Wolves and West Brom players BREAK new Premier League Covid protocols as both teams hug after goals

West Brom and Wolves players ignored Premier League Covid protocols by hugging each other after their first-half goals.

Players have been told to avoid hugging, high-fives and handshakes before, during and after matches due to the rising cases of coronavirus, with sanctions promised for breaches.

Matheus Pereira gave West Brom the lead with a penalty in the eighth minute. He was embraced by Robert Snodgrass, who was then hugged by Callum Robinson - who had won the spot-kick.

Wolves equalised in the 38th minute through Fabio Silva with his team-mates also celebrating by hugging the young striker.

Willy Boly then put the hosts ahead five minutes later which led to another mass team celebration.

Just after half-time, Semi Ajayi drew the visitors level with a header and he too was embraced by his team-mates.

Before kick-off, Wolves players also took part in a team huddle.

Earlier in the week, Sam Allardyce said he couldn't promise his players wouldn't hug each other if they scored.

He said: 'Certainly jumping on each other and hugging each other is out of the question now. I’m not sure why we’re in a bubble here and we get tested twice a week that it makes a difference.

'But if that’s what the protocols are we’ll try our best to adhere to it. But I can’t promise that anyone won’t get carried away if they score a goal.'

The Premier League held a series of calls with captains, managers and key staff earlier this week after several players ignored warnings over hugging during mid-week games.

Victories for Sheffield United, Manchester City, Manchester United and Everton saw players celebrate with each other. Fulham players also hugged after equalising at Tottenham.