New head coach Pepe Mel declared himself satisfied with his game in charge as West Bromwich Albion came from behind to claim a 1-1 draw against top-four chasers Everton at the Hawthorns on Monday.
Mel’s side were behind at the break when Kevin Mirrallas struck for the visitors but defender Diego Lugano’s second-half header ensured the points were shared.
The draw was viewed as a positive result by the Baggies boss, who was pleased with the way his side responded to going behind against an Everton team that has only lost twice in the Premier League all season.
The result moved Albion up to 13th in a congested table, while Everton missed the chance to go back into the top four following the draw.
He said: “For me, it was very good. In the first half, the team was too open, but in the second half we were compact.
“Everton is a team that is very, very strong. Tonight was a difficult match for me and my team, but to have 50 per cent possession of the ball against Everton is very good.”
Mel also revealed he is on the lookout for a new striker this month after Shane Long’s recent departure to Hull, while Nicolas Anelka is now facing a minimum five-match ban if he is found guilty of a Football Association charge for making a “quenelle” gesture last month.
Mel added: “Shane Long is out. I think the team is very well, but I need one striker more.”
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