Boss proud of battling Bridge display

Last updated : 03 March 2013 By Wba-mad Editor

Steve Clarke had no complaints after Albion’s battling 1-0 defeat to European champions Chelsea.

Demba Ba opened the scoring in the 28th minute after Chelsea overcame any concerns of a Stamford Bridge revolt after Rafa Benitez’s recent criticism of the club’s fans.

But despite concerted pressure from the hosts Albion remained in the game until late on and called upon Petr Cech to make two fine late saves to deny the Baggies an equaliser.

“We thought we prepared well enough to get something from the game today but unfortunately we didn’t,” said Clarke. 

“We went to sleep on a set play and that’s what cost us. 

“But when you’re only one behind you’ve always got a chance. 

“We speak quite a lot about when we play against the top teams – and make no mistake Chelsea are a top team and have some fantastic players - or when we play every week, that you just have to stay in the game. 

“And you know if you stay in the game and get to the last 15-20 minutes the momentum can swing and the atmosphere becomes a little bit nervous. 

“We were in the game. 

“We didn’t create anything clear-cut but there were one or two scrambles at the end and you could feel the tension in the crowd.”  

Do you think Albion deserved anything against the European champions? Have your say here at Baggies Banter