MOWATT’S SHOT AT THE BIG TIME
Volley good show from Alex who is dreaming of the Prem at Albion
ALEX MOWATT had no doubts about teaming up with his former Barnsley boss Valerien Ismael at West Brom.
And now the midfielder is reaping the rewards of the reunion as he hopes to fulfil a lifelong ambition and win promotion to the Premier League.
Former Tykes skipper Mowatt and French coach Ismael (above) have a close bond from their time together at Oakwell.
But Mowatt knew that if he wanted to propel his career he would have to leave South Yorkshire for pastures new.
And two goals in two games, with the Baggies unbeaten in four in the league, is the perfect start to the new campaign. Mowatt needed less than 30 seconds to set the visitors on their way with a stunning leftfoot volley which flew into the top left corner.
“It was really nice to score a screamer again,” joked Mowatt. “The last few games we’ve started fast and scored early. It sets a tone for the game and helps massively.
“We had a lot of chances and were a little unlucky. I think we hit the post two or three times and the crossbar, but it just wouldn’t go in. But we’ve won the game and that’s all that matters. Everyone is buzzing.”
Mowatt, 26, is confident the Baggies can continue their fine form as they look for a return to the big time.
He added: “Every game is a tough game in the Championship so 10 points from the opening four games is a good start.”
After Mowatt’s quickfire opener, Matt Phillips doubled the lead on the stroke of half-time as Baggies strolled it. Ben Brereton Diaz seized on an error from keeper Sam Johnstone to pull a goal b a c k for Rovers six minutes after the break. But
Ismael’s high-flyers – they are level on top with Fulham – remained dominant and should have been out of sight.
They racked up 23 attempts, 11 on target, and only Rovers keeper Thomas Kaminski stood in their way.
Albion hit the woodwork on no fewer than four occasions – with Karlan Grant, Callum Robinson and Darnell Furlong among those frustrated – on their way to a deserved third win on the spin.
Rovers sold their star striker Adam Armstrong to Premier League Southampton earlier this month and boss Tony Mowbray is adamant his side needs new blood.
“We can’t spend big money on players but we are looking to see what’s available for us,” said Mowbray.
“We’re doing our best to try and bring some help in for this group of players. We’re looking hard and talking to lots of clubs.”