West Brom boss dismisses handball controversy
West Brom manager James Morrison admitted his side "rode their luck" in a 2-1 Championship win at Carrow Road that featured a blatant handball goal. Aune Heggebo, despite being ill and missing training, used his left arm to divert Jimmy-Jay Morgans’ cross into the net, an infringement missed by referee Tim Robinson and his assistant.
Morrison said, "I haven't seen it, and I think over the course of the season you'll get some, and vice versa. And if it is (handball) - I don't really care." He praised Heggebo’s commitment despite illness and acknowledged the team’s struggles, adding, "Welcome back to the Championship, isn't it? I knew that we were going to suffer at times, and we certainly did."
The West Brom boss also highlighted the defensive effort and Max O’Leary’s saves as key to the victory but admitted the team must improve away from home. On Morgans’ performance, Morrison said, "I think we're all asking the question if he's ready to step up in the Championship... I said to him, one chance, and he did it."
Harry Darling frustrated by handball goal
Norwich defender Harry Darling expressed his disappointment after the controversial handball goal that helped West Brom secure a 2-1 win at Carrow Road. Replays clearly showed Heggebo’s handball, but the officials allowed the goal to stand, sparking renewed calls for VAR in the Championship.
Darling told The Pink'un, The Pink'un, "I think everyone will see it. I don't want to say too much to get in trouble. But it's disappointing for that to go in." He acknowledged the divisive nature of VAR, adding, "You wish there was VAR, but I'm sure if we were on the other team, we probably wouldn't want it."
He also took responsibility for his part in the second goal, admitting, "I'm disappointed in the way the second goal went in. Obviously, I should do better." Darling lamented Norwich’s missed chances despite 20 attempts and seven saves forced from O’Leary, saying, "I think we should really be putting it in."
Morgans shines despite Norwich defeat
Jimmy-Jay Morgans caught the eye on his Championship debut with an assist and a match-winning solo goal for West Brom. Morrison noted the questions over Morgans’ readiness for this level but praised his work rate and confidence.
Morrison on Morgans’ impact
"Sometimes he drifts out of a game, but he was there for the team. And I said to him, one chance, and he did it. It was a great goal, and it was a great sidewinder (pass) from Max really," Morrison said.
The manager warned Morgans not to get carried away, stating, "I think he'll be walking in next week with a bit of swagger on him, and I'll have to knock him back down because at the end of the day it's one game and we've got tough games coming. In the league you have to be consistent, and he knows that."