergency '' and called for more powers for officers .

The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel
We have more newsletters
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Stay in the know. Share your email to get all the latest Court and Crime news from Birmingham Live directly to your inbox
We have more newsletters
Thank you for subscribing!
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Stay in the know. Share your email to get all the latest Court and Crime news from Birmingham Live directly to your inbox
The Midlands was rocked by a night of violence after five people were injured in four separate knife attacks.
The violence began when two men were slashed with knives after a massive brawl broke out on a residential street in Smethwick.
Police sealed off Stony Lane in Smethwick just after 7.30pm on Friday, March 6, after a 21-year-old was stabbed in the back and a second victim, 31, was slashed on the hand.
Just over an hour later, a teenager was stabbed in the neck minutes after buying sweets, a stunned trader told Birmingham Live.
The 16-year-old boy was knifed in Duddeston Mill Road in Nechells at around 9pm.
He was said to have staggered back into Kash's Vauxhall Food Store, where he had earlier been served, and a woman gave emergency first aid until paramedics arrived.
His injuries were not believed to be life-changing or life threatening.
And the violence continued in the early hours of Sunday, March 7.
A mum-of-two was allegedly stabbed in the head as three burglars raided her home in Murcroft Road, Stourbridge.
It was believed her partner was also attacked as the thieves demanded cash at 3.30am.
Finally, a man in his 20s was stabbed in the neck and chest in Church Vale, Handsworth at around 5.30am.
He was taken to hospital with injuries not thought to be life-threatening.
Four men, aged 22, 27, 33 and 43, were arrested and remained in police custody in connection with the incident.
The attacks are the latest in a seemingly never-ending sprial of knife crime across the West Midlands.
Figures released under the Freedom of Information Act last October showed 14 knife crimes a day were being recorded on the region's streets in the first ten months of 2019 .
West Midlands Police it had logged 22,825 crimes involving a knife or sharp instrument in the last five years.
The force provided the statistics in response to a request from the Liberal Democrats, who called the situation a "national emergency" and called for more powers for officers.


birminghammail--2020-03-07--'Unbelievable' - Pep Clotet's referee rant as Birmingham City beaten by Reading

Pep Clotet insists Birmingham City should have been awarded a second half penalty that could have changed the course of today ’ s 3-1 loss to Reading .
Blues were trailing 2-1 but pushing the Royals back when Jude Bellingham looked to have his shirt pulled by Matt Miazga in the 71st minute .
Referee Andy Davies waved away the hosts ’ appeals as the Bellingham ran to the assistant referee and the Blues bench exhorted the fourth official after what looked like a clear tug by the Reading defender .
Head coach Clotet was both outraged and resigned to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ team .
Blues have been awarded just two penalties this season - and none since Boxing Day .
“ When it comes to the decisions what is unbelievable is we keep talking about this every game , ” Clotet said .
“ I think Jude Bellingham received a penalty , I saw it clear from where I was .
“ If I had been where the referee was I would have seen it even clearer , if I would have been where the linesman was I would have seen it even clear .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ my mind ?
Well , we are likely not to get it because it is the same every week .
“ I am just done talking about , it ’ s clear , the numbers speak for themselves.
” He was also unhappy that Lukas Jutkiewicz was not given more protection by the official as he came up against this former team-mate - and close friend - Michael Morrison .
“ He is fouled every time – and he never gets a foul .
It is the same in every game , I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ received for us in the first half , it wouldn ’ t have been many .
“ Today , unfortunately , we saw something we shouldn ’ t be seeing at this level .
One in the first half was a very clear one – and in the second half as well with Dan Crowley.
” Blues took the lead through Scott Hogan but were pegged back as Miazga , Yakou Meite and Pele gave the visitors a 3-1 victory .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
Pep Clotet insists Birmingham City should have been awarded a second half penalty that could have changed the course of today’s 3-1 loss to Reading.
Blues were trailing 2-1 but pushing the Royals back when Jude Bellingham looked to have his shirt pulled by Matt Miazga in the 71st minute.
Referee Andy Davies waved away the hosts’ appeals as the Bellingham ran to the assistant referee and the Blues bench exhorted the fourth official after what looked like a clear tug by the Reading defender.
Head coach Clotet was both outraged and resigned to the fact the decision went against his team.
Blues have been awarded just two penalties this season - and none since Boxing Day.
“When it comes to the decisions what is unbelievable is we keep talking about this every game,” Clotet said.
“I think Jude Bellingham received a penalty, I saw it clear from where I was.
“If I had been where the referee was I would have seen it even clearer, if I would have been where the linesman was I would have seen it even clear.
“What popped into the back of my mind? Well, we are likely not to get it because it is the same every week.
“I am just done talking about, it’s clear, the numbers speak for themselves.”
He was also unhappy that Lukas Jutkiewicz was not given more protection by the official as he came up against this former team-mate - and close friend - Michael Morrison.
“He is fouled every time – and he never gets a foul. It is the same in every game, I should be counting how many fouls we received for us in the first half, it wouldn’t have been many.
“Today, unfortunately, we saw something we shouldn’t be seeing at this level. One in the first half was a very clear one – and in the second half as well with Dan Crowley.”
Blues took the lead through Scott Hogan but were pegged back as Miazga, Yakou Meite and Pele gave the visitors a 3-1 victory.


birminghammail--2020-03-07--'Shocking display' - Birmingham City fans raging at one man after defeat to Reading

Reading produced a stunning comeback to end Birmingham City 's 10-match unbeaten run in the Sky Bet Championship with a 3-1 win at St Andrew 's .
Matt Miazga was at fault as Scott Hogan put Birmingham ahead in the sixth minute with his seventh goal in eight games since arriving on loan from Aston Villa .
But the on-loan Chelsea centre back made amends when he equalised seven minutes after the break before Yakou Meite 's 12th goal of the season in the 56th minute then substitute Judilson Gomes sealed victory for Mark Bowen 's side three minutes from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for Birmingham in the first half and Lukas Jutkiewicz headed over in the second , while Gary Gardner should have done better with two efforts after the break .
For Blues fans , it was a case of disappointment in their team - and referee Andy Davies for his performance .
Birmingham were good value for their early lead .
Hogan showed a real poacher 's instinct to send a looping header over goalkeeper Rafael Cabral after latching on to Miazga 's poor back header from Marc Roberts 's long ball forward .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the 17th minute , blazing over at the far post from Jutkiewicz 's cross .
Shortly after half-time , Blues missed another chance to have made it 2-0 , when the unmarked Jutkiewicz got too much on his header from Bellingham 's free kick and the ball floated harmlessly over the bar .
Reading made Blues pay by equalising three minutes later .
Miazga met Andy Rinomhota 's right-wing cross full on the volley from 10 yards , giving goalkeeper Lee Camp no chance in the Blues goal for his second goal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ game on its head by taking the lead shortly before the hour mark .
Meite got across Pedersen to meet John Swift 's deep free kick to glance home a powerful downward header from seven yards out .
Gardner forced Cabral into routine saves from his 25-yard drive then a glancing header .
But Reading hit Blues on the break with a third goal as Gomes raced away on the counter-attack before coolly curling low past Camp .

We have more newsletters
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
We have more newsletters
Thank you for subscribing!
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
Reading produced a stunning comeback to end Birmingham City's 10-match unbeaten run in the Sky Bet Championship with a 3-1 win at St Andrew's.
Matt Miazga was at fault as Scott Hogan put Birmingham ahead in the sixth minute with his seventh goal in eight games since arriving on loan from Aston Villa.
But the on-loan Chelsea centre back made amends when he equalised seven minutes after the break before Yakou Meite's 12th goal of the season in the 56th minute then substitute Judilson Gomes sealed victory for Mark Bowen's side three minutes from time.
Hogan produced a glaring miss for Birmingham in the first half and Lukas Jutkiewicz headed over in the second, while Gary Gardner should have done better with two efforts after the break.
For Blues fans, it was a case of disappointment in their team - and referee Andy Davies for his performance.
Birmingham were good value for their early lead. Hogan showed a real poacher's instinct to send a looping header over goalkeeper Rafael Cabral after latching on to Miazga's poor back header from Marc Roberts's long ball forward.
Hogan was guilty of a huge miss in the 17th minute, blazing over at the far post from Jutkiewicz's cross.
Shortly after half-time, Blues missed another chance to have made it 2-0, when the unmarked Jutkiewicz got too much on his header from Bellingham's free kick and the ball floated harmlessly over the bar.
Reading made Blues pay by equalising three minutes later.
Miazga met Andy Rinomhota's right-wing cross full on the volley from 10 yards, giving goalkeeper Lee Camp no chance in the Blues goal for his second goal of the season.
Reading turned the game on its head by taking the lead shortly before the hour mark.
Meite got across Pedersen to meet John Swift's deep free kick to glance home a powerful downward header from seven yards out.
Gardner forced Cabral into routine saves from his 25-yard drive then a glancing header.
But Reading hit Blues on the break with a third goal as Gomes raced away on the counter-attack before coolly curling low past Camp.


birminghammail--2020-03-07--'Still hope' - Why Swansea City fans are happy with West Brom stalemate

Swansea City fans have been reacting to the goalless draw between their side and West Bromwich Albion .
The Baggies had to settle for a point on their trip to the Liberty Stadium , which sees them drop down to second place in the Sky Bet Championship table after Leeds United ’ s win over Huddersfield Town .
Albion passed up an excellent late chance from Jake Livermore as they relinquished their hold on top spot for at least one week .
Slaven Bilic will now begin preparing his players for a clash against local rivals Birmingham City next Saturday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their side three points adrift of the play-offs , have been giving their thoughts and emotions on the draw with Albion .
Here is a selection of what they had to say .
If you want to follow all things Albion via social media then this is the place to find out how .
Transfers , injuries , match-day videos and photos and the thoughts of the manager and his players , we ’ ve got you covered .
We ’ ll be bringing the very latest throughout the week and around the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ updated with our social media accounts ... Twitter : All the latest news as it happens For all your latest WBA news , opinion , analysis and transfer gossip , click here You can follow our reporter Joseph Chapman on Twitter , and his email address is Joseph.Chapman @ reachplc.com Lydon Spiteri : “ Good point .
There is still hope for the play-offs.
” Peter Dagnall : “ Although down one place happy with the point.
” Leon Edwards New : “ A point is a point I think we can still @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ Running out of games if we want to finish in sixth .
”

We have more newsletters
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get Albion manager latest, team news, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox
We have more newsletters
Thank you for subscribing!
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get Albion manager latest, team news, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox
Swansea City fans have been reacting to the goalless draw between their side and West Bromwich Albion.
The Baggies had to settle for a point on their trip to the Liberty Stadium, which sees them drop down to second place in the Sky Bet Championship table after Leeds United’s win over Huddersfield Town.
Albion passed up an excellent late chance from Jake Livermore as they relinquished their hold on top spot for at least one week.
Slaven Bilic will now begin preparing his players for a clash against local rivals Birmingham City next Saturday.
Swansea fans, who now see their side three points adrift of the play-offs, have been giving their thoughts and emotions on the draw with Albion.
Here is a selection of what they had to say.
Lydon Spiteri: “Good point. There is still hope for the play-offs.”
Peter Dagnall: “Although down one place happy with the point.”
Gemma Jones: “Well done swans played brilliant today.”
Daniel Myers: “Great point.”
Leon Edwards New: “A point is a point I think we can still make the play-offs.”
Michael Williams: “Running out of games if we want to finish in sixth.”
Keith Beano Jones: “Cracking point.”


birminghammail--2020-03-07--Nuno makes top-four admission after frustrating Brighton draw

Nuno Espirito Santo insisted Wolverhampton Wanderers ' are not focused on their top-four chances , after they were held 0-0 by Brighton at Molineux .
Wolves could have moved into the Champions League places with a two-goal win , but failed to create any meaningful chances on a frustrating afternoon .
It was Wolves ' 47th game of a gruelling season which has seen them reach the Europa League last 16 , where they will meet Olympiakos in Athens on Thursday .
But Nuno feels that was not the reason for the below-par showing : `` I think we did @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wanted and what we expected .
Even though Brighton are a very good team , they are well organised .
It was a game of not too many chances .
We have to circulate the ball faster . ''
Asked if he was disappointed to not move into the top-four , Nuno said : `` It 's not about that , we are not disappointed about that .
What we must realise , is we did n't perform well .
We are game by game , and the game by game situations , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ today and we must analyse and improve for the next one . ''
The point moves Wolves into fifth , although Manchester United and Tottenham could move back above them , should they win their respective fixtures this weekend .

Nuno Espirito Santo insisted Wolverhampton Wanderers' are not focused on their top-four chances, after they were held 0-0 by Brighton at Molineux.
Wolves could have moved into the Champions League places with a two-goal win, but failed to create any meaningful chances on a frustrating afternoon.
It was Wolves' 47th game of a gruelling season which has seen them reach the Europa League last 16, where they will meet Olympiakos in Athens on Thursday.
But Nuno feels that was not the reason for the below-par showing: "I think we didn't perform so well, like we wanted and what we expected. Even though Brighton are a very good team, they are well organised. It was a game of not too many chances. We have to circulate the ball faster."
Asked if he was disappointed to not move into the top-four, Nuno said: "It's not about that, we are not disappointed about that. What we must realise, is we didn't perform well. We are game by game, and the game by game situations, the only focus is what we did today and we must analyse and improve for the next one."
The point moves Wolves into fifth, although Manchester United and Tottenham could move back above them, should they win their respective fixtures this weekend.


birminghammail--2020-03-07--'We'll need him' - West Brom fans desperate for key player to return after Swansea draw

West Bromwich Albion fans have been reacting to their side ’ s goalless draw with Swansea City .
The Baggies went into the game at the Liberty Stadium top of the Sky Bet Championship , but drop to second after Leeds United ’ s win over Huddersfield Town .
The game saw Romaine Sawyers restored to the starting XI after serving his ban , while Matt Phillips missed out altogether after his partner gave birth .
Albion fans took to social media after the game to express their thoughts and emotions on the result and their side ’ s performance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they had to say .
If you want to follow all things Albion via social media then this is the place to find out how .
Transfers , injuries , match-day videos and photos and the thoughts of the manager and his players , we ’ ve got you covered .
We ’ ll be bringing the very latest throughout the week and around the clock .
Make sure you keep yourself updated with our social media accounts ... Twitter : All the latest news as it happens For all your latest WBA @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gossip , click here You can follow our reporter Joseph Chapman on Twitter , and his email address is Joseph.Chapman @ reachplc.com TheJackal : “ When 's Diangana back ?
Looks like we 'll need him !
” Rory : “ Ca n't wait for Diangana to come back.
” Ade M : “ Well that was frustrating .
We offered very little in the final third , but then again neither did Swansea .
A draw was probably a fair result.
” Ross Melrose : “ 90 minutes of my life I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Perry : “ What a poor performance that was .
Do not understand why we kept to that system - wasn ’ t working from the off .
It was crying out for 2 up top , Kanu look stranded all game.
” BoDZ : “ Do we have a striker that can do something other than fall on the floor every time the ball comes near him ?
”

We have more newsletters
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get Albion manager latest, team news, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox
We have more newsletters
Thank you for subscribing!
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Get Albion manager latest, team news, match updates and analysis delivered straight to your inbox
West Bromwich Albion fans have been reacting to their side’s goalless draw with Swansea City .
The Baggies went into the game at the Liberty Stadium top of the Sky Bet Championship, but drop to second after Leeds United’s win over Huddersfield Town.
The game saw Romaine Sawyers restored to the starting XI after serving his ban, while Matt Phillips missed out altogether after his partner gave birth.
Albion fans took to social media after the game to express their thoughts and emotions on the result and their side’s performance.
Here is a selection of what they had to say.
Luke Pollard: “9 games to go!”
TheJackal: “When's Diangana back? Looks like we'll need him!”
Rory: “Can't wait for Diangana to come back.”
Ade M: “Well that was frustrating. We offered very little in the final third, but then again neither did Swansea. A draw was probably a fair result.”
Ross Melrose: “90 minutes of my life I’ll never get back.”
Matty Perry: “What a poor performance that was. Do not understand why we kept to that system - wasn’t working from the off. It was crying out for 2 up top, Kanu look stranded all game.”
BoDZ: “Do we have a striker that can do something other than fall on the floor every time the ball comes near him?”


birminghammail--2020-03-07--'Beaten too easily' - Birmingham City player ratings as they are beaten by Reading

A shoddy second half saw Birmingham City slip to their first league defeat since January 1 .
Blues went ahead early on through Scott Hogan ’ s seventh goal in eight league games – but a glaring miss which might have made the game safe , cost his team .
Reading replied with goals through Matt Miazga , Yakou Meite and Pele to take the points .
Pulled off one important save from Meite ’ s drive in the first half .
Can ’ t be blamed for Miazga ’ s bullet or Meite ’ s header .
Beaten by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ A super knock down for Crowley gave the midfielder chance to pick out Jutkiewicz in the 12th minute .
Also made a strong block on Olise ’ s shot on the half hour .
Came forward more as Blues chased the game but couldn ’ t provide the quality Blues needed .
Lifted some accurate long balls at the Reading defence , some aimless lumps forward too .
Probably shaded his battle with Puscas but allowed Pele too much space at the end .
The interception of the season , plucking the ball @ @ @ @ @ @ @ over his left shoulder .
Looked strong and reliable for the most part with a performance that confirmed his return to form .
Beaten too easily for Meite ’ s goal but it was probably his only mistake .
Was strong in the tackle , read the game well and tried his best to produce something in attack – without any luck .
Won the ball in the second minute and send over a near-post cross which just eluded Hogan .
Missed Jutkiewicz with a much easier crossing chance soon after .
Overall @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not the delivery required for a player of his ability .
His energy levels are remarkable but he should have blocked the cross for Miazga ’ s goal and done better than hitting the side netting in the first half .
His commitment without the ball far outweighed his quality with it .
One trademark surging run in the first half put Jutkiewicz free to the right of the area – and ended up with Hogan missing from close range .
Struck a decent low drive with ten minutes to go and spent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ second balls .
Caused Andy Yiadom nightmares in the first half , finding space and team-mates .
Had one shooting chance just before the break but found the ‘ keeper from an angle .
For most of the game he looked the most likely Blues player to unlock something .
Like when he was so obviously pulled back by Miazga just before he went off with a penalty appeal still ringing out .
A real poacher ’ s goal , showing bravery to compete with Rafael for the ball – and control to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
But his back-post miss from two yards ended up being so costly .
Involved in a physical battle with his pal Michael Morrison from the first minute .
The referee allowed the defender to take liberties too .
Missed his best chance at the start of the second half in what was a sub-par display .
MRABTI ( for Bellingham , 72 ) 5 Unable to inspire anything

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Never miss breaking news by signing up to our free email updates
A shoddy second half saw Birmingham City slip to their first league defeat since January 1.
Blues went ahead early on through Scott Hogan’s seventh goal in eight league games – but a glaring miss which might have made the game safe, cost his team.
Reading replied with goals through Matt Miazga, Yakou Meite and Pele to take the points.
STARTING FORMATION
4-4-2
CAMP 6
Pulled off one important save from Meite’s drive in the first half. Can’t be blamed for Miazga’s bullet or Meite’s header. Beaten by a pinpoint curler at the end.
COLIN 5.5
A super knock down for Crowley gave the midfielder chance to pick out Jutkiewicz in the 12th minute. Also made a strong block on Olise’s shot on the half hour. Came forward more as Blues chased the game but couldn’t provide the quality Blues needed.
ROBERTS 6
Lifted some accurate long balls at the Reading defence, some aimless lumps forward too. Probably shaded his battle with Puscas but allowed Pele too much space at the end.
DEAN 6.5
The interception of the season, plucking the ball out of the air on the stretch over his left shoulder. Looked strong and reliable for the most part with a performance that confirmed his return to form.
PEDERSEN 6
Beaten too easily for Meite’s goal but it was probably his only mistake. Was strong in the tackle, read the game well and tried his best to produce something in attack – without any luck.
CROWLEY 5.5
Won the ball in the second minute and send over a near-post cross which just eluded Hogan. Missed Jutkiewicz with a much easier crossing chance soon after. Overall found some excellent pockets of space but not the delivery required for a player of his ability.
SUNJIC 5.5
His energy levels are remarkable but he should have blocked the cross for Miazga’s goal and done better than hitting the side netting in the first half. His commitment without the ball far outweighed his quality with it.
GARDNER 5.5
One trademark surging run in the first half put Jutkiewicz free to the right of the area – and ended up with Hogan missing from close range. Struck a decent low drive with ten minutes to go and spent the rest of the match battling for second balls.
BELLINGHAM 7
Caused Andy Yiadom nightmares in the first half, finding space and team-mates. Had one shooting chance just before the break but found the ‘keeper from an angle. For most of the game he looked the most likely Blues player to unlock something. Like when he was so obviously pulled back by Miazga just before he went off with a penalty appeal still ringing out.
HOGAN 6
A real poacher’s goal, showing bravery to compete with Rafael for the ball – and control to lift it into the net under pressure. But his back-post miss from two yards ended up being so costly.
JUTKIEWICZ 5
Involved in a physical battle with his pal Michael Morrison from the first minute. The referee allowed the defender to take liberties too. Missed his best chance at the start of the second half in what was a sub-par display.
SUBSTITUTES
MRABTI (for Bellingham, 72) 5 Unable to inspire anything
KIEFTENBELD (for Sunjic, 84) N/A
Not used: Trueman, Harding, Clarke-Slater, Montero, Boyd-Munce
OPPOSITION
READING (4-2-3-1): Cabral; Yiadom, Morrison, Miazga, Richards; Swift (Moore 82), Rinomhota (Gomes 72); Meite, Ejaria (McCleary 72), Olise; Puscas. Not used: Walker, Blackett, Masika, Adam
GOALS
BLUES: Hogan (6)
READING: Miazga (52), Meite (56)
THE REF: Andy Davies
ATTENDANCE : 19,525 (1,277 away)
NEXT UP: West Brom (a), Saturday, March 14, 12.30pm kick-off


birminghammail--2020-03-07--'A chance missed' - Wolves player ratings after Brighton stalemate

Wolverhampton Wanderers ' top-four aspirations took a hit as they were held 0-0 by Brighton at Molineux .
Nuno Espirito Santo 's side knew a win would see them move into the Champions League places , but failed to create chances on a flat afternoon .
The Wolves boss made one change from the win over Spurs , with Adama Traore moving to the bench after suffering a shoulder injury .
Leander Dendoncker came into the side , with Wolves switching to 3-5-2 .
In a game of few chances Raul Jimenez spurned the best chance in the first half @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Wolves moved into fifth , but it felt a case of two points dropped .
Here 's how we rated the Wolves players ... Was as much of a spectator as the 30,000 supporters in attendance .
A tame shot from 30 yards was as much as he was tested .
Not as his usual , imperious best , a careless pass in the first-half almost let Brighton in , although he recovered well .
Rarely tested , but did deal with Maupay well .
Was asked to dictate a lot of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ despite Wolves adding another central midfielder .
Picked up his ninth booking of the season in the first half , leaving him walking a disciplinary tightrope in the coming weeks .
After his caution , he produced a number of timely challenges .
Nominated for player of the month , but Doherty failed to imprint his mark on the game from an attacking sense .
Looked more dangerous when Traore came on in the second half .
Not as brilliant as in recent weeks , but still kept Wolves ticking over and rarely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ play a little deeper today , but still managed to have a couple of shots , with the second blocked on its way to goal .
Taken off for Traore as Nuno went for the win .
Tidy if unspectacular , the Portuguese kept the ball moving butt failed to create the defining moment .
Like Neves , you feel the 3-4-3 formation suits his game more .
The furthest forward of Wolves ' midfield trio , the Belgian struggled to provide the attacking impetus they were crying out for .
Had a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ well over .
After dropping out of the squad in recent weeks this was a chance for him to make a real statement .
A chance missed .
A real enigma .
Goes from the sublime to the ordinary on a regular basis .
Twisted Martin Montoya i the first half , but conceded possession too many times in attacking areas .
Not really tested defensively by the Seagulls .
A quiet afternoon .
Did n't stop working the two , physical Brighton defenders but it was to no avail .
Linked up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Missed the best chance of the first half when volleying wide after an Adam Webster error .
He may not have been able to continue his red-hot form in front of goal , but was arguably the most dangerous player in old gold .
Constantly driving Wolves forward , his lung-bursting second half run deserved to come more , but was wasted by his strike partner .
Within minutes of coming on , he showed just why the crowd was so desperate to see his introduction .
Almost teed up Podence after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wolves are managing his workload but the first hour proved just how vital he is to Nuno 's team in 2020 .
Looked sharp and almost notched his first goal but his shot was blocked in the box , More to come from him .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Something went wrong, please try again later.
Wolverhampton Wanderers' top-four aspirations took a hit as they were held 0-0 by Brighton at Molineux.
Nuno Espirito Santo's side knew a win would see them move into the Champions League places, but failed to create chances on a flat afternoon.
The Wolves boss made one change from the win over Spurs, with Adama Traore moving to the bench after suffering a shoulder injury.
Leander Dendoncker came into the side, with Wolves switching to 3-5-2. In a game of few chances Raul Jimenez spurned the best chance in the first half, whislt Dendoncker spurned a late chance.
Wolves moved into fifth, but it felt a case of two points dropped. Here's how we rated the Wolves players...
Wolves (3-5-2)
Rui Patricio 6
Was as much of a spectator as the 30,000 supporters in attendance. A tame shot from 30 yards was as much as he was tested.
Willy Boly 6
Not as his usual, imperious best, a careless pass in the first-half almost let Brighton in, although he recovered well.
Conor Coady 6
Rarely tested, but did deal with Maupay well. Was asked to dictate a lot of the play in the first half, despite Wolves adding another central midfielder.
Romain Saiss 6
Picked up his ninth booking of the season in the first half, leaving him walking a disciplinary tightrope in the coming weeks. After his caution, he produced a number of timely challenges.
Matt Doherty 6
Nominated for player of the month, but Doherty failed to imprint his mark on the game from an attacking sense. Looked more dangerous when Traore came on in the second half.
Ruben Neves 7
Not as brilliant as in recent weeks, but still kept Wolves ticking over and rarely gave the ball away. Asked to play a little deeper today, but still managed to have a couple of shots, with the second blocked on its way to goal. Taken off for Traore as Nuno went for the win.
Joao Moutinho 6
Tidy if unspectacular, the Portuguese kept the ball moving butt failed to create the defining moment. Like Neves, you feel the 3-4-3 formation suits his game more.
Leander Dendoncker 5
The furthest forward of Wolves' midfield trio, the Belgian struggled to provide the attacking impetus they were crying out for. Had a bug chance late on, but fired well over. After dropping out of the squad in recent weeks this was a chance for him to make a real statement. A chance missed.
Ruben Vinagre 6
A real enigma. Goes from the sublime to the ordinary on a regular basis. Twisted Martin Montoya i the first half, but conceded possession too many times in attacking areas. Not really tested defensively by the Seagulls.
Raul Jimenez 6
A quiet afternoon. Didn't stop working the two, physical Brighton defenders but it was to no avail. Linked up well with Jota in the opening stages. Missed the best chance of the first half when volleying wide after an Adam Webster error.
Diogo Jota 7
He may not have been able to continue his red-hot form in front of goal, but was arguably the most dangerous player in old gold. Constantly driving Wolves forward, his lung-bursting second half run deserved to come more, but was wasted by his strike partner.
Subs
Traore (for Neves, 64) 7
Within minutes of coming on, he showed just why the crowd was so desperate to see his introduction. Almost teed up Podence after a brilliant run down the right. Wolves are managing his workload but the first hour proved just how vital he is to Nuno's team in 2020.
Podence (for Jota, 74) 6
Looked sharp and almost notched his first goal but his shot was blocked in the box, More to come from him.
Subs not used: Ruddy, Jordao, Neto, Kilman, Buur


birminghammail--2020-03-07--West Brom player ratings: Ajayi barely puts a foot wrong as Robson-Kanu frustrated in Swansea draw

West Brom played out their first goalless draw of the season as they dominated Swansea City without doing enough in the final third to merit all three points .
Albion passed up an excellent late chance from Jake Livermore as they relinquished their hold on top spot for at least one week , courtesy of Leeds ’ win over Huddersfield .
Romaine Sawyers was restored to the starting XI after serving his ban , while Matt Phillips missed out altogether after his partner gave birth .
There were one or two hairy moments in the first half , when Andre @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had look-ins , but it was a period enjoyed by Albion largely .
Both Dara O ’ Shea and Callum Robinson delivered excellent low crosses that flashed past the goal , but both evaded the stretching Hal Robson-Kanu .
Beyond that , the other notable opening was when Robinson won the ball in the hosts ’ half and shot low , forcing Woodman into a low save .
In the second , the Baggies just lacked ideas once they ’ d arrived at the penalty area .
Robson-Kanu and Darnell Furlong tried their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to have won it , but he couldn ’ t keep his strike down .
Here is how we rated the Albion players .
Punched one free kick clear in the first half , and then punched a stinging drive from Grimes clear at the beginning of the second half .
One hairy moment came when he and Bartley didn ’ t initially deal with a loose ball .
Another clean sheet , though .
Made one crunching , crucial challenge in the first half as the ball ran loose in the Albion @ @ @ @ @ @ @ carded moments later .
Delivered one or two decent balls down the right .
Had the legs to keep a leash on Brewster in a foot race , and dominated him aerially .
No nonsense tackles throughout , and displayed his eye for a pass throughout .
An excellent showing from the centre half , where he barely put a foot wrong .
Back at his old haunt , he received a few half hearted boos from home supporters .
Did the basics well , and won a number of headers .
One @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a free kick .
Not happy to be subbed .
Kieran Gibbs is now back in the squad , but on this basis he ’ ll not have a look in while Townsend continues to dish out performances like this .
Kept Kalulu quiet for the most part .
Terrific application throughout .
You could see he looked well rested and refreshed from the off .
Sawyers here strolled around the Liberty surface in the first half in the same way as he had done earlier in the season .
His passing was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ where necessary and dished out instructions to teammates .
Back in the role he favours most , Livermore was relentless in the first half as he often is .
Grimes and Fulton are decent ball players , though , so it was a good battle .
A lovely one two with Robson-Kanu resulted in a sidefooted shot over the bar , but the golden chance came at the death when he blazed over .
Midfielder Krovinovic , who really upped the ante from the bench on Tuesday , was part of a number @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that fell down in the final third .
In the second , his passing was a little wayward .
Denied with a brilliant challenge when well placed in the box , but his levels picked up when Robinson and Pereira were hooked .
Pereira ’ s passing wasn ’ t quite as crisp as it so often is , though he did interlink really well with Sawyers at times when he dropped deep .
Tried one or two incisive balls that Albion lacked generally but his set-piece delivery was well below his usual @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Woodman after winning the ball in the Swansea area , and then his cross across the face of goal was just missed by the stretching Robson-Kanu .
Quietened in the second half and was withdrawn .
Didn ’ t get the same level of supply that he did on the last outing at Bristol .
Was made to work very hard against the earnest pair of Rodon and Cabango .
Came close twice in the first half but was frustrated in the second .
Dropped deep regularly , his ball control always @ @ @ @ @ @ @ decent showing .
Turned the afterburners to leave Naughton for dead at one stage , but his final ball was truly lacking .
Missed one half chance , when he smashed over from the edge of the box .
Bright , he played a hand in the build up to Livermore ’ s excellent late chance .
Booked .

Something went wrong, please try again later.
Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later.
Something went wrong, please try again later.
West Brom played out their first goalless draw of the season as they dominated Swansea City without doing enough in the final third to merit all three points.
Albion passed up an excellent late chance from Jake Livermore as they relinquished their hold on top spot for at least one week, courtesy of Leeds’ win over Huddersfield.
Romaine Sawyers was restored to the starting XI after serving his ban, while Matt Phillips missed out altogether after his partner gave birth.
There were one or two hairy moments in the first half, when Andre Ayew, Aldo Kalulu and Rhian Brewster had look-ins, but it was a period enjoyed by Albion largely.
Both Dara O’Shea and Callum Robinson delivered excellent low crosses that flashed past the goal, but both evaded the stretching Hal Robson-Kanu.
Beyond that, the other notable opening was when Robinson won the ball in the hosts’ half and shot low, forcing Woodman into a low save.
In the second, the Baggies just lacked ideas once they’d arrived at the penalty area. Robson-Kanu and Darnell Furlong tried their luck; Livermore’s effort ought to have won it, but he couldn’t keep his strike down.
Here is how we rated the Albion players.
Johnstone 7
Punched one free kick clear in the first half, and then punched a stinging drive from Grimes clear at the beginning of the second half.
One hairy moment came when he and Bartley didn’t initially deal with a loose ball. Another clean sheet, though.
O’Shea 7
Made one crunching, crucial challenge in the first half as the ball ran loose in the Albion box, but was unfortunate to be carded moments later. Delivered one or two decent balls down the right.
Ajayi 9*
Had the legs to keep a leash on Brewster in a foot race, and dominated him aerially. No nonsense tackles throughout, and displayed his eye for a pass throughout. An excellent showing from the centre half, where he barely put a foot wrong.
Bartley 7
Back at his old haunt, he received a few half hearted boos from home supporters. Did the basics well, and won a number of headers. One moment of miscommunication with Johnstone led to a free kick. Not happy to be subbed.
Townsend 7
Kieran Gibbs is now back in the squad, but on this basis he’ll not have a look in while Townsend continues to dish out performances like this. Kept Kalulu quiet for the most part. Terrific application throughout.
Sawyers 8
You could see he looked well rested and refreshed from the off. Sawyers here strolled around the Liberty surface in the first half in the same way as he had done earlier in the season. His passing was crisp, he put his foot in where necessary and dished out instructions to teammates.
Livermore 7
Back in the role he favours most, Livermore was relentless in the first half as he often is. Grimes and Fulton are decent ball players, though, so it was a good battle. A lovely one two with Robson-Kanu resulted in a sidefooted shot over the bar, but the golden chance came at the death when he blazed over.
Krovinovic 7
Midfielder Krovinovic, who really upped the ante from the bench on Tuesday, was part of a number of decent moves in the first half that fell down in the final third. In the second, his passing was a little wayward. Denied with a brilliant challenge when well placed in the box, but his levels picked up when Robinson and Pereira were hooked.
Pereira 7
Pereira’s passing wasn’t quite as crisp as it so often is, though he did interlink really well with Sawyers at times when he dropped deep. Tried one or two incisive balls that Albion lacked generally but his set-piece delivery was well below his usual standards.
Robinson 6
Forced one low save out of Woodman after winning the ball in the Swansea area, and then his cross across the face of goal was just missed by the stretching Robson-Kanu.
Quietened in the second half and was withdrawn.
Robson-Kanu 6
Didn’t get the same level of supply that he did on the last outing at Bristol. Was made to work very hard against the earnest pair of Rodon and Cabango. Came close twice in the first half but was frustrated in the second. Dropped deep regularly, his ball control always of a very good standard.
SUBS Grosicki (for Robinson 59) 6
Another decent showing. Turned the afterburners to leave Naughton for dead at one stage, but his final ball was truly lacking.
Furlong (for Bartley 59) 6
Missed one half chance, when he smashed over from the edge of the box.
Edwards (for Pereira 78) N/A
Bright, he played a hand in the build up to Livermore’s excellent late chance. Booked.
Subs not used: Bond, Gibbs, Harper, Austin
Swansea City: Woodman; Naughton, Cabango, Rodon, Bidwell; Fulton, Grimes, Gallagher, Ayew, Kalulu (Dyer 67); Brewster
Subs not used: Mulder, Roberts, Wilmot, Dhanda, Cullen
GOALS
Swansea - ; Albion -
The ref: Mr Robert Jones
Attendance: 16,788
Up next: Blues (h) - Saturday 14 March (12:30pm KO)


birminghammail--2020-03-07--Wolves 0-0 Brighton REACTION: Nuno speaks after lacklustre draw with Brighton

Wolves missed the chance to go into the Premier League 's top-four after a drab draw with Brighton .
They @ @ @ @ @ a two-goal win would see them leapfrog Chelsea and Manchester United , but never looked @ @ @ @ @ Nuno Espirito made one team change from the win over Tottenham , with Leander Dendoncker @ @ @ @ @ , while Wolves also switched back to a 3-5-2 formation .
In a flat first-half @ @ @ @ @ chance , when Jimenez volleyed wide after an Adam Wesbter header .
Nuno brought on @ @ @ @ @ mark and the speedster instantly showed why the Wolves fans were desperate to see his @ @ @ @ @ almost set up Daniel Podence , but his shot was blocked .
Wolves huffed and @ @ @ @ @ land a killer blow on the resolute Seagulls .
They move up to fifth , @ @ @ @ @ back above them with a win over Manchester City on Sunday .

Wolves missed the chance to go into the Premier League's top-four after a drab draw with Brighton.
They came into the game knowing a two-goal win would see them leapfrog Chelsea and Manchester United, but never looked close to achieving that.
Nuno Espirito made one team change from the win over Tottenham, with Leander Dendoncker coming in for Adama Traore, while Wolves also switched back to a 3-5-2 formation.
In a flat first-half, Wolves had the best chance, when Jimenez volleyed wide after an Adam Wesbter header.
Nuno brought on Traore just after the hour mark and the speedster instantly showed why the Wolves fans were desperate to see his introduction. His tricky run almost set up Daniel Podence, but his shot was blocked.
Wolves huffed and puffed, but failed to land a killer blow on the resolute Seagulls. They move up to fifth, although Man United could go back above them with a win over Manchester City on Sunday.


birminghammail--2020-03-07--Slaven Bilic press conference LIVE: West Brom boss' thoughts on Swansea draw

West Brom played out their first goalless draw of the season as they dominated Swansea City without doing enough in the final third to merit all three points .
Albion passed up an excellent late chance from Jake Livermore as they relinquished their hold on top spot for at least one week , courtesy of Leeds ’ win over Huddersfield .
Romaine Sawyers was restored to the starting XI after serving his ban , while Matt Phillips missed out altogether after his partner gave birth .
There were one or two hairy moments in the first half , when Andre @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had look-ins , but it was a period enjoyed by Albion largely .
Both Dara O ’ Shea and Callum Robinson delivered excellent low crosses that flashed past the goal , but both evaded the stretching Hal Robson-Kanu .
Beyond that , the other notable opening was when Robinson won the ball in the hosts ’ half and shot low , forcing Woodman into a low save .
In the second , the Baggies just lacked ideas once they ’ d arrived at the penalty area .
Robson-Kanu and Darnell Furlong tried their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to have won it , but he couldn ’ t keep his strike down .

West Brom played out their first goalless draw of the season as they dominated Swansea City without doing enough in the final third to merit all three points.
Albion passed up an excellent late chance from Jake Livermore as they relinquished their hold on top spot for at least one week, courtesy of Leeds’ win over Huddersfield.
Romaine Sawyers was restored to the starting XI after serving his ban, while Matt Phillips missed out altogether after his partner gave birth.
There were one or two hairy moments in the first half, when Andre Ayew, Aldo Kalulu and Rhian Brewster had look-ins, but it was a period enjoyed by Albion largely.
Both Dara O’Shea and Callum Robinson delivered excellent low crosses that flashed past the goal, but both evaded the stretching Hal Robson-Kanu.
Beyond that, the other notable opening was when Robinson won the ball in the hosts’ half and shot low, forcing Woodman into a low save.
In the second, the Baggies just lacked ideas once they’d arrived at the penalty area. Robson-Kanu and Darnell Furlong tried their luck; Livermore’s effort ought to have won it, but he couldn’t keep his strike down.