Hurzeler: We suffered to get three points

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Head coach with his reaction to Albion's 1-0 win against Newcastle United.

Bruce Talbot

2024-10-19T17:30+01:00

An animated Fabian Hurzeler on the touchline at St James' Park. 📷 by James Boardman.

Fabian Hurzeler said he was delighted with his side’s resilience as he reflected on Saturday’s 1-0 win over Newcastle United at St James’ Park.

Danny Welbeck’s fifth goal of the season lifted Albion to fifth in the Premier League as they handed Newcastle a first home loss since January, but the head coach admitted his team ‘suffered’ in the first half when Newcastle were on top.

“The first half was what we expected from Newcastle with a lot of intensity and rotation and we suffered a lot," he said. "They were better in the first half and we had a bit of luck, but we showed a brilliant reaction in the second half. My team suffered together and defended together and that is why I am happy for them that they got the result.

“I loved the clean sheet and I always say that defences win championships. We got smashed against Chelsea but we learned from that. Not everything was perfect today but in the second half our structure was much better. But the luck will come to you if you work hard and follow the process.”

Lewis Dunk holds up the ball under pressure from Anthony Gordon. 📷 by James Boardman

Welbeck was stretchered off with eight minutes of normal time to go after appearing to get an accidental knee in the back from an opponent. “Hopefully it’s not too bad but he will have a scan and then we will know more,” added Hurzeler.

"At the time he scored we didn’t deserve the goal, but Danny showed his quality. We worked the move well. It’s impressive how Danny works for the team and counter presses. He is a role model for the younger players and when you work hard like he does you get what you deserve.

“Of course, you focus on the process but you also need results for belief. Today wasn’t perfect but it was important to get a result. I think we can improve in all phases. The result was good, the performance was okay but the players on the pitch did a brilliant job and suffered together.”