Darren Moore: West Brom can build on rare clean sheet

Albion beat Rotherham United 4-0 at the New York Stadium on Saturday, and while they defended resolutely, the Millers were unlucky not to score.

Ryan Manning hit the post with a penalty 15 minutes from time after Tosin Adarabioyo had felled Richie Towell in the box.

It came after Craig Dawson and Jake Livermore had cleared efforts off the line, but Moore thought his side deserved the shut-out.

“I would have been a bit disappointed (if the penalty had gone in) because of how hard the boys worked," he said. “To see it hit the post and come out was pleasing.

“Most of the balls that came in we got a head or block on it. I’m delighted with the clean sheet.

“It’s the second one of the season but something to build on and work from.

“It’s a difficult place to come and win because not many will win with a scoreline like that. Paul (Warne) has got his team well drilled."

Although the scoreline didn't flatter a clinical Albion side, it was harsh on Rotherham, who matched the Baggies in the first half but found themselves 3-0 down at the break.

The Millers had 18 shots to Albion's 11, and on another day, might have given the Baggies more of a scare.

But Moore was delighted for goalkeeper Sam Johnstone, who kept a league high 22 clean sheets at Villa last season, but has had to wait until the half-way point of this campaign for his second.

“Goalkeepers or defenders will always be happy with clean sheets," said Moore. “For Sam, I thought his distribution was excellent again.

“He pulled off some good saves. His angles and distances were good, too, when crosses came in.

“He took the pressure off the defence. His communication was excellent, too. He can feel pleased and rewarded with that clean sheet."

Albion now enjoy back-to-back home games on Boxing Day and Saturday, December 30, but Moore has not given his players any extra time off despite the 4-0 rout of Rotherham.

“We will continue, recover the players, be in on Christmas Day and be in as normal," he confirmed. “I know it’s a festive time and a time for family, but we have a very important game on Boxing Day."