Joel: I've climbed my Everest with goal!

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Defender's rare strike earned Albion a deserved point at St James' Park.

Bruce Talbot

2024-05-11T16:28:00Z

Joel Veltman said he'd climbed his own Everest after scoring his first goal of the season.

Joel Veltman said he’d conquered his own personal summit after scoring Albion’s goal in the 1-1 draw against Newcastle United at St James’ Park.

The Dutch defender’s close-range finish was only his fourth goal for the club and first since he netted in the 4-0 Amex win over West Ham United in March 2023. Albion played well, especially in the first half, but Sean Longstaff equalised with the last kick of the opening period.

Veltman, who had to go off with an injury, said, “My ‘Everest’ is one goal a season and we only had three games to go so I had to do it. It was a good corner we practiced on Thursday and Friday and when it works out in the game that’s perfect.

“I think it was a good point. We were the better team in the first half and although they pressed strongly we had some good chances to get a second goal. The second half was up and down, so in the end it was a good point.

Adam Webster had three first-half efforts but couldn't find the target.

“It was frustrating to concede when we did but we kept going. We aimed for a win, but we’re pleased with a point. Compliments to our defence, it was a strong performance.

Albion climbed back into the top half of the table with home games against Chelsea on Wednesday and Manchester United next Sunday – both at the Amex – to finish the campaign.

“We have two ‘finals’ after getting a massive point today and we’re aiming for six more points,” added Veltman.