More chances fell the away team’s way following the restart. Skipper for the day, Charlie Blackshields took aim from distance on the volley and flashed a shot just wide of the target, prior to a better opportunity falling Albion’s way.
When the Gunners’ shot-stopper totally missed a cross into the box, Francis-Caesar looked destined to score – only to see the recovering defenders block his attempt, prior to Bray’s rebound meeting the same, agonising result.
Blackshields would have another chance to test Ranson in the last 10 minutes, volleying on target this time, but once more, the goalkeeper was equal to the shot – parrying to safety and although Dauda Iddrisa tried his luck late on with a well-hit shot, it flew past the target.
It proved to be the final act of the match, as Arsenal condemned the young Baggies to a frustrating defeat after a dominant display in Borehamwood. Still, there is a chance to end the campaign with success when the 21s travel to Burnley for their PL Cup semi-final test at Turf Moor, with a date to be confirmed later this month.
Albion: Cisse; Iddrisa, DuPont, Shaw; Maughan, Crowther, Blackshields (c), Letlat (Nelson 65); Colesby (French 46), Bray (Ntege 65), Francis-Caesar (Abudu 86).
Substitutes: Moses (GK).