new signing Sebastien Pocognoli shone in the 2014-5 opener |
New boys Pocognoli, Wisdom and Gardener all produced notable moments as Albion clawed 2-1 ahead, only to surrender for a draw with 5 minutes left.
Pocognoli looked particularly impressive with his bursting pace down the wings and some reliable crossing. Wisdom too looked solid and confident on the ball. In midfield Craig Gardener linked up well with the front men and produced a dipping shot before half-time. It was his cross that set up Berahino for a second goal and the promise of a first day win.
But defensive weaknesses resurfaced with tired legs perhaps leading to some ball gazing that let Sunderland's Larrson craftily side foot home before the end.
Despite this, Albion looked sharp and moved the ball well for much of the game. Clearly, Irvine's training ground work is having effects. They looked much better organised than last term, especially going forwards with Gardener and Dorrans combining well.
Brown Ideye was not brought on - Irvine chose to bring on Sessignon, Baird and Yacob - a change that almost immediately led to the visitors scoring. Lack of concentration again the problem - something Albion were most culpable of last season in the (in)famous 3-3 draw against Cardiff.
But overall, the performance was a good one and with more signings likely to come before the transfer window closes, there are reasons for optimism this season. Albion need to start well and get some points on the board to avoid putting pressure on themselves as well as keep the fans onside. Staying out of the relegation dog fight will be Irvine's chief target this year.
So next week let's hope for 3 points with Berahino and Ideye on the score sheet and our defence standing firm.