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My Albion memories: Jake Mathieson

We asked Albion fans for their all-time favourites. First up is season-ticket holder Jake Mathieson.

By Bruce Talbot • 25 March 2020

By Jake Mathieson
Jake Mathieson, far right, with his friends who are all season-ticket holders.

When was your first game? What was the score? What can you remember about the game?

My first game supporting the Albion was as a 6-year-old around 2007 at Withdean. Unsurprisingly, it was freezing cold and raining and my Dad and I weren’t fortunate to be under the one covered stand that day. Unfortunately, that’s what I remember most. We drew 1-1 and equalised with a penalty, but I can’t even remember who we were playing.

Who was your first Albion idol?

My first Albion idol was Kazenga LuaLua. He was everything I loved about football because he played with skill, flair and in ‘that’ promotion season at Withdean he was simply unplayable at times. It felt like he was on PlayStation! I can imagine lots of opposition defenders didn’t sleep well after facing him.

What is your favourite Albion game and why?

My favourite Albion game has to be the 2-1 win over Sheffield Wednesday in January 2017. Not only because of the manner of the victory but after the previous season’s play-off semi-final loss to do the double over them felt extremely satisfying and was the first game when I was convinced we were going up to the Premier League. It was a game where everyone played incredibly well and it summarised the spirit and character we had in the dressing room. The game had everything from superb goals, red cards, penalty saves and best of all a late winner from Anthony Knockaert which was fitting because of his overall display.

What season stands out as your favourite?

My favourite Albion season was our first in the Premier League because we were the underdogs and everyone underestimated us which meant every point felt that little more important. The Amex atmosphere was brilliant all season and to finish it with wins against Arsenal and, most memorably, that Friday night victory to clinch survival against Manchester United was perfect.

Which are your favourite Albion home and away shirts?

Both home and away kits from our promotion season 2016/17 in terms of the memories they hold and the shirt designs were class.

What is your all-time Albion XI?

4-5-1: Ryan; Bridge, Dunk, Duffy, Bruno; Vincente, Bridcutt, Kayal, Stephens, Knockaert; Murray.