JAMIE Smith wants his under-23s to end their Premier League 2 Division Two campaign on a positive note when they play Blackburn Rovers at The Hawthorns on Monday (ko 7pm).
The young Baggies have endured a challenging season, but Smith hopes they can go into the summer on a high.
“It’s going to be great for the boys to go out and play on the Hawthorns pitch, and hopefully we can get a positive result to end the campaign with,” he said.
“They’ll want to one day be playing out there every week, so for them to do it in the last game of the season will be good.
“It’s been a tough campaign, but hopefully we’ll reap the benefits next season and in the seasons to come with us having been so young at under-23s level.
“The experience they’ve had this year will hold them in good stead for the next few years.”
Blackburn won the title on Friday night after second-placed Aston Villa lost at Newcastle.
That result means that Rovers can no longer be caught as they’re four points clear at the top of the table with just one match left to play, and Smith is expecting a good test from the new champions.
“It’s going to be another tough game for us - but one that the boys should be relishing,” added Smith.
“Looking at their squad, they’ve had a settled team for most of the season which obviously helps.
“They play a very similar style of football to their first team. They’ve got two willing runners up top, they’re a threat and a danger and they’re also very hard working.
“We’ll have to handle that and match them if we want to get anything from the game.”
Entry for the game is free for season-ticket holders, with tickets available on the gate for £5 adults and £1 concessions.