Hammers split the main squad of players available into separate teams to play at Ipswich and Borehamwood this evening, a narrow win and a draw were acceptable results as players get used to the travails of playing again, although both Hammers teams were devoid of those who had been on International duty until late on.
Manchester United's tonking of Liverpool was a classic example of a pre-season money earner rather than a pre season preparation game for both teams, but you get the feeling the Reds that will be doing the damage once the season has begun will be from Merseyside.
Not streaming either of tonight's games was a strange one, surely the home teams were able to sell a lot of tickets, unless they priced them badly? That said tickets for Hammers home game against City are eye watering, even IF you can get them.
The pre season is all about building players fitness, game awareness and giving them more time on the ball than they would otherwise have. The results ARE focused on, but the overall progress of the team is more important than the results, UNLESS they include comprehensively embarrassing results.
It was hotter in the UK than in Singapore today! - Ed
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If I remember correctly
The year we were relegated, we won every preseason game quite comprehensively. Of course, this was in an era where friendlies weren't quite so friendly and many games were against non league or lower league teams with players out to make a "name" for themselves. Such were our pre season injuries from those games, I believe it was then that European games became a preferable alternative option.
I didnt go to the Ipswich
I didnt go to the Ipswich game last night,couldnt be bothered,but just seen the highlights,Big Mick is in need of help lining the ball up in between the posts.