For a while on Saturday afternoon, it looked as if Albion might have the opportunity to take their battle for survival to the last day, but a turnaround at the JJB saw Portsmouth grab the three points they needed to send Albion down. That means that the match against West Ham is pretty meaningless and the atmosphere is likely to be very flat.

There has been talk amongst Albion fans this week about making a peaceful protest against the board, management and players at the gutless way in which the club appear to have submitted to relegation. The suggestion is for fans to wave something white to indicate how Albion have surrendered their Premiership status without much of a fight - I feel that it is entirely appropriate. The Albion fans need to make it clear that the club's performance this season is not acceptable and that the chairman, the manager, the coaching staff and the players all need to take their share of responsibility. And with the Sky cameras in attendance, maybe we'll make a few headlines as well.

The sight of Paul Robinson near to tears when interviewed by Sky today indicates that at least one of the players does care - it is a shame that the whole of the squad does not share that passion.

It hardly seems worthwhile talking about the match itself. West Ham are likely to field a weakened side with one eye on the FA Cup Final in a fortnight's time. As for Albion, it doesn't really matter who plays - the game is already up.


Jon Want, 30th April 2006.