Roy’s Response: Defeat Was Galling

Roy Hodgson has pulled no punches in his summation of yesterdays loss to Stoke. Poor Defending and a joke of a decision from the referee.

Speaking to wba.co.uk Hodgson discussed our failure to deal with the goal scoring attack and also why Mike Dean allowed the goal to stand given Shotten dislodged the ball from Foster’s hands by use of his studs.

‘To concede such a late goal was very galling, especially after seeing the replays. We defended the high ball very, very badly but then I think the referee could have helped by giving a freekick. Shotton’s foot was very high and he was leading with his studs. I’d have been happier maybe in some ways if I hadn’t seen such a clear foul.’

Hodgson admits he spoke to the referee following the game over the incident.

‘He quite fairly said he didn’t think it was a high foot, nor did he think their player was leading with his studs. But I’ll allow you to watch the TV and make up your own minds.’

Had it not been such a clear foul, Hodgson admits he still wouldn’t have been happy to concede such a goal.

‘Ben could’ve been braver and taken the studs in his chest!’ Hodgson quipped.

Vital West Brom on:

Vital West Brom on: