The numbers that reveal West Brom’s biggest issue in defeat vs Watford, and how it can be fixed
West Brom produced a disappointing display as they fell to defeat at Watford.
West Brom’s triumph over Preston was considered exactly the reaction fans were looking for with high hopes heading into Wednesday’s contest.
While Albion were not favourites to win against Watford, there was still an expectation that Mason’s side could secure all three points.
However, West Brom fell apart after a wonder goal from Isaac Price to lose 2-1 away from home in the Championship. Now, by the looks of things, it’s back to the drawing board for Ryan Mason.
West Brom struggled to create vs Watford
Mason has been criticised for Albion’s creativity since becoming manager over the summer.
Moments of individual brilliance have defined the Baggies’ season, and the game against the Hornets was no different. While Price’s strike was brilliant, Albion struggled to create quality chances.
In the first half, West Brom did not register a single shot from inside the box and only had three touches in the Watford penalty area, according to Albion analysis via X on 22 October.
Moreover, in the second half, the home side had twice as many shots as West Brom despite the Baggies seeing twice as much of the ball.
For an Albion side aiming for Premier League promotion, this is an issue which could devastate their chances if not addressed.
- Read more: Mason spotted in furious reaction after what Samuel Iling-Junior did in West Brom vs Watford
This is an issue for West Brom across the board
Albion have seen a lot of the ball in the Championship this season, averaging 53.1 per cent possession, according to Sofascore.
However, the Baggies have struggled to capitalise on it, with Albion’s defeat to Millwall being an extreme example of this.
- Albion had 61 possession against Millwall
- They registered 10 shots to their opponents’ 11
- West Brom created zero big chances to Millwall’s three
Interestingly, Albion tend to see less of the ball during victories. Indeed, in their 1-0 win over Norwich, West Brom had 41 per cent possession.
In West Brom’s most recent win over Preston, the Baggies registered 49 per cent possession, created two big chances and attempted 16 shots on goal.
Could it be that Mason’s West Brom are a more lethal and clinical side when fed less of the ball?
It is an interesting theory and one which could be substantiated over time if Albion’s inconsistent run of form continues.
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