Morrison Unfazed by Penalty Controversy as West Brom's Drought Finally Breaks
West Bromwich Albion manager James Morrison has bluntly dismissed the debate surrounding his team's controversial penalty award against Wrexham, emphasizing his relief as the Baggies ended a prolonged spot-kick drought. In a thrilling 2-2 draw at The Hawthorns on Friday, Albion were awarded their first penalty of the season, which Josh Maja converted to make it 2-0, marking the club's first successful penalty in 13 months.
Parkinson's Fury Contrasts with Morrison's Indifference
Wrexham boss Phil Parkinson expressed deep dissatisfaction with the decision, accusing referee Bobby Madley of being "conned" by Jayson Molumby's fall in the box. Parkinson argued that such incidents occur frequently in matches and should not warrant penalties. However, Morrison countered this view, stating he does not care about the controversy due to Albion's long wait for a penalty.
"I don't care because we haven't had a penalty for quite a long time so I'm happy with that," Morrison said. He referenced pre-season directives from referees to clamp down on set-piece grappling, noting he had yet to see consistent enforcement and thus welcomed the call.
Key Moments in the Match
The game saw West Brom take an early lead through Isaac Price's deflected free-kick, followed by Maja's penalty. Wrexham, chasing a fourth successive promotion under Parkinson, mounted a spirited second-half comeback with goals from Josh Windass and Lewis O'Brien to secure a point. Morrison praised his team's five-game unbeaten run, while Parkinson highlighted his side's improved performance after halftime adjustments.
Albion's last penalty was in a 1-0 home win over QPR in March of the previous year, converted by former loanee Adam Armstrong. The draw leaves both teams with work to do as the season progresses, with West Brom next facing relegation rivals Blackburn in a crucial match.
