Ryan Mason admits West Brom had to ‘suffer’ in win at Norwich

West Brom head coach Ryan Mason admitted his side had needed to ride their luck as they got back to winning ways with a hard-fought 1-0 win at Norwich.

The Baggies were on the back foot for long periods but, with keeper Josh Griffiths leading the way, they held firm under intense pressure to record a first win in four in the Championship.

“Obviously we are delighted with the three points but we had to suffer for it tonight,” he said. “We were up a good side and I think luck was with us at times.

“It was a tough game but everyone worked really hard and obviously Josh produced some really good moments for us. That’s what you need from your keeper in games like this and I’m sure Josh will enjoy it, gain some more confidence and grow from it.

“But I’m pleased with everyone because it was a good team effort against tough opponents and we will all go home happy.

“But we won’t get carried away – just as we didn’t get too down when we were pegged back by a sucker punch in the 93rd minute in our last game (a 1-1 home draw with Leicester).”

Norwich dominated for long periods but Griffiths made a string of fine saves to keep them out.

The pick of the bunch came in the closing stages when he somehow managed to tip Jovon Makama’s close-range header around the post – and he also thwarted Ante Crnac minutes later when the unmarked Croatian looked certain to score.

In the end all of Norwich’s efforts came to nothing and the game was settled by a 20th-minute goal from Josh Maja who side-footed home after a cross from Samuel Iling-Junior had caused chaos in the home box.

Norwich have now lost all five of their home games this season, with four of those coming in the Championship, and head coach Liam Manning could understand the jeers at Carrow Road at the final whistle.

“We are in a results business and not winning at home is not good enough. It’s not a record anyone would want,” he said.

“But this was a much better performance – they had had one shot all night and we created a lot of chances but unfortunately were unable to take them. We lacked a bit of quality in and around the box at times and their keeper made some good saves.”

Norwich travel to East Anglian neighbours Ipswich next and Manning said: “We know how important that game is. This group has shown a lot of toughness and resilience since I have been here to get good results away from home and we will be working hard between now and Sunday. The lads will be ready for it.”