ALBION’s Premier League 2 Division Two clash with Wolves on Friday night will have an edge to it, says Jamie Smith.
The under-23s boss is looking for his side to build on their opening day draw with Newcastle by putting in another strong performance for a match that always stands out on the fixture list.
“We’ll try and keep it as just another game, but it is difficult,” admitted Jamie.
“It doesn’t matter whether it’s at schoolboy level, under-18s, under-23s or first-team, it has got that extra bit of spice being a local derby.
“I was really pleased with how we played on Monday against Newcastle. I thought in the first half we were very good with the ball, and in the second half we were good without the ball.
“So in both aspects of the game I think we were good - and it was a game that last year we probably would have ended up losing so it just shows the development of the players and how last season has definitely benefited them.
“It’s important that we build on that result now. The players are at a stage in their careers where winning does become a big part of their development.”
Wolves also had to share the points in their first game of the new campaign as they drew 2-2 away at Reading.
And Smith, who is set to have another young squad available to him at the New Bucks Head stadium, believes that they will pose another good test for his Baggies.
“We’re expecting another really tough game,” he added.
“I’m expecting us to be pretty much where we were on Monday in terms of the team.
“I haven’t heard anything different, so we’ll be young again but it’s going to be a great experience for them.”