Thousands turn up to West Brom's open training session
THOUSANDS of Albion fans were treated to a sneak peek of Tony Pulis's training methods at The Hawthorns yesterday.
More than 4,000 supporters obtained free tickets to watch the open training session and the majority of those in attendance were families on their Easter holidays.
As well as watching Pulis put the players through their paces, youngsters were able to meet their heroes afterwards during an impromptu signing session by the side of the pitch.
There was also a bouncy castle, a penalty shoot out game and inflatable football pool in the concourse.
During the session, a raffle was held, giving away prizes such as FIFA shield signed by the players, tickets to the upcoming home match with Leicester, and a signed shirt.
Assistant head coach Ben Garner said: "It's a great day, and it's all for the fans. We try and put on a training session that's interesting for them with things they want to see.
"It was a good turn out, it was difficult to hear out there. Telling the players what to do was difficult. But it was a great day and hopefully everyone enjoyed it."
Joseph Houlston, a 14-year-old season ticket holder from Wednesbury who sits with his grandad in the Smethwick End, said his favourite part was the shooting practice.
The Baggies have failed to score in their last three games and Joseph was pleased to see the team work on their finishing.
Garner said there was plenty of shooting practice taking place this week, but admitted the staff saved their tactical work for more private settings.
"Obviously you're limited what you can do tactically on a day like this," he said. "They had a good amount physically with plenty of touches on the ball. But we did a lot of work the day before preparing for the Liverpool game. "
