Fans can help improve Amex form, says Potter

Graham Potter believes there are mitigating factors in Albion's disappointing form at the Amex.

And he thinks the fans will have a big part to play in improving it as the season unfolds.

Monday's 2-1 defeat to Southampton means it's now ten games since Albion won a Premier League game at the Amex and that 2-1 victory over Arsenal in the first match after lockdown remains their only home win in 2020.

But since football resumed in June, Albion have played six games at the Amex against teams from the so-called 'top six' including twice against champions Liverpool and Manchester United. Monday's defeat was only their second against teams outside the top six.

He said, “We had too many draws at the start of the year where we started well, a bit like Monday [when we] got ahead and couldn't get the second and then couldn't survive the moments that you need to survive.

“And then post-lockdown, we won against Arsenal, had some tricky games against Manchester United, Manchester City, Liverpool and drew 0-0 with Newcastle towards the back end of the season.

“Monday was our first defeat outside of the top six [this season], so it's a combination of lots of things. Our away form, on the other hand, has been quite good. We have to try to improve our home form, because clearly, the numbers aren't what we want.”

In contrast to home performances, Albion have only been beaten twice on their travels in 12 games and have suffered only four away defeats in 2020. They face back-to-back away games at Leicester and Fulham before welcoming Sheffield United on 20th December.

“If we could work that out, we would,” added the head coach. “Apart from the second half against West Brom, our performance levels have been okay at home.

“Against Manchester United, we played well but didn't win, against Chelsea (3-1 defeat) we were in the game. Burnley (0-0) we deserved to win, but we got a draw. Sometimes it's just getting that result that convinces everybody that you can do a little bit better.

“Other times, we've been a little fortunate away from home, maybe. Against Aston Villa (won 2-1), a penalty went our way at the end. I don't think there's too much of a difference, but when you zoom out, over the year, our home record is something we need to improve.”

Albion had the backing of 2000 supporters on Monday as fans returned to the Amex for a league game for the first time since February.

“I thought the fans encouraged the lads. We have missed them and we're delighted to have them back. They will obviously play a big part for us, hopefully we can get even more back into the stadium soon because they really help the team.”