It seems as if virtually every Hammers game of late has been a 'seminal' one, right back from the astonishing fight back from a 3-0 deficit away to Tottenham that left Jose Mourinho emotionally scarred. Having 'done the double' over Marcelo Biesla's beautiful team by winning 'ugly', David Moyes's team confirmed their place as genuine contenders for a place in European competition next season, the only question being whether it will be a champions League place, or one in the Europa League.
Now that the victory is out of the way, Leeds United can become West Ham fans' 2nd favourite team as a result of the inspiring and totally refreshing way they play the game of football, they are a breath of fresh air to the staid Barclays Premier League and long may their progress continue.
By all admissions, this was not a vintage David Moyes's West Ham performance, he was almost dismissive of his team's performance that nevertheless 'catapulted' them back into the top six, in fifth place. If Leeds had not had TWO goals disallowed within the first 5 minutes things might have turned out differently, however thanks to an appallingly struck penalty put in on the 2nd attempt by Jesse Lingard, who had had earned it thanks to an industrious run, his 4th goal in six appearances, and a towering 'Les' Dawson header Hammers emerged victorious in an ugly, but beautiful performance.
During the first few minutes when Leeds scored their two disallowed goals Hammers looked leggy following their nine days off, but after that they were industrious and committed to their manager's game plan, this was a resilient performance that highlighted just how much the 'new' David Moyes has influenced the club, from it's foundations, through to it's hierarchy.
David Moyes is a 'working class' manager who earns more in a week than many season ticket holders earn in years, however he just seems to 'fit' West Ham, he has had to win the fans over, and maybe playing behind closed doors at the London stadium might have benefited things, not just because of the lack of fans, but also because 'verbal' players like Craig Dawson can be heard by their team-mates.
On the 'note' of 'Les' Dawson, how badly must Watford be feeling knowing that 'Les' is contractually available to West Ham for a paltry £2.5 Million at the end of the season?
The team can only win the games that are in front of them, it is all that fans can ask for, the rest of it is down to fate and the lap of the Gods. - Ed
Comments
you could say it was a
you could say it was a vintage performance as we've put in many below average performances over the years, but with added maturity and steel the results are being earned with a positive mindset and attitude. It's a cracking win against a tough opposition and puts us firmly amongst the European contenders. Now that we have a game in hand on the teams above us, results agst Manure and L'Arse in the coming weeks could see us propelled into the top 3 and with games agst Chelsea, Everton and Leicester to come the excitement at what the season could deliver is fueling the fans desire for some additional European holidays next year. My heart's racing as I type!! Could we put together a season ending run few of us have ever witnessed? COYI
The Back Seven
Slow start and we were off the pace but we always have a strong attacking edge. Players like Lingard, Benrahma,Fornals,Antonio, Bowen are all comfortable on the ball and can make things happen.
IMO the difference this season is what I call the back Seven. Starts with Fabs sat behind 4 players all in form, well drilled that know their duties and with Rice and Soucek playing just in front giving extra protection. Its rare that we play a team where unlike the past you always thought the opposition will cut through and score.
Last night was a great game for Fornals, particularly in the first half, Dawson as ever was solid but the real star for me was Rice. This kid just gets better and better and truly world class... COYI's!!!!!!
Great posts Fellas
Agree Dartford about the back 7,solid as you like & everyone knows their job.No weak links in this team,as for Leeds very unlucky but missed some sitters but we also hit the bar & post a couple of times.Happy Days COYI
agree 65 about Leeds, missed
agree 65 about Leeds, missed their chances but they are nice on the eye. Just short of a few players of real quality. happy days indeed!!!
Dawson has showed he can
Dawson has showed he can adapt as a centre back. Having Oggy and the now rejuvenated Diop, who himself has been immense as partners. A word on Raphinia by the way. What a player he is. No way he's going to be with Leeds next season....
You are right Boogers, I'd
You are right Boogers, I'd happily welcome Raphinia into the squad based on the way he played last night- just looked a cut above
I see
We are now happy to dispense with the West Ham Way that football should be played. Leeds aren't the first 3 points gained this season where I've thought how the heck did we get away with that. Strange indeed to hear Hammers fans enthusing over Lingards typical Man Utd penalty claim too.
Boo
Boo