Chris Mepham praised West Bromwich Albion's resilience after a hard-fought 1-0 Championship victory over Watford at The Hawthorns on Saturday. The centre-back made his first league start since February and watched JJ Morgan's first-half strike secure three points that lift the Baggies to seventh in the table.
This report, based on Mepham's post-match interview with WBA TV, details his return and the team's current outlook. The win gives West Bromwich Albion seven points from their opening four games, with a record of two wins, one draw and one loss. They sit just three points behind early leaders Swansea City.
How did Chris Mepham assess the performance?
Chris Mepham was direct in his analysis of the narrow win. He pointed to the grit required to see out a one-goal advantage, especially after a period where he and others have had to wait for opportunities. "I think it’s important when you get your nose in front to be resilient and have it in you to get over the line," Mepham said. The defender noted the manager's post-match comments in the dressing room, which referenced the contributions of other squad members like George Campbell and Nat Phillips who have also stepped in this season.
For Mepham personally, the afternoon held extra significance. "It was really pleasing to start, it’s obviously been a long time coming," he admitted. His return to the lineup shows the squad depth the club is relying on for the long 2026/27 campaign. With seven goals scored and six conceded so far, the defensive solidity shown against Watford is a positive step.
What is West Bromwich Albion's current league position?
The victory provides a solid platform as the season develops. Carlos Corberán's side now holds seventh place in the Sky Bet Championship, having taken seven points from their first four matches. Their recent form reads draw, loss, win, win. The team's goal difference stands at +1. This early positioning is important as they target a strong run after the upcoming international break, a period Mepham specifically mentioned as a future focus.
You can track the team's progress throughout the season on our dedicated standings page. The squad will need all its resources, with winger Mikey Johnston currently sidelined, as confirmed on the club's injuries list.
What comes next for the Baggies?
Attention now turns to the next Championship fixture. West Bromwich Albion travel to face Derby County on Wednesday, September 9th. Derby currently sit 16th in the table, making it another important opportunity for Corberán's men to build momentum. The schedule is relentless, and planning for such matches is detailed on the club's fixtures page.
Mepham's comments reflect a squad aware of the challenges ahead but confident in its collective strength. The win over Watford, built on a single early goal and a resolute defensive display, is the type of result that can define a successful season. West Bromwich Albion's next test is at Pride Park on September 9th.
