Here at Express & Star HQ it’s safe to say football fever is gradually tightening its grip on the office.
With Wolves and Albion both still in the hunt for a play-off place our sports reporters have their noses firmly planted on the grindstone as the season enters its crucial final days.
As the paper’s former Baggies reporter it is a little strange not being right in the thick of it, producing written pieces of paper.
But I’m off to St Andrews on Saturday to cover Blues’ clash with Sheffield Wednesday which could turn out to be the game that sends them back to the Premiership.
And, along with reporter Vicky Nash, I’m also producing daily video bulletins on all the news at Molineux and The Hawthorns.
Vicky has been given the task of presenting the Wolves headlines while I’m on familiar territory with the Baggies.
At this stage it’s impossible to say whether either team will be successful in their pursuit of promotion to the Premiership.
But as things stand Wolves can take far more satisfaction from their efforts up to this point.
Written off last summer, with many pundits even predicting a relegation battle, they have eclipsed expectation.
Our internet editor recently reminded me that I was one of the few people who actually thought Wolves could make a play-off spot before a ball was kicked in anger last August.
While I have no written proof of this I’m happy to concur with his memory and I still think the incredible character they have shown throughout the season will see them secure a top six finish.
However, I’m far more fearful for the Baggies.
There’s no doubt their current position falls way below pre-season expectations. With a mounting injury and suspension list their chances seems to be crumbling bit by bit.
Momentum is everything at this stage of this season and it has deserted them at the moment - which is a matter of major frustration when you consider the wealth of talent their squad boasts.
At present I remain confident Wolves will make the play-offs, but have no such conviction about the Baggies.
I hope Tony Mowbray’s men prove me wrong.
By Andy Toft
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