Baggies frustrate old boss Megson

Bolton manager Gary Megson suffered a frustrating day as his former employers West Bromwich Albion earned a 0-0 draw at the Reebok Stadium on Saturday.

Megson could even count himself slightly fortunate to gain a point as the visitors created the better chances and hit the crossbar in a feisty encounter.

The visitors were seeking their first top-flight victory in 19 games and their first goal from open play since their return to the Premier League.

However, the Baggies showed no signs of lacking confidence and started the game in a sprightly fashion.

Livewire winger James Morrison skinned Wanderers defender Danny Shittu before squaring the ball unselfishly to former Manchester City striker Ishmael Miller.

The big forward made firm contact but was leaning back and sent his shot high over the crossbar.

Former Middlesborough man Morrison was causing plenty of headaches for the Trotters' defence and was only denied a superb long-range goal by an equally spectacular save from 'keeper Jussi Jaaskelainen.

The home stopper came to the rescue again moments later when Spanish midfielder Borja Valero received the ball after a flowing Albion move, but his attempted finish was too tame to beat the Finn.

Frustration was seeping into Wanderers' play and captain Kevin Nolan was extremely lucky not to receive his marching orders after escaping a second booking for a high tackle.

Megson's half-time team talk had some effect as his players started the second-half in a more positive manner.

Despite the Trotters' improved energy, creativity was still lacking and their spell of pressure failed to yield any clear-cut chances.

In fact it was Miller who came closest on the hour mark but again he lacked composure in the penalty area and blazed the ball over the crossbar.

The Baggies came even closer shortly afterwards when South Korea midfielder Kim Do-Heon struck a rasping long-range shot which hit the underside of the crossbar before bouncing down on the goal-line.

Miller was following up but somehow contrived to miss the target with the goal gaping.

This proved to be the prelude of a frenetic finale which saw Wanderers apply heavy pressure on the visitors goal.

Baggies keeper Scott Carson made a good save to deny Nolan while Kevin Davies was denied twice by the linesman's flag.

The visitors managed to hold out to claim their first point of the season, but drop to 19th in the table while Bolton move up to fifth.