West Bromwich Albion beat Norwich 2-1 in controversial Championship opener
West Bromwich Albion launched a successful smash-and-grab raid to defeat Norwich City 2-1 at Carrow Road in their opening match of the Championship season.
The visitors spent long periods under intense pressure but stood firm before striking twice in the closing stages.
Aune Heggebo opened the scoring for the away side in the 75th minute, though the goal sparked controversy as the ball appeared to strike his hand.
Jimmy-Jay Morgan doubled the advantage shortly after to secure an unlikely victory for the West Midlands outfit.
Canaries left to rue missed opportunities
The hosts dictated proceedings from the opening whistle and nearly took an early lead through captain Kenny McLean.
However, Albion goalkeeper Max O’Leary produced a magnificent stop to deny the Scottish midfielder following a sharp exchange with Anis Ben Slimane.
The Norfolk club continued to dominate the first half without seriously testing O’Leary again, while Callum Styles provided a crucial last-ditch clearance to preserve the deadlock.
Resolute defending frustrates the hosts
Norwich resumed their onslaught after the interval, only to be repeatedly thwarted by an inspired defensive performance.
Nat Phillips proved instrumental for the visitors, executing a vital block to deflect Ben Slimane’s effort into the side-netting.
The imposing centre-back intervened again moments later to deny Andre Brooks what seemed a certain goal following superb build-up play from Paris Maghoma.
Late drama seals opening day points
The home side’s pressure became relentless as Mohamed Toure struck the post and O’Leary kept out a clever flick from Kellen Fisher.
Despite the incessant attacks, it was the Baggies who found the breakthrough entirely against the run of play.
Mathias Kvistgaarden managed to reduce the deficit for the hosts in the 90th minute, but the late strike offered mere consolation.
The narrow defeat leaves Norwich wondering how they emerged empty-handed from a fixture they largely controlled.