Match report: West Brom 1 Sunderland 0

Aug 22 2010

ROBERTO Di Matteo gave Albion’s club secretary Richard Garlick a peck on the cheek after watching new signing Peter Odemwingie score on his debut.

The Lokomotiv Moscow striker started his Albion career like a train to give the Baggies their first win of the season.

But it was a close call.

The Nigerian signed on Friday morning and only received his international clearance during the evening following the efforts of the club’s administrative staff, notably the recently-appointed legal director/secretary.

And it was just as well with the livewire forward scoring with nine minutes to go against a hard-working Black Cats side.

Chris Brunt went close to making it two when he smashed a long range effort against the bar in the dying moments but there was little to worry Albion’s defence, with Steve Bruce’s side lacking a cutting edge in front of goal.

Di Matteo said: “We were looking for a reaction and they responded well. It was a deserved win.

“Peter only trained once with us. It was a gamble, we threw him in at the deep end and he gave us a threat up front.

“He didn’t know any of the players but we took the gamble because he’s a quality player who can give us something different. He scored too which was great for him. It wasn’t easy so we’re happy.”

Di Matteo praised lively midfielder James Morrison following his excellent display.

But the Italian was just pleased to see his side pick up their first win of the season, not least after last weekend’s defeat to Chelsea.

“We kept a clean sheet, scored a goal and we can’t ask for more,” he added.

“Sunderland a good team and we’ve got three points. It was very pleasing to bounce back from last week.

“As for James – he was excellent. He is like a new signing for us. He’s worked hard in pre-season, done well and is in great shape.”