MANAGER Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink was pleased with the majority of his side’s performance in our 4-4 draw at Accrington Stanley - but was left stunned that the hosts’ dramatic late equaliser was not ruled out.
The Brewers were 2-0 ahead at the break through goals from Davis Keillor-Dunn, with the former Oldham Athletic man securing a memorable first hat-trick for Albion early in the second half.
Two good goals from Joe Pritchard and Sean McConville reduced the arrears before Gassan Ahadme made it 4-2 late on. Accrington sub Josh Woods brought it back to 4-3 as the match entered added time before the late controversy.
Sam Hughes and Ahadme both appeared to be caught by high boots as the ball was flicked on for Rosaire Longelo to tap home with minutes remaining, but referee Samuel Barrott remained unmoved.
It took the gloss off what had been a much-improved Albion performance all-round, as well as Keillor-Dunn’s superb hat-trick. And although Hasselbaink was left bitterly disappointed by the late controversy, he remained happy with most of our game today while admitting the Brewers still have work to do.
“There is a lot more work to be done, but we played forward, we looked dangerous, the strikers looked really good,” said Hasselbaink.
“It was a really good performance.
“Obviously you get four goals against, and two of the goals we conceded were really poor from balls over the top, we need to manage that.
“Accrington were very good (later on), and kept pushing, and that is where we need to mature.
“Three goals I think we can prevent. But then the fourth goal is a mistake from the referee.
“It’s a foul - it’s a high foot, and it’s a free-kick. The foot is up and in his face, Sam Hughes wants to head the ball and he doesn’t give it.
“These are simple decisions and the referee is right in front of it. If I can see it, it’s simple.”
Hasselbaink was particularly pleased with the performances of his frontline, which saw Ahadme partner Victor Adeboyejo, and hopes Keillor-Dunn’s hat-trick will give him a boost.”
“Gassan played well and I’m pleased he got his goal. Victor ran himself into the ground, which is a must (for us).
“Davis needed that confidence - it’s been hard a little bit for him, he was down in the dumps a little as he was not playing his best football.
“I still think he can do even better but he took his goals really well.”