West Brom fans blown away by Josh Murphy at The Hawthorns – ‘Prime David Beckham’
Portsmouth got back on track in the Championship with their 1-1 draw with West Brom.
The Baggies came into the game having won their first two Championship games and looking to maintain their 100 per cent record.
However, Josh Murphy had plenty to say about that as he ran the show, provided the equaliser, and caused plenty of problems for West Brom’s Darnell Furlong.
And while Regan Poole was arguably Portsmouth’s best player, Murphy certainly played his part in the point.
Josh Murphy ‘vintage’ in 1-1 draw with West Brom
Murphy was impressive against the Baggies, as he provided an assist for Colby Bishop’s equaliser.
In truth, the Blues lacked attacking output, and if it wasn’t for the 30-year-old, they wouldn’t have been back in and amongst the points.
Mousinho’s side put in a real team performance, with defender Poole getting his fair share of the plaudits as he headed and kicked every ball away as they kept hold of the lead.
The game wasn’t without controversy, with referee Elliot Bell making controversial calls at both ends of the pitch, as Poole wasn’t red-carded for his challenge in the 69th minute.
The match official also failed to award the hosts a penalty when Aune Heggebo was toppled in the box.
Portsmouth were also beneficiaries of Murphy’s return to form, as he fired in numerous troubling crosses, and one found the head of Bishop in the 55th minute.
Murphy’s stats last season
- 3.27 shot creating actions per 90
- 2.78 shots per 90
- 0.27 expected assists per 90
Supporters were understandably amazed by his display, with one Portsmouth fan writing on X: “Vintage Josh Murphy.”
A West Brom supporter was in amazement at the 30-year-old’s display, saying: “Josh Murphy has turned into prime David Beckham today.”
Josh Murphy and Colby Bishop can create a strong partnership this season
Murphy crossing the ball onto Bishop’s head could be something supporters can get used to this season.
Bishop missed much of last season through injury, but he has a chance to kick on and improve on his 11 goals from last season.
Equally, Murphy can add to his seven goals and 14 assists from last season.
It is a surprise given last season’s numbers that the winger is still at Fratton Park, but supporters will be hoping to make full use of him in what could be his final year on the south coast.
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