Roberto Di Matteo’s fiery words at half-time inspired Albion to three valuable points against Peterborough United after a below-par first-half. The division’s bottom side more than matched their second placed hosts during the first 45 minutes, however after the ‘hair-dryer’ treatment from the Baggies boss, two second-half goals were enough to see off the Posh.
Albion’s early tempo was quickly subdued by the visitors with Jerome Thomas unlucky to see a goal-bound volley headed off the line and Luke Moore’s snap-shot the only two efforts of measure in the opening half.
The Baggies were a different side after the break with Luke Moore opening the scoring just after the hour mark and Ryan Bennett heading into his own goal in the 67th minute.
"There are probably a number of factors for our first-half performance," said the Italian.
"For example, last weekend's game was postponed and training this week was disrupted by the weather.
"Teams also come here, sit back and close the space down.
"That makes life difficult for any home team - not just us.
"I thought Peterborough defended quite deep but we also weren't at our best in the first half.
"We gave the ball away a lot and were slow.
"There wasn't much movement and we didn't penetrate the Peterborough defence enough.
"We were looking for the all-important first goal but it didn't quite happen.
"I had to raise my voice a little bit at half-time because I disagreed to some extent with what we produced in the first half.
"Trust me, when it is needed I can raise my voice!
"I also told them to stay patient because it was important they stuck to the game-plan.
"We raised the tempo after the break and managed to score two goals.
"I was very pleased with the second half. We were very professional.
"I think we deserved to win."