ALBION KEEPER SAM’S A HAPPY BAGGIE
WEST BROM goalkeeper Sam Johnstone believes the clean sheet earned in Wednesday’s 3-0 victory against Swansea will give the promotion-chasers confidence going forward.
Johnstone, 25, pulled off a host of saves to keep Swansea at bay, while Chris Brunt, Mason Holgate and Jay Rodriguez were on target at the other end as the Baggies secured all three points in their first game since the dismissal of manager Darren Moore.
The Swans missed a golden opportunity in the 40th minute when Bersant Celina slipped while taking a penalty, sending the ball a few yards sideways before West Brom cleared it to safety.
And the hosts went on to keep a first clean sheet since their victory over Aston Villa in mid-February.
The shot-stopper said: “It was a great night for us. We got a clean sheet and we got three points so the lads are really happy. We dug in, we scored three goals and we got the victory.
“I managed to make a few saves and we also got a bit of luck with the penalty.
“It’s nice to make plenty of saves and go on to keep a clean sheet. I’m not sure which one was my favourite or which one was my best.
“We play open football and when you play that way you can’t really expect too many clean sheets. We haven’t had too many this season and it’s been a bit frustrating.
“The clean sheet and result will give everyone confidence, not just myself.”
Albion caretaker manager James Shan praised Johnstone’s performance.
He said: “I am delighted. Swansea posed a massive threat and Sam Johnstone’s performance kept us in the game.
“His performances have been very, very good throughout the season.”