West Bromwich Albion rounded off 2017 by picking up a good point to move them to within three points of safety in the Premier League.
Craig Dawson
West Brom fans have been lauding Craig Dawson on Twitter after the Baggies came from behind to draw 1-1 with Arsenal at The Hawthorns to end a difficult year on something of a high.
Alan Pardew is still awaiting his first win as Baggies boss, and Crystal Palace’s point at home against Manchester City earlier in the day meant that they went into their clash with the Gunners four points off safety.
Alan Pardew
And it appeared that 2017 may end that way as Alexis Sanchez’s free-kick seven minutes from time came off James McClean and gave the visitors a late lead, but there was a controversial twist that Pardew may be hoping proves to be a turning point in their season as they look to get themselves out of trouble.
Mike Dean gave West Brom a penalty when he decided that Calum Chambers had handled inside the box – though it did seem incredibly harsh – and Jay Rodriguez converted the spot-kick to ensure that the points were shared.

Unsurprisingly given the result, there was plenty of optimism coming from the West Brom fans on social media after the game – with many praising Dawson’s display in particular.
While he did give the free kick away that led to Arsenal’s goal, the 27-year-old was extremely impressive defensively, doing well to keep Alexis Sanchez quiet for most of the game – and the fans were delighted with his display.
Here is the best of the reaction…
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