West Brom goalkeeper Sam Johnstone admitted the Baggies were below their best in the 1-1 draw against local rivals Birmingham City last night.

Albion trailed to a strike from Jota that Johnstone may have done better with in the build-up, but he redeemed himself minutes later by saving a penalty from the Spaniard.

That was a defining moment in the game, with Matt Phillips equalising shortly after.

Despite that, the visitors couldn't kick-on and they were fortunate that Blues were extremely wasteful in front of goal throughout.

Johnstone acknowledged that when speaking to the official site and revealed how the players felt after their display.

"It was frustrating really and we know we’re better than that. We were a little bit sloppy but ultimately we didn’t lose the game. Both teams had chances and it was an okay game of football. It feels a little bit like a loss because we weren’t as good as we’re capable of."

The former Aston Villa man was also delighted with his own personal contribution to the game, with that spot-kick save.

"Fortunately for me I was able to save the penalty and it helped us get a point. A second goal at that point would have really knocked us at that point in the game."

The Verdict

Albion fans will appreciate the honesty from Johnstone here as he's not trying to dress it up.

They were poor, they were lucky to draw and it wasn't good enough for a side that want to be challenging for a top two place and he's admitted that.

It does show the character in the team though and it's a warning for the players that they need to pick things up as they gear up for a hectic schedule.

Thoughts, Albion supporters? Let us know in the comments below.

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