Baggies boss hails Phillips and Mepham

Debutant Chris Mepham (centre) and Nat Phillips (right) team up to deny Stoke City's Ben Wilmot

Ryan Mason hailed match-winning goalscorer Nat Phillips for his defensive performance alongside debutant Chris Mepham in the victory at Stoke City.

The West Bromwich Albion manager told BBC Radio WM: "Obviously he scored the winner but probably more importantly, (he did well) in our defensive box as well.

"He was outstanding, the sort of performance you get when you bring in a man ready to compete.

"He was mature and led by example but Chris alongside him was outstanding as well. He's had one training session and a performance like that makes me very happy."

Mason said away victory was a big moment, adding: "With the momentum Stoke were in coming into the game, the positivity to come away from home, win and keep a clean sheet, and the manner in which it was done, is so pleasing.

"We showed so much personality and quality at times, and suffered when we had to, but overall it was a thoroughly deserved three points."