DARREN Moore said Friday night’s clash with Aberdeen was the “perfect game” for his side.
The Baggies drew 1-1 with last season’s SPFL runners-up at Pittodrie with the Sky Bet Championship season now just two weeks away.
Aberdeen, who kick-off their campaign on Thursday when they welcome Burnley in a Europa League qualifier, provided Moore’s men with what will be regarded as their sternest test yet of pre-season.
And the boss was delighted to see his squad stand up to the challenges they faced north of the border.
“It was a really worthwhile work-out on Friday night against Aberdeen,” said Moore.
“I thought it was a good test for us.
“Aberdeen were everything we expected them to be in terms of being on the front foot, but I thought the lads managed it well.
“They are ahead of us in terms of the fitness and the sharpness because their season starts on Thursday against Burnley.
“We are still finding ours and that will come over the next two weeks.
“There is still a lot to work on but it was the perfect game for us and we will take some key points from it moving forward.
“We will get sharper and better. Players are finding their touch again and that is what pre-season is all about.
“I was really pleased with what I saw and I have no complaints.”
Moore also reserved a special mention for the 262 Albion fans who tackled the marathon journey to support his side.
“It’s a fantastic effort from the fans to come here on Friday and that’s why I went over and personally thanked them all for coming all this way to support us.
“I thank them and the players thank them for making the journey and I hope they had a safe trip home.”
Aberdeen manager Derek McInnes was a man who led by example on the pitch as an Albion player, and Moore isn’t surprised to see the Dons doing so well domestically under his stewardship.
“It was good to see Derek again.
“He’s done a tremendous job up here and credit to him.
“As a captain he led by example and he does the same up here as a manager.
“It’s no surprise to see how well they are doing in the SPFL and we wish them every success.
“I’ll be watching them keenly this season.”