Redknapp backs Baggies to go up

Portsmouth boss Harry Redknapp backed West Brom for promotion after narrowly beating Tony Mowbray's side 1-0 in their FA Cup semi-final at Wembley.

He said: "All credit to West Brom, they were excellent. They passed the ball well and made a real game of it.

"In the first half we didn't pass the ball as we can and I knew they would be a thoroughly good team.

"Tony Mowbray has got them playing really well and I think they will come up this year."

A Kanu goal in the early stages of the second half was the difference between the two sides and sent Pompey through to the final in May.

606: DEBATE
"Heartbreaking. To dominate Portsmouth then lose to a goal coming from handball from Baros"
SalopBaggie

A relieved Redknapp, who has never played or managed in a cup final, added: "It was a difficult game but it's a great day for the club. I am delighted for everybody."

Portsmouth goalkeeper David James felt they were always in control of the semi-final.

"I thought we dominated the game," he said. "But the way we did it was typical Portsmouth in the FA Cup.

"We were confident we were going to win the game and I think we controlled it.

"The lads are buzzing and the whole squad is here, even all the injured ones. That's what it means to everybody."

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