Albion fan Robert Gilbert kept a close eye on events over a busy weekend.
He was on the spot to see how the new safe standing section worked as Fulham visited the Amex.
Standing became official after an area of the North Stand was fitted with rail seating.
The change was made over the summer but that area remained unused for the friendly against Wolfsburg.
Robert was also at Lancing on Sunday as the under-21s beat their West Bromwich counterparts 4-0.
While Shane Nti scored a hat-trick in that game, most of the focus was on playing time for Stefanos Tzimas and Charalampos Kostoulas.
Tzimas had previously had limited action in pre-season while it was a first appearance in the stripes for Kostoulas.
He answered these questions about a busy weekend and what lies ahead.
Q: What did you make of the performance v Fulham and who caught your eye?
A: Albion controlled the game whilst Baleba was on the pitch and looked good for the win. Once Baleba was subbed off, Albion lost control of the midfield, which allowed Fulham to swarm forward more easily. Just poor game management from the players and Herzeler. De Cuyper for Albion – solid and creative debut. Impressed with Josh King of Fulham – massive talent, so comfortable on the ball.
Q: How do you see the season going for Albion?
A: Quite simply, if we keep the squad fit and we could challenge for a top 8 finish. Keep Baleba and van Hecke for the whole season then Albion could be challenging for a European place or silverware.
Q: How did the new safe standing area look and sound on its debut?
A: I honestly did notice a change in atmosphere with the safe standing area in the North Stand but that could have been to attributed to what was happening on the pitch. I personally didn’t think our section (N1A) needed it.
Q: As an under-21s watcher as well, what were your thoughts on Tzimas and Kostoulas in their run-out v WBA?
One of the most expensive substitutions in Albion U21 history – some £50m coming off the bench against West Brom youngsters on Sunday! Impressed with Tzimas hold up play and bringing other team-mates into play, physically strong for a 19-year-old. Kostoulas looks to be a traditional No.10, who looks to be a strong runner with the ball, deceptively quick over the first ten yards. Both will need time to adapt to the physicality and pace of English football.
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