Albion manager Roberto Di Matteo was smiling for more reasons than one after seeing his side celebrate promotion in style. In front of a packed Hawthorns crowd the Baggies dominated a poor Middlesbrough side with Simon Cox and Roman Bednar both netting their 11th goals of the season.
The victory over ‘Boro equalled the Baggies’ record points tally in the Championship and maintained their outside chance of winning the title.
"I thought we played really well today," said Di Matteo.
"It was a fantastic performance by the team and the goals we scored were very good.
"The build up to the second goal was fantastic.
"We scored goals, created chances and were always in control of the game.
"We never really got into any trouble.
"Our players have been very professional all season and they deserve a lot of credit.
"We have 89 points with two games left - that's a lot of points.
"Our aim is to break that record now."
Roberto Di Matteo again praised The Hawthorns hoards after they backed the Baggies in their droves during a sunny afternoon in the Black Country where the famous ‘Sandwell Wave’ featured on a carnival afternoon.
"The fans really enjoyed themselves.
"The players still had a job to do so it was probably difficult for them to focus at times.
"But the players deserve all the credit they are getting.
"It was sunny, not too cold, the supporters were magnificent, we won and kept a clean-sheet.
"You can't ask for more!"