Can there be any doubt about the identity of the Man of the Match? Step forward James Collins. An immense performance, especially in the second half. OK, he was lucky not to have given away a penalty/been sent off, but other than that he (or rather his head) had a superb game. I can’t remember the last time I saw a central defender head the ball so often.
Make no mistake, this was a great performance by West Ham. In the first half we played some neat football but in the second half we were under relentless attack, but managed to thwart every wave. Indeed, I can’t actually remember Sunderland making Rob Green make a difficult save, apart from a header on 85 minutes. Green looked safe the whole game, and a second clean sheet in a row will do his confidence the world of good.
In defence Upson and Collins reigned supreme, while Neill was fairly solid. He retained possession more often than usual, while Ilunga on the other side was tough in the tackle, imposing in the air and positive on the ground.
The makeshift midfield did well, with Parker performing the holding role well. Behrami was all over the place (in a good way!) as usual, while Bowyer was busy on the left. Faubert didn’t really get into the game until the second half and didn’t really ever threaten in attack. Psrker was named Sky man of the match.
Up front neither player really performed at their best. Cole struggled with his first touch and didn’t really hold the ball up, while Bellamy’s only chance was the one on one which he then passed to Behrami who blasted over from two yards.
We deserved this win.
Green 8
Upson 8
Collins 9
Ilunga 7
Neil 6
Bowyer 6
Behrami 7
Parker 8
Faubert 6
Cole 6
Bellamy 6
I have to give Parker a lot of credit. His work rate is pretty good since he’s come back. He’s staying fit and playing like he wants to be there. But i agree with the general sentiment on the board.
Not seeing the finish up front.
I may have been wrong but i was thinking that Zola tried to make sure they had something in the tank at 80mins. They didn’t seem to fly right out of the gate as they often do.
DevoDevo,
Nope I am a 100% West Ham fan I could not even look at another team,
Look Cole has signed a five year deal, Maybe we should just get behind him especially while Ashton is out.
I am suprised nobody has agreed with my comment about Bowyer, please can somebody tell me what he did during the Sunderland game other than lose the ball and putting our team in grave danger again and again?
It is Bowyer not Cole who should be getting stick I am 100% behind (Educate Yourselves) post on Cole
james u r right bowyers a waste of time,his legs have gone…..but on the positive tristans having a screamer for the res’es I,m being told!!!!