Express & Star

West Brom debrief: Fashionable and unfashionable subs and a decisive true grit

Albion made it eight matches unbeaten with a stoppage-time equaliser against Watford on Easter Monday.

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Adam Reach enjoyed a positive influence for his side when coming on in midfield at 2-0 down against Watford on Monday. (Photo by Malcolm Couzens - WBA/West Bromwich Albion FC via Getty Images).

Carlos Corberan’s hosts looked up against it at 2-0 down midway through the second half but strikes from Brandon Thomas-Asante and Darnell Furlong secured what appeared an unlikely point.

Baggies correspondent Lewis Cox looks at some of the talking points from the see-saw clash.

Thomas-Asante return

Albion’s top goalscorer was among the starters for the first time in around six weeks and his presence leading the line was noticeable.

It was an afternoon of ups and down for the enigmatic Thomas-Asante. He spurned a golden early opening when through against Daniel Bachmann, who stood up well, before the striker guided a tough header wide on half-time.

He may frustrate some but his presence up top is unquestionable. He works hard and occupies defenders – Watford was a thankless task against three giants at the back. It has been tough going for Albion with the willing Jed Wallace up front and Andi Weimann, at times, has struggled.

Thomas-Asante tends to score in streaks and stayed honest to net his 11th goal of the season – 10th in the Championship – with a fierce finish at a crucial time to mount the comeback.

Smooth Semi