Post by deadbat on Oct 27, 2019 11:55:43 GMT
Report below…..
Podcast
Pre match
soundcloud.com/tufty-club/tufty-club-west-ham-pre-match
Post match
soundcloud.com/tufty-club/tufty-club-reaction-west-ham-away
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The Blades remain undefeated on the road after picking up a point at the London Stadium on a rainy October afternoon in East London. Lys Mousset was the United hero again for the second successive game with a second half equaliser after Robert Snodgrass’s breakaway goal had given the Hammers a first half lead. United had been poor in the first half but despite never really getting going they created arguably the best two big chances but soon after this West Ham countered at pace and scored just before the break. The second half saw United begin to play higher up the field and were the better side for long spells and got their reward with Mousset’s clever cushioned finish. After this the game could have gone either way but the home side did miss two very good chances and United in the end will be delighted with another point.
Chris Wilder opted to make one change with Callum Robinson replacing Mousset was the United manager felt that the French striker would struggle starting two games in less than a week. West Ham made five changes after the defeat at Everton a week ago. Lanzini and Fornals both were dropped to the bench but it was a side packed full of international talent and they had record 45 million signing Sebastien Haller starting up front.
The game started with many fans not yet in their seat as the bubble machine went into full affect pitch side. West Ham enjoyed the early possession and won a corner in the opening few minutes. Snodgrass corner saw a foul but soon after the same man put a dangerous cross in that just missed Yarmolenko. West Ham won two more further corners as they pinned United back. Henderson had to punch one clear. The away side were not keeping the ball well enough and sloppy mistakes were mounting. West Ham were having a lot of unopposed possession and oddly against a side so strong down the sides defensively, getting joy on the flanks. Rice and Noble were moving the ball about well but the home side had not really created anything clear cut.
The Blades had offered little from an attacking point of view but a rare break saw McGoldrick in on the angle but his cross was overhit and away from Robinson. The other way Anderson had an effort that flew over the bar. West Ham won their sixth corner but United were able to clear the ball.
Despite being second best, United created the best chance on the half hour. It came after McGoldrick had been cynically took out by Diop which led to a booking after the play had stopped. Baldock too the ball on and his cross was cleared for a corner. From the Fleck delivery, O’Connell headed down and McGoldrick flicked goal wards but Jiminez made a great save. Lundstram could not force the rebound home as the ball was blocked. Soon after McGoldrick had another effort but his header was easily saved and he may have been offside.
United’s improvement saw a neat move with several players involved in the build up and O’Connell’s cross was turned wide of the near post by Lundstram. The keeper may have had it covered. However, he did not have the next opportunity covered as Superman style he failed to get anything on a deep cross and Robinson somehow missed with many in the away end thinking wrongly it had gone into the net. Stevens’ shot was deflected just wide.
The last 5-10 minutes had seen United create a flurry of chances and get a real foothold in the game but a sucker punch saw them fall behind just before the break. It was a long punt forward and Basham’s header fell to Yarmolenko who hit a first-time ball that completely dissected a stretched and out of position defence. SNODGRASS was in on goal and took his time before coolly slotting past Henderson. It was a real blow for United who had finally got going only to be undone by a rather route one goal in its origin, albeit with the final pass and finish of a higher quality.
United came out determined to try and force the play to begin the second half. Fleck was getting on the ball more and drove at the Hammers defence. Lundstram then sent a cross over that had to be cleared. Both Stevens and Baldock were playing noticeable higher up the field. Lundstram’s flick sent Fleck clear down the left and his cross fell perfectly for Baldock but his shot was blocked by Jimenez and then eventually cleared. It was a really good chance.
At the other end Henderson then had to make a great save to deny Anderson’s effort as he was in on goal after Norwood had lost the ball. Sharp came on for Robinson who had made limited impact yet again before Noble’s chipped effort was off target. United were now throwing caution to the wind and Baldock again found himself well placed but screwed his effort horrible wide. The wing back had wasted two glorious chances to get the visitors back in the game.
Mousset came on for Norwood and McGoldrick dropped into a ‘10’ role. Balbuena and Baldock both were booked in separate fouls before Sharp tapped home after a patient move but the offside flag had been rightly put up long before the ball was put in the net. Anderson was replaced by Lanzini as the game entered a scrappy spell of play as the game entered the final quarter of the game.
The leveller came and it was no surprise that the scorer was the man with the magic touch Lys MOUSSET. Baldock for once managed to put over a better cross and Diop could only flick a header partially away. Stevens smartly headed down and Mousset managed to cushion a perfect volleyed finish beyond Jiminez and into the far corner. The away fans behind the goal celebrated wildly.
West Ham’s complacency had been made to pay. They had been as sloppy as the Blades had in the first half and now had to raise their game considerably to try and get something from the game. They had a chance when Henderson had to smother a close-range effort from Cresswell at the far post. Not long after Rice hit a long-range effort that the United goalie had to beat the ball away. Noble came off for Forrnals as West Ham looked for the opportunity to win the game. It so nearly came when a cross from the left from Fornals was met by Snodgrass but from a tight angle it hit the outside of the post.
The goal scorer came off for Ajeti as the game entered the final five minutes of regulation time. United were now sitting in and trying to keep a solid shape but did have one break that was cleared. Back at the other end the Hammers were back on the attack but O’Connell stepped in to make the clearance. United won two corners but to the chagrin of some of the away fans opted not to put the ball into the box. They were nearly made to pay as Yarmolenko had an effort that whizzed just wide. Stevens then took one for the team as he hacked down Haller. The free kick was cleared by Lundstram and United won a free kick that allowed them to run down time and take another valuable point.
United – I don’t think we were anywhere close to our best today and still got a draw. It shows how far we have come. It was a better result than performance but over the course of the game I think we just about deserved a draw. Henderson made a few important but expected saves (Rice, Anderson and Cresswell) but then so did Jiminez from McGoldrick and also Baldock. They had more chances and of course hit the post but it was a tough chance on the angle and maybe showed more quality on the ball but we were always in the game yet again. First half they controlled things and we sat too deep. We gave it away when we had it but did not press or get amongst them like we normally do. We kind of did not engage and they moved it around nicely but they did not create tons of chances. However, you sensed they may get one if we kept sitting off and then being sloppy when we had it. Ironically, we then had a good spell just after the half hour and McGoldrick had a great chance. They then broke soon after and scored which was really frustrating in terms of us not having cover and somebody losing their runner who came off and broke through. It was an awful time to concede just before the break but on reflection about a fair score on the game and possession/control they had.
After the break we were much better and for the first 25-30 minutes we had much more of the ball, got men forward, created chances and looked like a team again. The wing backs got on the ball, the midfield saw more of it and Fleck and Lundstram started to dictate things. I felt we did not create too much but Baldock had a great chance (two actually) and you felt we could maybe nick something as we put on extra attackers and had effectively three strikers on the pitch. West Ham did not create much at all in this spell and were playing on the break and were seemingly playing more on the counter attack. United got their reward with the goal and after this you thought could we go on and win it but probably wisely we sat in more – although I was livid, we had two corners at the end and decided not to put it into the box. They did have a few late chances and you were pleased we got something from the game as they suddenly went for it.
Individually and collectively we could have played much better but we hung in and did improve after the break. Mousset took his goal very well and is proving a real talisman for us. I felt we can do better in all aspects of our game though in terms of starting games better and also ensuing that we are pressing the opponents more. When we got on the ball second half, we were also much better with it. Overall it is a really important point, following up the big win in the week and it has been an excellent week for United. We now have a big game next week. Burnley will be smarting from their latest defeat and are a very well drilled and managed side. I think it will be an extremely tough test. It is quite a pivotal game for me. If we can somehow win or even draw than I will be absolutely delighted and will cement a fantastic start back to life in the top level. Things are so tight though so lose that (and with Spurs away to come) and we could be back down the lower end – that is why it is so important for me.
Ratings:
Henderson 7.5/10 – One of our stand out players. He made one great save from Cresswell and an even better one from Anderson and then a couple of parried ones from long range (ones you would expect him to save). His handling was sound and he punched a corner away. Has recovered really well from the Liverpool mistake with a series of strong games and only conceding one goal and he had no chance with that.
Baldock 6.5/10 – Odd really as he got forward well especially second half after being somewhat reserved first half due to the shape and pattern of the game. Defensively he gave his man too much time and, on the goal, he seemed to spot Snodgrass breaking away but was too late to react. Snodgrass was the best player on the pitch and on his side so that will concern Baldock. His final ball/moment still leaves a lot to be desired also despite getting into some fantastic areas. He should have scored but took too long to get his shot away and then shanked one side. He did put a better cross in for the goal.
Stevens 6.5/10 – As with Baldock that is the poorest he has played maybe all season. Sloppy with the ball at times. Defensively he sat off and did not get close enough to his man. He was also not really getting forward much. He did improve in this regard second half but we had more openings down the right possibly. He did assist well in the goal and then took a booking for the team when they threatened to break.
Basham 7/10 – Steady performance but like with the rest of the defence were not high enough up the field and we sat too deep – although strangely the goal came when we were maybe too high and they broke with a runner. His headed did not have enough power and led to the Yarmolenko chance also. Second half he improved as did the whole team and made a few blocks.
O’Connell 7/10 – As above. I felt we did not compete and they walked though us a few times and won a series of corners due to us being almost on top of Henderson. He made a few tackles and interceptions second half and also got forward when he could on more occasions – we only saw him do it once first half with Lundstram half chance. I did feel defensively they got in more than teams have this season and the last 15 minutes we seemed to stop picking men up.
Egan 7/10 – Solid enough but again got pulled about a bit and I felt he was guilty of kicking it long too much, something we have not seen much this season. On the goal he seemed to almost jog back and reacted way too late to the danger (as did others). He was able to improve in terms of winning key battles against his man and Haller was not able to win as many headers.
Norwood 5.5/10 – Thought he was poor for the most part today. He gave the ball away two or three times and we did not see the control in midfield we have done coming from his boot normally. He did not tackle or press them and then when he had it was very sloppy. This continued second half and most of our good attacks came from other outlets. Not surprised he went off actually on the hour mark – it worked as we scored soon after from his replacement!
Lundstram 7.5/10 – Our best outfield player for me. He was decent first half but guilty like the others of not getting involved enough in terms of play on and off the ball. The best chances came from his work though – nice skill down the right and cross to the Robinson chance and a half chance. Second half thought he symbolised our improvements. Showed some lovely footwork and intelligent play in many build ups. He was busy and industrious and also linked well with others. He looks a completely different player and is now one of our key men.
Fleck 7/10 – First half thought he was never in the game. Did not make a tackle and did not get on it. They controlled midfield through Noble, Rice and Anderson. Then we started to get back into it and he came alive. Had several of those trademark lung bursting runs and this led to a few chances. He was really determined to drive us back into the game. We need to see more of that all game. He has had a really good week and the trajectory of his form is certainly going in the right direction.
Robinson 4/10 – I have given him 4. It could be less really. I will say he took up some good positions and was not anonymous but his choices when he had it were poor and he often did hide behind his man. Egan was furious with him on the goal as he felt he had lost it somewhere in the build-up. He missed a golden chance with a header that he somehow headed away from goal. He looks a long way from a Premier League footballer at the moment sadly. He is not strong, quick, does not link and is not looking close to scoring any goals or even having any efforts on goal. I would not have him featuring at the moment but Wilder obviously feels he is worth persevering but we cannot carry players at this level.
McGoldrick 6.5/10 – First half he was not really in the game as they attacked more than us and he struggled to see much of it. However, wasted one crossing chance and then also missed the close-range effort. He actually had time to take it down but opted a bizarre flick which nearly worked. Second half we saw more from him and when he moved back, he got on the ball more and started to become more involved. After we got level he was then sacrificed as we opted to hold what we had.
Subs –
Mousset 7.5/10 – What an impact. Not sure he touched it before he scored. Lovely cushioned finish and so calm and composed. It was only a half chance really. After that he showed a lovely bit of skill on the touchline and generally looked lively. Can see why Wilder is not starting him every game as he does need to work on his conditioning. Our leading scorer though and the go to guy at the moment. Been a nice surprise and I think he can get better.
Sharp 6/10 – He got on the ball when he could and tried to link things but he at times seems to be struggling with the pace and athleticism at this level I feel. Had a few moments where he kept it and played others in but not sure he had any real chances fall to him. He might get a start next week – I think that is the sort of game he could do well in and maybe him and McGoldrick may start with Mousset and McBurnie being used off the bench.
Besic – First minutes in the Premier League and he did ok in limited time. He won a few tackles and interceptions but most of his work was covering and pressing rather than on the ball as we now went to a more defensive line up to see things out.
Manager Wilder 7.5/10 – It’s a good point. He deserves plaudits for ensuring we improved so much after the break. First half as he said, we were not us. We did not really press and it was all a bit easy for them even though they did not create much. We got caught with a real sucker punch which was annoying but we were much better second half and he clearly had words. We got men on the ball, the wing backs were higher up and the strikers (certainly the ones who came on) started to unsettle the West Ham defence. Will be delighted we got the draw and finished off a great week.
West Ham – I was not that impressed. First half is the poorest we have been for a long time, maybe all season, certainly for half an hour but they did not make us pay. They actually scored when we were having our best spell. They controlled a lot of the ball but did not do that much with it. Cannot remember many saves Henderson made of note first half. The goal was well made (lovely pass from Yarmolenko) and coolly taken. However, second half they sat back and got what they deserved for this approach. After we scored, they broke out of their slumber and had a few chances but it was kind of too late. They have some really skilled players in the middle of the field and have spent a lot of money (left two big name creative talents on the bench actually) but Rice and Noble are good passers and can open you up. Haller up top has been scoring but today did not have many chances and was quiet. They maybe have their best team they have had for a while and I expect them to finish around 8th – 10th this season. They have slipped up to us and Palace at home which is odd after they beat Man Utd and I see them being a better home team than away team – not sure why as the stadium is hardly intimidating and not much of an advantage. They will definitely feel it was two points dropped but then the draw was probably a fair reflection really.
Opponent Man of the Match – Snodgrass. He was very good, lively and clever with the ball. Scored the goal and nearly got another. Always liked him actually and a player that seems to do well against us sadly. I thought Rice and Noble were neat and tidy and controlled midfield first half but then poor second half. Anderson showed a few flashes but missed a good chance.
Opponent Weak link – Not sure anyone was awful but a few were subpar especially after the break. Zabaletta is not the player he was and was caught out of position quite a bit and the defence to me looks like a line up you can get at. Second half he was constantly losing his man. Not sure he normally starts though and maybe won’t much again. They have two strong centre backs but I felt Diop and Balbuena got moved around a lot and teams could profit here.
Referee/Officials/VAR – David Coote. For the second successive game I felt the referee was very good. He got all the bookings right (2 each way for late tackles – Stevens one was really poor but necessary for us). He let the game flow and tried to play on when he could. Both goals were never going to be in danger of being disallowed as nothing in the build up at all. The Sharp one looked well offside and maybe McGoldrick may have been flagged if he had scored that chance as it was tight. The only real VAR moment was when they looked a handball near the end on us which clearly was off his chest but you still panic especially when it is so late on.
Crowd/Atmosphere/Day out etc – Another great day out and atmosphere in the away end. Although I have discovered that we have not won in London for 17 games in the Premier League (drew 6, lost 11) – not sure when the last one – March 1992 at Chelsea maybe? Anyone offer another one –they don’t count Watford as a London game. Firstly, the ground is horrendous for football. I have never been inside before but have been around the stadium and area such as the Westfield Shopping centre and Stratford station.
It is all a bit grim round the ground actually – we came along the canal and other than a few barges and pop up bars, there is not much round there apart from the shopping centre (of course there is the aquatics centre and Copper Box that are still there from the Olympics0.
We were in the upper tier and we were miles away from the action. We could barely see what was happening at the far goal – this was proved when many felt Robinson had scored when in fact it was nowhere near! The fans in the lower tier were closer but there is such a big gap between them and the upper tier it is hard to create an atmosphere. You have this almost walk way and is like a moat. It is an awful design. Even to the left there is these big sections that look like squash courts in between the lower and upper tier. The ground has no real atmosphere and with the track round, it is just a flat feeling inside. They need to do something to improve things – I know there is plans to do that in terms of the design – squaring off two stands to help bring them close to the pitch but will cost more money (London tax payers?). Not sure they can ever do anything when the backs of the stands are so far away from the pitch. Wilder and the coaches were so far away from the pitch. I think the old fella that manages them just stayed in his seat. He might have struggled to keep walking back and forth! The ground was remarkably empty before kick off and everyone seems to come in late. Inside the concourse the wind and rain blow through the open bits and it is all a bit of a jam. Both tiers had to use the same toilets and it was not big enough for the number of fans. It was miles to get down from your seat too. I bought my expensive hot dog which was nice but should be for £6.85! The facilities for a new ground were very basic. United fans did their best to make an atmosphere and were singing but it seemed to escape or not hold inside such is the design. Not impressed at all sadly. The United fans sang ‘You’re not West Ham anymore!’ I know what they meant. They must miss Upton Park so much Much more excited about Spurs in a few weeks.
The rest of the day saw us get the 6.27am train – my made mate it with seconds to spare. Went for a nice breakfast at The Breakfast Club in Holborn and then a few pints round Bethnal Green as we watched the rugby. We then had a beer at a café in Victoria Park and sat outside. We opted to walk to near the ground and had a few more drinks in the Cargo Brewery before going to Four Quarters an old school arcade bar and I got walloped by my pal who is very good at all things gaming. I am not. He beat me at Virtua Tennis, Streetfighter 2 and International Super Star Soccer. We then walked back along the canal and had a drink at a pop-up place before heading into the ground. After we had another drink by the canal at another kind of industrial style bar and then headed to Shoreditch for a few pints and some food. Eventually got home for 11pm for a final night cap in town and then home and in bed by midnight. Great to go away and not see us lose yet. Hope it continues in a fortnight.
Podcast
Pre match
soundcloud.com/tufty-club/tufty-club-west-ham-pre-match
Post match
soundcloud.com/tufty-club/tufty-club-reaction-west-ham-away
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The Blades remain undefeated on the road after picking up a point at the London Stadium on a rainy October afternoon in East London. Lys Mousset was the United hero again for the second successive game with a second half equaliser after Robert Snodgrass’s breakaway goal had given the Hammers a first half lead. United had been poor in the first half but despite never really getting going they created arguably the best two big chances but soon after this West Ham countered at pace and scored just before the break. The second half saw United begin to play higher up the field and were the better side for long spells and got their reward with Mousset’s clever cushioned finish. After this the game could have gone either way but the home side did miss two very good chances and United in the end will be delighted with another point.
Chris Wilder opted to make one change with Callum Robinson replacing Mousset was the United manager felt that the French striker would struggle starting two games in less than a week. West Ham made five changes after the defeat at Everton a week ago. Lanzini and Fornals both were dropped to the bench but it was a side packed full of international talent and they had record 45 million signing Sebastien Haller starting up front.
The game started with many fans not yet in their seat as the bubble machine went into full affect pitch side. West Ham enjoyed the early possession and won a corner in the opening few minutes. Snodgrass corner saw a foul but soon after the same man put a dangerous cross in that just missed Yarmolenko. West Ham won two more further corners as they pinned United back. Henderson had to punch one clear. The away side were not keeping the ball well enough and sloppy mistakes were mounting. West Ham were having a lot of unopposed possession and oddly against a side so strong down the sides defensively, getting joy on the flanks. Rice and Noble were moving the ball about well but the home side had not really created anything clear cut.
The Blades had offered little from an attacking point of view but a rare break saw McGoldrick in on the angle but his cross was overhit and away from Robinson. The other way Anderson had an effort that flew over the bar. West Ham won their sixth corner but United were able to clear the ball.
Despite being second best, United created the best chance on the half hour. It came after McGoldrick had been cynically took out by Diop which led to a booking after the play had stopped. Baldock too the ball on and his cross was cleared for a corner. From the Fleck delivery, O’Connell headed down and McGoldrick flicked goal wards but Jiminez made a great save. Lundstram could not force the rebound home as the ball was blocked. Soon after McGoldrick had another effort but his header was easily saved and he may have been offside.
United’s improvement saw a neat move with several players involved in the build up and O’Connell’s cross was turned wide of the near post by Lundstram. The keeper may have had it covered. However, he did not have the next opportunity covered as Superman style he failed to get anything on a deep cross and Robinson somehow missed with many in the away end thinking wrongly it had gone into the net. Stevens’ shot was deflected just wide.
The last 5-10 minutes had seen United create a flurry of chances and get a real foothold in the game but a sucker punch saw them fall behind just before the break. It was a long punt forward and Basham’s header fell to Yarmolenko who hit a first-time ball that completely dissected a stretched and out of position defence. SNODGRASS was in on goal and took his time before coolly slotting past Henderson. It was a real blow for United who had finally got going only to be undone by a rather route one goal in its origin, albeit with the final pass and finish of a higher quality.
United came out determined to try and force the play to begin the second half. Fleck was getting on the ball more and drove at the Hammers defence. Lundstram then sent a cross over that had to be cleared. Both Stevens and Baldock were playing noticeable higher up the field. Lundstram’s flick sent Fleck clear down the left and his cross fell perfectly for Baldock but his shot was blocked by Jimenez and then eventually cleared. It was a really good chance.
At the other end Henderson then had to make a great save to deny Anderson’s effort as he was in on goal after Norwood had lost the ball. Sharp came on for Robinson who had made limited impact yet again before Noble’s chipped effort was off target. United were now throwing caution to the wind and Baldock again found himself well placed but screwed his effort horrible wide. The wing back had wasted two glorious chances to get the visitors back in the game.
Mousset came on for Norwood and McGoldrick dropped into a ‘10’ role. Balbuena and Baldock both were booked in separate fouls before Sharp tapped home after a patient move but the offside flag had been rightly put up long before the ball was put in the net. Anderson was replaced by Lanzini as the game entered a scrappy spell of play as the game entered the final quarter of the game.
The leveller came and it was no surprise that the scorer was the man with the magic touch Lys MOUSSET. Baldock for once managed to put over a better cross and Diop could only flick a header partially away. Stevens smartly headed down and Mousset managed to cushion a perfect volleyed finish beyond Jiminez and into the far corner. The away fans behind the goal celebrated wildly.
West Ham’s complacency had been made to pay. They had been as sloppy as the Blades had in the first half and now had to raise their game considerably to try and get something from the game. They had a chance when Henderson had to smother a close-range effort from Cresswell at the far post. Not long after Rice hit a long-range effort that the United goalie had to beat the ball away. Noble came off for Forrnals as West Ham looked for the opportunity to win the game. It so nearly came when a cross from the left from Fornals was met by Snodgrass but from a tight angle it hit the outside of the post.
The goal scorer came off for Ajeti as the game entered the final five minutes of regulation time. United were now sitting in and trying to keep a solid shape but did have one break that was cleared. Back at the other end the Hammers were back on the attack but O’Connell stepped in to make the clearance. United won two corners but to the chagrin of some of the away fans opted not to put the ball into the box. They were nearly made to pay as Yarmolenko had an effort that whizzed just wide. Stevens then took one for the team as he hacked down Haller. The free kick was cleared by Lundstram and United won a free kick that allowed them to run down time and take another valuable point.
United – I don’t think we were anywhere close to our best today and still got a draw. It shows how far we have come. It was a better result than performance but over the course of the game I think we just about deserved a draw. Henderson made a few important but expected saves (Rice, Anderson and Cresswell) but then so did Jiminez from McGoldrick and also Baldock. They had more chances and of course hit the post but it was a tough chance on the angle and maybe showed more quality on the ball but we were always in the game yet again. First half they controlled things and we sat too deep. We gave it away when we had it but did not press or get amongst them like we normally do. We kind of did not engage and they moved it around nicely but they did not create tons of chances. However, you sensed they may get one if we kept sitting off and then being sloppy when we had it. Ironically, we then had a good spell just after the half hour and McGoldrick had a great chance. They then broke soon after and scored which was really frustrating in terms of us not having cover and somebody losing their runner who came off and broke through. It was an awful time to concede just before the break but on reflection about a fair score on the game and possession/control they had.
After the break we were much better and for the first 25-30 minutes we had much more of the ball, got men forward, created chances and looked like a team again. The wing backs got on the ball, the midfield saw more of it and Fleck and Lundstram started to dictate things. I felt we did not create too much but Baldock had a great chance (two actually) and you felt we could maybe nick something as we put on extra attackers and had effectively three strikers on the pitch. West Ham did not create much at all in this spell and were playing on the break and were seemingly playing more on the counter attack. United got their reward with the goal and after this you thought could we go on and win it but probably wisely we sat in more – although I was livid, we had two corners at the end and decided not to put it into the box. They did have a few late chances and you were pleased we got something from the game as they suddenly went for it.
Individually and collectively we could have played much better but we hung in and did improve after the break. Mousset took his goal very well and is proving a real talisman for us. I felt we can do better in all aspects of our game though in terms of starting games better and also ensuing that we are pressing the opponents more. When we got on the ball second half, we were also much better with it. Overall it is a really important point, following up the big win in the week and it has been an excellent week for United. We now have a big game next week. Burnley will be smarting from their latest defeat and are a very well drilled and managed side. I think it will be an extremely tough test. It is quite a pivotal game for me. If we can somehow win or even draw than I will be absolutely delighted and will cement a fantastic start back to life in the top level. Things are so tight though so lose that (and with Spurs away to come) and we could be back down the lower end – that is why it is so important for me.
Ratings:
Henderson 7.5/10 – One of our stand out players. He made one great save from Cresswell and an even better one from Anderson and then a couple of parried ones from long range (ones you would expect him to save). His handling was sound and he punched a corner away. Has recovered really well from the Liverpool mistake with a series of strong games and only conceding one goal and he had no chance with that.
Baldock 6.5/10 – Odd really as he got forward well especially second half after being somewhat reserved first half due to the shape and pattern of the game. Defensively he gave his man too much time and, on the goal, he seemed to spot Snodgrass breaking away but was too late to react. Snodgrass was the best player on the pitch and on his side so that will concern Baldock. His final ball/moment still leaves a lot to be desired also despite getting into some fantastic areas. He should have scored but took too long to get his shot away and then shanked one side. He did put a better cross in for the goal.
Stevens 6.5/10 – As with Baldock that is the poorest he has played maybe all season. Sloppy with the ball at times. Defensively he sat off and did not get close enough to his man. He was also not really getting forward much. He did improve in this regard second half but we had more openings down the right possibly. He did assist well in the goal and then took a booking for the team when they threatened to break.
Basham 7/10 – Steady performance but like with the rest of the defence were not high enough up the field and we sat too deep – although strangely the goal came when we were maybe too high and they broke with a runner. His headed did not have enough power and led to the Yarmolenko chance also. Second half he improved as did the whole team and made a few blocks.
O’Connell 7/10 – As above. I felt we did not compete and they walked though us a few times and won a series of corners due to us being almost on top of Henderson. He made a few tackles and interceptions second half and also got forward when he could on more occasions – we only saw him do it once first half with Lundstram half chance. I did feel defensively they got in more than teams have this season and the last 15 minutes we seemed to stop picking men up.
Egan 7/10 – Solid enough but again got pulled about a bit and I felt he was guilty of kicking it long too much, something we have not seen much this season. On the goal he seemed to almost jog back and reacted way too late to the danger (as did others). He was able to improve in terms of winning key battles against his man and Haller was not able to win as many headers.
Norwood 5.5/10 – Thought he was poor for the most part today. He gave the ball away two or three times and we did not see the control in midfield we have done coming from his boot normally. He did not tackle or press them and then when he had it was very sloppy. This continued second half and most of our good attacks came from other outlets. Not surprised he went off actually on the hour mark – it worked as we scored soon after from his replacement!
Lundstram 7.5/10 – Our best outfield player for me. He was decent first half but guilty like the others of not getting involved enough in terms of play on and off the ball. The best chances came from his work though – nice skill down the right and cross to the Robinson chance and a half chance. Second half thought he symbolised our improvements. Showed some lovely footwork and intelligent play in many build ups. He was busy and industrious and also linked well with others. He looks a completely different player and is now one of our key men.
Fleck 7/10 – First half thought he was never in the game. Did not make a tackle and did not get on it. They controlled midfield through Noble, Rice and Anderson. Then we started to get back into it and he came alive. Had several of those trademark lung bursting runs and this led to a few chances. He was really determined to drive us back into the game. We need to see more of that all game. He has had a really good week and the trajectory of his form is certainly going in the right direction.
Robinson 4/10 – I have given him 4. It could be less really. I will say he took up some good positions and was not anonymous but his choices when he had it were poor and he often did hide behind his man. Egan was furious with him on the goal as he felt he had lost it somewhere in the build-up. He missed a golden chance with a header that he somehow headed away from goal. He looks a long way from a Premier League footballer at the moment sadly. He is not strong, quick, does not link and is not looking close to scoring any goals or even having any efforts on goal. I would not have him featuring at the moment but Wilder obviously feels he is worth persevering but we cannot carry players at this level.
McGoldrick 6.5/10 – First half he was not really in the game as they attacked more than us and he struggled to see much of it. However, wasted one crossing chance and then also missed the close-range effort. He actually had time to take it down but opted a bizarre flick which nearly worked. Second half we saw more from him and when he moved back, he got on the ball more and started to become more involved. After we got level he was then sacrificed as we opted to hold what we had.
Subs –
Mousset 7.5/10 – What an impact. Not sure he touched it before he scored. Lovely cushioned finish and so calm and composed. It was only a half chance really. After that he showed a lovely bit of skill on the touchline and generally looked lively. Can see why Wilder is not starting him every game as he does need to work on his conditioning. Our leading scorer though and the go to guy at the moment. Been a nice surprise and I think he can get better.
Sharp 6/10 – He got on the ball when he could and tried to link things but he at times seems to be struggling with the pace and athleticism at this level I feel. Had a few moments where he kept it and played others in but not sure he had any real chances fall to him. He might get a start next week – I think that is the sort of game he could do well in and maybe him and McGoldrick may start with Mousset and McBurnie being used off the bench.
Besic – First minutes in the Premier League and he did ok in limited time. He won a few tackles and interceptions but most of his work was covering and pressing rather than on the ball as we now went to a more defensive line up to see things out.
Manager Wilder 7.5/10 – It’s a good point. He deserves plaudits for ensuring we improved so much after the break. First half as he said, we were not us. We did not really press and it was all a bit easy for them even though they did not create much. We got caught with a real sucker punch which was annoying but we were much better second half and he clearly had words. We got men on the ball, the wing backs were higher up and the strikers (certainly the ones who came on) started to unsettle the West Ham defence. Will be delighted we got the draw and finished off a great week.
West Ham – I was not that impressed. First half is the poorest we have been for a long time, maybe all season, certainly for half an hour but they did not make us pay. They actually scored when we were having our best spell. They controlled a lot of the ball but did not do that much with it. Cannot remember many saves Henderson made of note first half. The goal was well made (lovely pass from Yarmolenko) and coolly taken. However, second half they sat back and got what they deserved for this approach. After we scored, they broke out of their slumber and had a few chances but it was kind of too late. They have some really skilled players in the middle of the field and have spent a lot of money (left two big name creative talents on the bench actually) but Rice and Noble are good passers and can open you up. Haller up top has been scoring but today did not have many chances and was quiet. They maybe have their best team they have had for a while and I expect them to finish around 8th – 10th this season. They have slipped up to us and Palace at home which is odd after they beat Man Utd and I see them being a better home team than away team – not sure why as the stadium is hardly intimidating and not much of an advantage. They will definitely feel it was two points dropped but then the draw was probably a fair reflection really.
Opponent Man of the Match – Snodgrass. He was very good, lively and clever with the ball. Scored the goal and nearly got another. Always liked him actually and a player that seems to do well against us sadly. I thought Rice and Noble were neat and tidy and controlled midfield first half but then poor second half. Anderson showed a few flashes but missed a good chance.
Opponent Weak link – Not sure anyone was awful but a few were subpar especially after the break. Zabaletta is not the player he was and was caught out of position quite a bit and the defence to me looks like a line up you can get at. Second half he was constantly losing his man. Not sure he normally starts though and maybe won’t much again. They have two strong centre backs but I felt Diop and Balbuena got moved around a lot and teams could profit here.
Referee/Officials/VAR – David Coote. For the second successive game I felt the referee was very good. He got all the bookings right (2 each way for late tackles – Stevens one was really poor but necessary for us). He let the game flow and tried to play on when he could. Both goals were never going to be in danger of being disallowed as nothing in the build up at all. The Sharp one looked well offside and maybe McGoldrick may have been flagged if he had scored that chance as it was tight. The only real VAR moment was when they looked a handball near the end on us which clearly was off his chest but you still panic especially when it is so late on.
Crowd/Atmosphere/Day out etc – Another great day out and atmosphere in the away end. Although I have discovered that we have not won in London for 17 games in the Premier League (drew 6, lost 11) – not sure when the last one – March 1992 at Chelsea maybe? Anyone offer another one –they don’t count Watford as a London game. Firstly, the ground is horrendous for football. I have never been inside before but have been around the stadium and area such as the Westfield Shopping centre and Stratford station.
It is all a bit grim round the ground actually – we came along the canal and other than a few barges and pop up bars, there is not much round there apart from the shopping centre (of course there is the aquatics centre and Copper Box that are still there from the Olympics0.
We were in the upper tier and we were miles away from the action. We could barely see what was happening at the far goal – this was proved when many felt Robinson had scored when in fact it was nowhere near! The fans in the lower tier were closer but there is such a big gap between them and the upper tier it is hard to create an atmosphere. You have this almost walk way and is like a moat. It is an awful design. Even to the left there is these big sections that look like squash courts in between the lower and upper tier. The ground has no real atmosphere and with the track round, it is just a flat feeling inside. They need to do something to improve things – I know there is plans to do that in terms of the design – squaring off two stands to help bring them close to the pitch but will cost more money (London tax payers?). Not sure they can ever do anything when the backs of the stands are so far away from the pitch. Wilder and the coaches were so far away from the pitch. I think the old fella that manages them just stayed in his seat. He might have struggled to keep walking back and forth! The ground was remarkably empty before kick off and everyone seems to come in late. Inside the concourse the wind and rain blow through the open bits and it is all a bit of a jam. Both tiers had to use the same toilets and it was not big enough for the number of fans. It was miles to get down from your seat too. I bought my expensive hot dog which was nice but should be for £6.85! The facilities for a new ground were very basic. United fans did their best to make an atmosphere and were singing but it seemed to escape or not hold inside such is the design. Not impressed at all sadly. The United fans sang ‘You’re not West Ham anymore!’ I know what they meant. They must miss Upton Park so much Much more excited about Spurs in a few weeks.
The rest of the day saw us get the 6.27am train – my made mate it with seconds to spare. Went for a nice breakfast at The Breakfast Club in Holborn and then a few pints round Bethnal Green as we watched the rugby. We then had a beer at a café in Victoria Park and sat outside. We opted to walk to near the ground and had a few more drinks in the Cargo Brewery before going to Four Quarters an old school arcade bar and I got walloped by my pal who is very good at all things gaming. I am not. He beat me at Virtua Tennis, Streetfighter 2 and International Super Star Soccer. We then walked back along the canal and had a drink at a pop-up place before heading into the ground. After we had another drink by the canal at another kind of industrial style bar and then headed to Shoreditch for a few pints and some food. Eventually got home for 11pm for a final night cap in town and then home and in bed by midnight. Great to go away and not see us lose yet. Hope it continues in a fortnight.
