Graham Potter was pleased with how his side battled toe-to-toe with Manchester City at the Etihad on Wednesday night.
Phil Foden's first half goal was the difference between the two sides in the north west, but the boss hailed the attitude and character Albion showed throughout against Pep Guardiola's men.
He said, âThe performance and effort were there and I'm so proud of the players.
âWe struggled to create too many chances in the first half but in the second half I thought we improved and did that well.
âWe were more aggressive after the break - we tried to play and also defended for our lives which you sometimes have to when you come away to the top sides.
âResults are hard to come by in this league and we have to make sure we keep performing with a spirit and a togetherness which I thought we did this evening.
âIn the end it was a good performance and I'm very happy with my players. Our season wonât be defined by matches like this but there was plenty of things that give me encouragement going forward.â
Percy Tau made his Premier League debut and the boss is pleased with how he has handled his first week with his new teammates.
âHe's taken everything in his stride well and heâs enjoying his football.
âHe wants to play and improve and thatâs good for all of us, we'll keep trying to help him do that.â