Jay Rodriguez sets up West Brom win after Bolton fan protest delays kick-off

Goals either side of half-time by Jay Rodriguez and Sam Field pushed West Brom up to third place in the Championship in a game delayed by a protest from Bolton fans.

Darren Moore’s side went into the match without a win in three league games but took the lead through Rodriguez, who had the simple task of heading into the net from on the goal line after 19 minutes.

The visitors failed to build on their early lead, with goalkeeper Sam Johnstone producing fine saves from Sammy Ameobi and Jason Lowe either side of half-time to deny Bolton an equaliser.

Field doubled the lead on the counter-attack with 15 minutes to play, sending West Brom above Sheffield United on goal difference and within four points of league leaders Leeds. Bolton remain in the relegation zone, three points off safety.

Bolton fans throw tennis balls onto the pitch moments before kick-off.



Bolton fans throw tennis balls onto the pitch moments before kick-off. Photograph: Gareth Copley/Getty Images

The kick-off was briefly held up at the University of Bolton Stadium as fans protested against the Bolton chairman, Ken Anderson. Supporters had already made their feelings clear as they displayed banners and “Anderson Out” posters outside the ground.

Just as the game was about to start, dozens of tennis balls were thrown on to one corner of the pitch that caused the delay.

Anderson has come in for criticism from sections of the support for the way he has run the club and was recently involved in a dispute with the Forest Green owner, Dale Vince, over the transfer of Christian Doidge.

source: theguardian.com