Albion’s PL2 side fell to a 2-0 defeat against a strong West Ham United at the Chigwell Construction Stadium.
An Anthony Scully double either side of the hour mark secured victory for the hosts, despite a dominant first-half performance from the Baggies.
The Throstles created a host of chances throughout the game but couldn’t find the net, going closest through a Chris Willock strike which hit the post in the first half.
Appleton’s side included Rekeem Harper, Chris Willock and young 'keeper Josh Griffiths, who had to be replaced by Brad House early on with an injury.
The Baggies dominated a hard-fought first half, creating a handful of chances.
Willock had a shot blocked at the final moment to earn a corner, which Nick Clayton-Phillips whipped onto Jack Fitzwater’s head, with Dan Meredith diving to head the flick-on just wide at the back post.
Emmanuel Longelo dragged a shot from range for the Hammers, but the Baggies continued to create chances. Rayhaan Tulloch fired a low shot which Joseph Anang saved with ease.
Willock had a shot saved moments before curling an effort against the post, as the Throstles searched for an opener. A nice set-piece routine led to another effort for Tulloch, who fired an effort at goal which Anang did well to get down to.
After the break the tide turned in West Ham’s favour. Dan Kemp had a golden opportunity which he skied from close range before Bernardo Rosa hit the post with a cross.
The hosts took the lead just before the hour mark, as substitute Joe Powell slid in a pass to Scully, who hit a composed finish into the corner of the net.
Albion nearly scored an equaliser but Jack Fitzwater couldn’t finish off a wonderfully worked set-piece which saw Tulloch race through to tee up the Baggies defender.
The Hammers doubled their advantage with 20 minutes to play, and despite a late Asomugha strike at goal, the home side held on for the victory.
ALBION: Griffiths (House 11); Meredith, Fitzwater, Trialist, Harmon; Harper, Azaz; Willock, Tulloch, Clayton-Phillips (White 83); Soule (Asomugha 81).
Substitutes: Solanke, Wilding.