West Ham United achieved a dominant 4-0 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers with a cagey first half but a second half of sheer excellence, arguably Nuno’s best in his spell so far.
A nervous first half from a fully free twenty-six-man side for Nuno. Both sides had numerous chances that easily could’ve transpired into goals, but didn’t, with the Trojan Horse being the difference between both sides coming into the break.
Whilst he had a troubled start to the season, Mavropanos certainly does need to receive his applause for his performances; they’ve been off a different class as of late.
Coming into the second half, it felt that West Ham needed to get the basics correct in order to dominate Wolves. Correct ideas were being put on the pitch, but the simple aspects to achieve proved to be difficult until both Pablo and Taty’s excellence proved to be the difference.
Pablo found his own tonight. Their Brazilian footing has been hard to find, but tonight he had an edge that proved to be pivotal. His pass for Taty Castellanos’ first goal was a work of art, the placement practically took two defenders out of the game and put Taty through.
Wait for one… three come along! After Taty’s first goal, he doubled his tally after Bowen’s aggression proved crucial, and Mavropanos’ striker-esc finish was miraculous.
Remember the time Jules Lopetegui played Tomas Soucek upfront, he should’ve put Greeky up there!
Some might be quick to suggest that it is ‘only Wolves’, but the truth is, history suggests this is exactly the game West Ham wouldn’t win, but that’s table was turned. A deflated West Ham side against Leeds now turned to adrenaline hunters against Wolves.
The confidence boost for the team, for the individual players, for the fans, will be absolutely crucial for the remainder of the season.
For the time being, revel in being out of the relegation zone and eagerly keep two eyes open on Sunday, with another on Monday night. - LN
