Wolves and Albion fans put rivalry aside to back Football Against Homophobia
Wolves and Albion fans might both argue they are the pride of the Black Country.
But, for one day only, rivalries will be put aside as supporters come together for a common goal.
Both clubs will be represented at a special football tournament to support Football Against Homophobia and promote inclusivity for all in the beautiful game.
There were no doubt a few who had to look twice as Wolves fans entered onto the enemy territory of The Hawthorns to promote the event.
And while there is harmony and respect between the two sets of supporters, that doesn't mean there won't be plenty of competitiveness on the day when they will want to do their teams justice.
Fifteen teams will take part in the tournament at West Brom's academy dome, near The Hawthorns, on March 29 which has been organised by Proud Baggies, the club's LGBT+ supporters' group, and the Albion Foundation. Teams affiliated with Aston Villa and Birmingham City are also taking part, as well as Black Country Fusion LGBT team who have received national recognition and featured in a Carling advert.
Dudley councillor Shaun Keasey, who is gay and, despite being an Albion supporter, owns the Prince Albert pub and Gorgeous nightclub in Wolverhampton, has rounded up his staff from the two venues to represent Wolves.
He said: "As an Albion fan and member of the LGBT community I wanted to support the event and the staff wanted to support the event as they are all big Wolves fans.
"I thought it was a great opportunity to show solidarity between rival fans.
"It's what football is all about. I know on the day (the teams play each other) there will be rivalry but football fans are all part of one big family, whether you support West Brom, Wolves, Villa, Blues or any club."
Councillor Keasey says there is an important message at the heart of the event; that football is for everyone and nobody should feel anxious about attending or playing games.
He said: "Sometimes people think once they have entered a football ground they are entitled to say whatever they want and damn the consequences. We have seen that with recent issues with racism.
"Football is the major sport in the country and everybody should be able to enjoy it."
