[Thomas1]

I remember Stan Jones really well. Rock solid centre half and occasional captain very strong in the air and tackle used to have some great tussles with Bobby Smith at Tottenham, Dennis Law and Jimmy Greaves et al. He played around 260 games for the baggies alongside Bobby Robson, Don Howe, John Kaye, Bobby Hope, Chippy Clarke and Jeff Astle. His type of defender was prevalent in that era typically like Jack Charlton and Maurice Norman and Bill Foulkes. He knew how to defend the lines and provide for more create players. I wish we had his like today but I guess he would get sent off every game!!! Happy days and played in a great Albion team!!!

Hi Folks,

Travelled up yesterday from the wilds of Suffolk with my Grandson. Enjoyed the occasion,emotion and atmosphere but oh dear the result. It must be embedded in Albion culture that we have to make things difficult,now in my sixties been the same all through the years,whenever we have had a golden opportunity we cock it up. Why oh why did we sit back and let them come at us, bad subtition to bring Olson on, it was crying out for invention, not sitting back. Time to let Olson go me been thinking that for a few seasons now backs off to much for me. Noticed in the group of ex players yesterday the name of Stan Jones played n the early days of Jeff at centre half if in doubt kick it out usually to row Z and that was just the player.

Back to Astle Day have to admit had a few tears as I was with my Grandson and I used to go with my Granddad. Explaining to Rian that I remember well Jeff's first home game 5-1 against the Wolves, Granddad saying to me we bought a good un ere referring to Jeff. Can we say that about our two forwards yesterday, think not, long way to go, not fit to tie Jeff,s boot laces, different times I know. We both left gutted and penny less in the club shop, but enjoyed the memories, hey that's Albion and always will be. Still think we will be okay and pick up points we never expected as I say it is engrained we do it the hard way.