JAMIE Smith believes it’s important that his players pick up where they left off when Stoke City visit The Hawthorns on Monday evening (ko 7pm).
The young Baggies, with the help of Oli Burke and James Morrison, claimed an encouraging 0-0 draw away at Reading in their last outing - and Smith hopes they can build on that showing against the Potters.
“It was a really good performance down at Reading, who had been doing really well and were top scorers in the league before last week. To keep a clean sheet was really pleasing,” said Jamie.
“Again the first-team lads who played - Morrison and Burke - showed what excellent professionals they are with their performance and also helping the younger players in the team.
“It was also good to get some reward from the performance with a point as we haven’t always got what we deserved from games this season.
“It’s now important to show those same levels of performance and build on that against Stoke.”
Jamie is also looking forward to seeing how Albion’s youngsters adapt to playing at The Hawthorns, and believes matches like this are an important part of his side’s development.
“It’ll be great for the players to experience playing at the Hawthorns,” he added.
“It’s always good to have that big stadium feel that can affect young players. It’s something they have to experience and deal with if they are to go on and have a professional career.
“Stoke will be a very hard working and front-foot mentality type team. They like to play, build possession and get players forward into dangerous areas - so it will be a very tough game for us.”
Tickets for the fixture are available on the gate for just £5 adults and £1 concessions, or entry is free is you're a season-ticket holder.