The Black Country derby has always been about more than 90 minutes of football. As West Bromwich Albion prepare to head to Molineux this Sunday (September 20), we delve into the archives to revisit the fans, matches and memorable moments that have made this one of the region’s most fiercely contested rivalries.
From packed terraces and passionate supporters to jubilant celebrations, dramatic encounters and times when rivalry was put aside for a good cause, these pictures capture the characters and atmosphere of derbies gone by. In no particular order, they offer a look at some of the people and moments that have helped make these matches so memorable.
Do you recognise anyone? Which derby memories stand out for you? Share your stories and memories in the comments.
29. Shirt swap brings smiles as school unites for mental health awareness
Framed by cheering pupils and club mascot Baggie Bird, Wolves fan Carla Newby and West Bromwich Albion supporter Andrea Billingham share a joyful laugh after swapping football shirts at Brickhouse Primary School in Rowley Regis. The lighthearted gesture came during a special fundraising day on February 14, 2018, supporting the Kristie Rose Foundation, established by Andrea in memory of her daughter to help those struggling with mental health issues. Flanked by children proudly wearing their Albion colours, the event highlighted how the local community can put football rivalries aside for a vital cause. Have you ever taken part in a school or workplace shirt swap to support a local cause? | ©Express & Star
30. Custom craft and club pride Baggie shows off ultimate battle jacket
A dedicated West Bromwich Albion supporter displays a magnificent custom denim jacket outside The Hawthorns on January 28, 2024. Adorned with hand-sewn patches celebrating club heritage - including nods to the 1968 Wembley triumph, the Brummie Road end, and legendary figures like Astle - the bespoke attire captured the deep-rooted passion of matchday culture ahead of the FA Cup fourth-round derby against Wolverhampton Wanderers. Do you own a special piece of matchday clothing decorated with your club's history? | ©Getty Images
31. Jordao heroics spark wild celebrations in away end at Molineux
Mobbed by ecstatic teammates in front of a roaring away end, West Bromwich Albion midfielder Jordao celebrates scoring the decisive goal against Wolverhampton Wanderers on December 2, 2001. The Portuguese star’s vital strike sealed a memorable 1-0 victory for the Baggies on enemy territory at Molineux Stadium during a fiercely contested Nationwide First Division battle. The jubilation in the stands captured a pivotal moment in Albion's memorable promotion-winning campaign under Gary Megson. Were you tucked away in that away end at Molineux to celebrate Jordao's famous winner? | ©Getty Images / Mike Finn-Kelcey / ALLSPORT
32. Eruption of joy inside Molineux as Wolves draw level in derby battle
Hands thrown into the air in wild delight, passionate Wolverhampton Wanderers supporters roar with relief and celebration in the stands at Molineux on February 12, 2012. The explosive moment came as Steven Fletcher headed home a vital equalizer against fierce rivals West Bromwich Albion, briefly sending the home faithful into raptures during a hard-fought Barclays Premier League encounter. Were you in the stands at Molineux to celebrate that equalizer back in February 2012? | ©Getty Images