JAMIE Smith is hoping his young Baggies can take another step towards the Premier League Cup knockout stages when they host Burnley at Keys Park on Friday night (ko 7pm).
Albion’s under-23s have beaten Liverpool and lost at Bournemouth in the competition so far, leaving them sat second as we approach Group C’s midway point.
And Jamie has admitted that, following Checkatrade Trophy heartbreak earlier in the month, his team has an added motivation to do well in the PL Cup.
“We see every competition that we enter as important, they’re all matches that you want to win,” he said.
“But unfortunately we’re out of the Checkatrade Trophy, so there is definitely a focus on trying to progress in the Premier League Cup now.
“It’s a game that we’re looking forward to and hopefully we can get a victory."
Burnley are currently sat bottom of the group after a difficult start to their challenge, but Smith is insisting his side will still have to be at their best to pick up the three points.
“They lost 7-1 to Bournemouth away from home, but looking at the rest of their fixtures that was definitely a freak result," he added.
“Looking at their league position they’re doing really well in that, and they drew with Liverpool in their last PL Cup game so it’ll be a tough game for us.”
Entry at Hednesford's Keys Park is priced at £5 adults and £1 concessions.
