The day ended as it had begun - dark, depressing and disappointing - but the intervening part was bright and very entertaining (i.e., not the football). A slightly later start for a Saturday morning enabled most London Clarets to enjoy a lie-in. Unfortunately, looking out of the window it appeared as if wellies and umbrellas were going to be required as numerous black clouds dominated the sky and the raindrops battered the pavement.
The journey from Euston continued in much the same vein until we reached New Street Station where, as if by magic, blue skies and bright sunshine welcomed us to the city. My first port of call was Drucker’s Café to indulge in one of their gigantic coffee éclairs, (very wicked and far too many calories for so early in the morning!). However, if you are not an avid real ale drinker is it an alternative method of keeping one’s strength up on these away days. Having met a friend who lives in nearby Halesowen, we were given a conducted tour around the canal side development. We paused for a few minutes outside the pub where Bill Clinton had recently drunk a pint and were shown the various concert halls and arenas, one of which was where ‘Gladiators’ took place.
One of the mills contained a Wetherspoon's, which was not too busy and we decided to eat there. Unfortunately, their two for the price of one meal was omitted from the menu until two o’clock – typical! However, the place was pleasant and catered for all our needs. We spent a good hour reminiscing about our college days way back in the sixties (I hope we didn’t bore our editor too much as he was also present on the tour). As I left the table I noticed a familiar face seated a short distance away. It was none other than mega Baggies fan Frank Skinner! I didn’t approach him as I know he dislikes talking football to strangers but I made sure he observed my scarf which was discreetly laying on the top of my bag. Everyone took a sly glance as we left the pub and to my astonishment they all said that I was mistaken – it wasn’t Frank Skinner at all.
And so on to the match. We all knew that it would be a difficult task, for with Alan Moore and Glen Little out of action there would be no width and very little pace. Their absence was unbelievable, the attack was virtually non-existent, and any forward movement that occurred was hesitant and sporadic. However, on the positive side, only one goal was conceded and with Ian Cox back in the side the defence looked a more solid unit. With a full squad, I’m sure we would have beaten the Baggies well, but injuries and suspensions are all part of the season and we have to accept it.
The travelling Clarets were in excellent voice throughout the game. Norwich also lost and therefore didn’t replace us in second position, and the temperature rose to make it feel like a warm day in June. The ground improvements had been completed at the Hawthorns and the new stand looked impressive. It was also the first time that we had failed to score a goal in a match this season. All in all it was an interesting day, a pity about the result, but we are still in second place, which is very creditable – and I’m convinced the person I saw in Wetherspoon's WAS Frank Skinner!
