Author: Ben Fisher at the Hawthorns

In a tribute to West Bromwich Albion heroes Laurie Cunningham, Brendon Batson, and Cyrille Regis, the message “Breaking down barriers since 1978” flashed across the screens before kick-off. However, West Brom failed to break the deadlock against Southampton in the playoff semi-final, leaving the second leg finely poised. Both teams had their chances, with McCarthy denying Diangana for West Brom and Palmer making a crucial save against Stewart for Southampton. Despite a spirited start by West Brom, Walker-Peters and Smallbone created opportunities for Southampton while Downes and Mara threatened the West Brom goal. McCarthy’s heroics continued with a crucial save…