For the fourth game in a row West Ham have been denied the success they deserved by dubious refereeing decisions, on this occasion step forward Mark Clattenburg in the starring role. Clattenburg and his colleagues have given conspiracy theorists a field day by their seemingly insistent desire to prevent Hammers 'sneaking' in to the remaining Champions League slot, after all the powers that be are already incredibly uncomfortable with Leicester City's current lofty position, one set of upstarts is enough, therefore don't expect Slaven Billic's team to be given any breaks, starting with Cheik Kayoute's red card appeal! Generally one would expect the appeal to be successful, Kayoute's foot was in the air, but only one foot and the tackle was in no way malicious, more the result of someone who was a little tired having just travelled half way round the world on International duty.
Slaven Bilic said: "I want to commend the players it was a good game of football, open, and we deserved to win. "When it was 11 v 11 the scoreline was correct. They caused us a threat, but only at set pieces,then we turned it around." On the decision to send off Kouyate, Bilic added:"I would love to say a lot of things. I asked the legal people what can I say and what I can't. It is never a red card and it's the fourth game in a row we are getting decisions that are costing us. "We're fighting to finish high. If the opponent is better than you, ok, but it is frustrating. We aren't going to sink or moan - we will come back and continue to play good football. "Crystal Palace boss Alan Pardew admitted that he did not agree with Mark Clattenburg's decision to send off Kouyate. "I thought the red card was harsh and I would've been disappointed to have that happen to one of my players," said Pardew. "When you are 2-1 down at West Ham, in the form they are in, you take a 2-2. I'm delighted for the team and they showed their heart is still very much in it. We've got ourselves into a bit of trouble but this is a great result. "Every point in the Premier League is gold-dust, especially to get something at West Ham. It was a great performance and a great result. West Ham had to defend for their lives at the end."
Before Kouyate's sending off, West Ham had looked well-placed to claim the three points. Despite falling behind in the 15th minute, they were only in arrears for three minutes before Diafra Sakho headed down Michail Antonio's cross and Lanzini drilled his low effort home. However for home fans and neutrals alike, the moment of the match, once again, came from the boot of Dimitri Payet, whose curling, dipping 20-yard free kick put Hammers ahead just before half time. It was his 12th goal of the season and he has also been directly involved in 23 goals in all competitions, 13 more than any other West Ham player. If Hammers do miss out on Champions League qualification, which is looking increasingly likely, then they will face a battle to keep hold of the France midfielder, who is going to be among the contenders for the Barclays Premier League's Player of the Year award. PSG, with their vast financial muscle, in particular! - Ed
