13/05/2007 18:06
West Ham United Chairman Eggert Magnusson has issued the following statement
after Alan Curbishley's team secured their Premiership status on the final
day of the season with a fantastic 1-0 victory over champions Manchester
United at Old Trafford...
"This is a wonderful moment for a great football club. I feel so much joy
and also pride in the team and our fantastic supporters. We have shown that
this is a Club with a great fighting spirit and a group of players who know
how to win. To have won seven out of the last nine games is a genuine
achievement and should not be forgotten as people reflect on the Premiership
season. "I pay tribute to Alan Curbishley, who has provided real leadership
since he took over as manager. To the players, for the way they have
performed in recent months, to all the staff at the Club, and to the amazing
fans. "Once again, our supporters showed here at Old Trafford just what this
Club means to them and what they give to the spirit that we have. "Now we
can look ahead to moving forward as a club and building on what we have
achieved this season. "Of course I feel sympathy for the clubs no longer in
the Premiership but in the end I believe it is right that football matters
be decided on the pitch."
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Curbs pays tribute to victorious Hammers - WHUFC
13/05/2007 18:00
Alan Curbishley paid tribute to his West Ham United side as they confirmed
their Premiership status with a 1-0 win at Old Trafford. "It's been a
fantastic effort from the players who were here before I got to the Club,
along with Lucas Neill and Luis Boa Morte," he said. "Great credit to all of
the players. I've kept it low key, kept the training simple and the results
have picked up. "They've all played their part, not just Tevez; it's been a
team effort. We're now looking forward to welcoming players back for next
year."
With Wigan beating Sheffield United to send them into the Championship,
Curbs was proud of his side for achieving their goal of getting a result
against Manchester United in the final game. "Coming here and having to get
a result to stay up and doing it is fantastic," he said. "We knew all the
permutations as well. Whenever United created anything they blocked it. "To
win seven games out of 9 is amazing and against the top teams is a fantastic
achievement. We need a bit of a break now and hopefully it would stand us in
good stead for next year." And with all the press speculation aimed at the
Hammers this season, Curbs admitted he was relieved to let the football do
the talking. "I came in in December and things went on before I got here,"
he said. "The Premier League had their enquiry, they gave their verdict and
we got on with it. We've been public enemy number one lately but we've got
on with it, kept our counsel, and it's over. "It seems ever since I've been
at the Club we've had negative press but it seems as if the Tevez and
Mascherano affair was like a bandwagon. I thought we'd get some positive
press from the way we've been playing and we've been playing well. Now we're
all looking ahead to next year."
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Manchester United v Hammers - WHUFC
0
1 Tevez
Barclays Premiership 13th May 2007 Kick-off: 15:00
Venue: Old Trafford Attendance: 75,927 Referee: Atkinson
West Ham United completed an incredible comeback this afternoon to finish
the season staying in the Premiership with a hard-earned 1-0 win against a
full-strength Manchester United side. A solitary goal from Carlos Tevez and
an outstanding goalkeeping display from Rob Green put a dampner on the
Premiership Champions' title party on a rainy afternoon at Old Trafford. In
the sixth minute Wayne Rooney was judged to have been fouled and United were
awarded a free-kick. Rooney swung the ball in from 30 yards but it was
deflected out for a corner which James Collins got his head to. Yossi
Benayoun went on a darting run moments later and was tripped by Darren
Fletcher on the halfway line. George McCartney played the free-kick up the
field but it was too long for Bobby Zamora. The Hammers striker nearly ran
onto Nigel Reo-Coker's through ball after ten minutes but van der Sar
collected. Moments later Rooney picked up the ball in the area and cut it
back but Reo-Coker intercepted. United were awarded a free-kick as the
Hammers captain was judged to have bundled over Fletcher. Gabriel Heinze's
take catapulted off the Hammers' wall and out of play. Mark Noble played a
long ball over the top to Zamora but Patrice Evra got there first and the
Hammers were awarded a corner. The initial corner was cleared but Tevez
played the ball back into the far post but Zamora was denied but van der
Sar. John O'Shea played in Rooney but Collins was on hand to block the shot
in the 22nd minute and there was another nervy moment minutes later as
Rooney found space to shoot but it trickled wide. United continued to
threaten and Rooney played a dangerous ball across the box but Ole Gunnar
Solskjaer flicked it above the target. Benayoun dribbled up the pitch and
passed to Zamora but his cross to the far post was headed away by Wes Brown.
Minutes later McCartney went down clutching his knee and was replaced by
Jonathan Spector, whose first touch was an excellent block to deny Alan
Smith a shot on target. The USA defender was briefly winded. United
continued to look dangerous and Hammers cleared the ball off the line twice
in quick succession. Benayoun headed Smith's goal-bound shot off the line
and the ball fell to Keiran Richardson whose shot Benayoun again blocked and
Reo-Coker and Collins combined to clear. Hammers were denied a penalty as
Tevez's shot was blocked in the box by Brown, seemingly with his hands.
Green produced an outstanding save with just less than five minutes to go
before the break to palm John O'Shea's powerful header over the bar. In
first-half injury time Tevez fired the Hammers into the lead. After playing
a one-two with Zamora, the Argentine forward slotted it past van der Sar.
United had their first corner of the second half five minutes after the
restart. Carrick played the ball in but Collins headed clear. Hammers carved
out a chance minutes later as Benyoun ran up the pitch and played the ball
across the box to Tevez but his shot was wide. Collins was on hand to clear
Roooney's dangerous cut-back in the box ten minutes into the second half.
With nerves jangling there was an ominous-looking triple substitution from
Sir Alex Ferguson as he brought on Cristiano Ronaldo, Paul Scholes and Ryan
Giggs with just over half an hour left to play. Zamora was replaced by
Harewood in the 62nd minute but United came forward again. Lucas Neill
accidentally flicked the ball back into his own box but Spector cleared off
the line. Luis Boa Morte had a good chance seconds later after latching onto
a ball from Reo-Coker but it travelled wide. United went straight up the
pitch and Rooney pulled the trigger with a fierce drive, prompting Green to
make a fingertip save. Collins was booked in the 68th minute for showing his
studs as he slid in to nick the ball from Rooney's feet. Ronaldo's free-kick
cannoned off the wall and Hammers broke with Reo-Coker but his cross for
Harewood was too close to van der Sar and the United keeper collected. With
16 minutes left Tevez was booked for a foul on his compatriot Heinze. A
minute later Giggs played in a corner and Green made an excellent save to
deny Ronaldo a goal with a downward header. Green denied the Portuguese
winger moments later and he darted across the pitch and fired in a low drive
25 yards from goal. The Hammers keeper kept Ronaldo out again after he found
space to shoot but Green blocked. O'Shea skipped into the box and Boa Morte
slid in and Green came out again to smother as referee Mike Atkinson waved
away penalty appeals. With eight minutes left, Hayden Mullins came onto
replace Tevez. As the clock ticked down to the 87th minute, Harewood had a
low drive fumbled out of play by van der Sar. With 20 seconds left of the 90
minutes Ronaldo curled in a dangerous shot but it flew wide of the mark.
Green made another excellent save in injury time as Scholes fired in a shot
from distance but the Hammers keeper tipped it past the post as Alan
Curbishley's side held on for their fourth consecutive victory.
Manchester United: van der Sar; O'Shea, Heinze, Brown (c), Evra (Giggs, 58);
Rooney,, Fletcher, Carrick (Scholes, 58), Richardson; Solskjaer, Smith
(Ronaldo, 58).
Subs not used: Vidic, Kusczak.
West Ham United: Green; Neill, Ferdinand, Collins, McCartney (Spector, 29);
Benayoun, Noble, Reo-Coker (c) Boa Morte; Tevez (Mullins, 82), Zamora
(Harewood, 62). Subs not used: Walker, Davenport.
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Man Utd 0-1 West Ham - BBC
By Howard Nurse
Carlos Tevez fired West Ham to a shock win at champions Manchester United to
help keep his side in the Premiership. The Argentine - at the centre of a
row over his registration - scored on the stroke of half-time from close
range. Manchester United wasted a string of chances as West Ham fought
fiercely for their top-flight status at the expense of Sheffield United who
lost to Wigan. West Ham stood firm to pull-off an amazing relegation escape
and spoil Sir Alex Ferguson's title party. A weakened Manchester United side
were celebrating their 16th English league title against a Hammers team who
needed a point to guarantee their Premiership status. Sir Alex Ferguson left
a host of star names on the bench and there were no complaints from his West
Ham counterpart Alan Curbishley.
West Ham started confidently enough but it was the champions who had the
first clear opportunity when Rooney squandered a great chance to open the
scoring after Darren Fletcher's through-ball. Wes Brown was twice called
into action at the other end to clear his lines as the Hammers showed plenty
of willingness to attack. The home side looked the more likely to break
through and Rooney, Alan Smith and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer all had half chances
as West Ham held firm. Yossi Benayoun rescued West Ham twice in a matter of
seconds when he first headed Smith's flicked effort off the line, then stood
firm as Kieran Richardson let fly with the rebound. Tevez appealed for a
penalty when his shot flicked off Brown but had to make do with a corner,
which Fletcher cleared. Robert Green then made a superb fingertip save to
deny John O'Shea at the other end before Rooney screwed his volley wide
after Heinze picked him out with a superb far-post cross. West Ham took the
lead in injury time, the home defence failing to deal Green's long punt down
field and, after exchanging passes with Bobby Zamora, Tevez squeezed his
shot home. The Red Devils were struggling to make any headway and Ferguson
made a triple substitution before the hour mark with Patrice Evra, Michael
Carrick and Alan Smith replaced by Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes and Cristiano
Ronaldo. The Hammers were forced back by wave after wave of red attacks
which came to very little before Luis Boa Morte blazed a shot high and wide
from a Nigel Reo-Coker cross. West Ham survived several more near misses as
cries of "champions, champions" echoed around Old Trafford. But it was West
Ham who deserved the victory after a lacklustre display from the home side
with the FA Cup final just six days away. For West Ham it was the
culmination of a six week-long miracle relegation escape - that is unless
the Sheffield United lawyers have their way.
Man Utd: Van der Sar, O'Shea, Brown, Heinze, Evra (Giggs 57), Solskjaer,
Carrick (Scholes 58), Fletcher, Richardson, Smith (Ronaldo 58), Rooney.
Subs Not Used: Kuszczak, Vidic.
West Ham: Green, Neill, Collins, Ferdinand, McCartney (Spector 28),
Benayoun, Reo-Coker, Noble, Boa Morte, Zamora (Harewood 63), Tevez (Mullins
82).
Subs Not Used: Walker, Davenport.
Booked: Collins, Tevez.
Goals: Tevez 45.
Att: 75,927.
Ref: M Atkinson (W Yorkshire).
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Magnusson hails Hammers' survival - BBC
West Ham chairman Eggert Magnusson could not hide his delight after his side
ensured their Premiersip survival with victory at Manchester United.
The 1-0 win sent Sheffield United down, following the Blades' defeat to
Wigan. "I pay tribute to Alan Curbishley, the players and to the fans. I
feel such joy and pride," said the Icelander. And, in clear reference to the
ongoing furore surrounding the Carlos Tevez and Javier Mascherano deals, he
added: "It is right it was decided on the pitch."
United and Wigan have threatened legal action after the Premier League
decided not to dock the Hammers points despite finding them guilty of
irregularities over the pair's signing last summer. Ironically, Tevez got
the goal that ensured the club's survival and Magnusson added: "Of course I
feel sympathy for the clubs who are no longer in the Premiership but, in the
end, I believe it is right that football matters are decided on the pitch.
"To have won seven games out of nine is a genuine achievement and should not
be forgotten as people reflect on the Premiership season. "We have shown
this is a club with a great fighting spirit and a group of players who know
how to win. "Now we can look ahead to moving forward as a club and building
on what we have achieved this season."
Curbishley added: "Let's be fair about it, whatever the circumstances - to
come to Manchester United and win - fantastic. "I hope I never have to go
through it again and I hope West Ham never have to go through it again.
"We've been saying ever since I've been here, there was ability in the team
and we've shown that in recent weeks. It's been unbelievable."
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Carlos completes great escape - Sky
By Tom Adams - Created on 13 May 07
The irrepressible Carlos Tevez secured West Ham's great escape as he
continued to ignore the controversy surrounding his position to score the
only goal in a 1-0 win at Manchester United that guarantees The Hammers'
top-flight status.
Having been 10 points shy of safety with nine games to play, Alan
Curbishley's side completed their remarkable renaissance by claiming a
seventh win in nine games to ensure that Sheffield United would be joining
Charlton and Watford in the Championship next season.
Given the huge focus on the controversial figure of Tevez over the past few
weeks, it was almost inevitable that the Argentinian would take centre stage
yet again, and he duly collected his seventh goal in 10 games deep into
first half injury-time to put The Hammers in firm control of their own
destiny.
The new Champions - fielding a weakened side ahead of the FA Cup final next
weekend - were unable to find the two goals that would have relegated The
Hammers, but the fact that it was Tevez who became the match-winner may only
fuel threats of potential legal action from the so-called 'Gang of Four'
after the Premier League's recent failure to dock points following his
suspect transfer.
However, Hammers fans will not let such considerations dampen their spirits
and if the win at Old Trafford does prove to be Tevez's last in a West Ham
shirt, he can be guaranteed of heroic status in East London for the rest of
his career after almost single-handedly rescuing the club from Championship
football over the past few weeks.
Once Old Trafford had acclaimed its title heroes with a rapturous reception,
and West Ham had welcomed their opponents onto the pitch with a guard of
honour, the nail-biting ensued for Curbishley and his bench as Ferguson's
side comprehensively dominated in the first half.
Both Wayne Rooney and Gabriel Heinze had free-kicks deflected wide, and the
first real opening came when Darren Fletcher fed the England star in
superbly, but Rooney opted to cut back instead of taking a first time shot
and found himself crowded out by West Ham's attentive defenders.
The Londoners had little joy in their own forward forays, with Wes Brown
twice producing excellent clearing headers when Tevez and Bobby Zamora were
ready to pounce.
The Red Devils grew in stature throughout the half, and some fluid one-touch
football resulted in Rooney dragging a shot just wide, whilst Ole Gunnar
Solskjaer was also unable to find a decisive connection when sticking out a
leg at a thumping cross from his English team-mate.
Just before the half-hour mark West Ham were forced into a change when
Jonathan Spector came on to replace the injured George McCartney, and the
former Red Devil was called into action immediately as he painfully blocked
a shot from Alan Smith.
Ferguson's side continued to up the ante and, on 31 minutes, were inches
away from taking the lead when Yossi Benayoun headed a Smith shot off the
line and then blocked Kieran Richardson's follow-up.
It was a huge let-off for The Hammers, but, just eight minutes later, they
may have felt hard done by themselves when Brown appeared to block a Tevez
shot with his arms inside the penalty box.
The first priority for Curbishley was to reach half-time on an equal
footing, but the Champions should have taken the lead late on in the half
when both John O'Shea and Richardson wasted great opportunities.
However, two minutes into injury-time and firmly against the run of play,
Tevez cemented his status as the darling of Upton Park with a crucial goal.
The Argentinian played a one-two with Zamora before benefiting from a
deflection off Brown to produce a fine first-time angled finish to beat van
der Sar.
The dramatic intervention from the striker who has attracted so much
controversy meant that West Ham would have to concede twice in the second
half to be condemned to Championship football, as Wigan were leading 2-1 at
Sheffield United.
After the break, Curbishley's side looked to further cement their
advantageous position when Tevez, yet again, attempted in vain to steer
Benayoun's cross towards goal.
In an attempt to win the game, and deflect any possible suggestions of
favouritism towards his good friend Alan Curbishley, Ferguson introduced
three players who made the shortlist for the PFA Player of the Year award as
Cristiano Ronaldo, Paul Scholes and Ryan Giggs entered the fray.
The Welshman made an immediate impact as he floated a beautiful cross to Ole
Gunnar Solskjaer at the back post, but the Norwegian's header was too close
to Green to trouble the Hammers keeper.
Anton Ferdinand was also called into making a desperate clearance, whilst at
the other end Luis Boa Morte sent a half-volley thundering over the bar
after Tevez failed to reach a cross from the right.
The Portuguese winger then struck a shot against the outside of the post
after a tussle with Brown in the box, and as the clock ticked past 75
minutes West Ham moved ever closer to safety.
Ronaldo almost burst their bubble when his downwards header was grasped by
Green, and the double player of the year tested the Hammers shot stopper
twice more in the following five minutes.
In the closing stages, O'Shea was also denied a penalty despite a messy
challenge from Boa Morte, and Giggs was unable to convert the follow-up as
United continued to appeal for the spot-kick.
Tevez was removed on 83 minutes, and his replacement Marlon Harewood almost
settled West Ham's nerves once and for all when his fierce drive was spilled
by van der Sar.
Richardson clearly wanted to keep them sweating as his drive curled just
wide of the upright on the brink of injury time, and Green excelled again in
the dying seconds as he kept out a rising effort from Scholes to keep his
second clean sheet against the Champions this season.
Referee Martin Atkinson then blew for full-time to signal the completion of
a quite remarkable turnaround for West Ham under Curbishley, even if it
remains a remote possibility that the final occupation of the relegation
places could be determined in the law courts over the summer.
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Curbs relieved after survival - Sky
By Tom Adams - Created on 13 May 2007
After West Ham secured their top flight status with a 1-0 win at Manchester
United, Alan Curbishley admitted he hopes he never has to experience the
trials and tribulations of a final-day relegation battle again. In the end,
the game between Wigan and Sheffield United at Bramall Lane had no bearing
on The Hammers as Carlos Tevez's first-half goal guaranteed that
Curbishley's side will be in the Premiership next season. The Red Devils
dominated for large swathes of the game despite resting a number of players
ahead of the FA Cup final, but Curbishley was delighted with the resilience
of his side as they finally put a nightmare season behind them. "Let's be
fair about it, I know we have won all of these games, but to come here on
the last day of the season, whatever the situation with Man United and win,
it's fantastic," said Curbishley to Sky Sports. You can see the way Man
United played, they had chances, we defended, it's a fantastic result. "I
hope I never have to go through it again, I hope West Ham never have to go
through it again, but it's probably made us a lot stronger this last three
or four months. "I have been saying ever since I came to the club that there
is a lot of ability at this club and we shouldn't have been there in the
first place."
It was somewhat inevitable that Tevez should be the hero given the
continuing row surrounding his summer transfer, and the Argentinian
forward's future at the club still remains in doubt as a result of the
peculiar circumstances regarding his ownership. Curbishley admits he is
still in the dark over the long-term future of the striker, but the Hammers
boss did have words of praise for his talisman. "He has been struggling with
a bit of a groin injury all week but it was a great finish," Curbishley
added. "I don't know about that [whether he will stay or go in the summer]."
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Whelan aims swipe at Hammers - Sky
By Peter ORourke - Created on 13 May 2007
Wigan chairman Dave Whelan aimed a swipe at West Ham after seeing his side
escape relegation. The Latics saved themselves from the drop and condemned
Sheffield United to relegation with a dramatic 2-1 win at Bramall Lane. West
Ham sealed their great escape from relegation with a 1-0 win at champions
Manchester United. Whelan has voiced his disappointment at West Ham escaping
a points deduction for breaking transfer regulations regarding the signings
of Carlos Tevez and Javier Mascherano. Wigan along with Sheffield United,
Fulham and Charlton are all threatening to take legal action against the
Premier League for only fining West Ham rather than docking them points.
Whelan was delighted to see his beloved Wigan stay up, but he was sad to see
West Ham escape at the expense of Sheffield United. "I don't think justice
has been done. I wanted us to win and stay up and I'm happy," Whelan told
Sky Sports 3. "But for West Ham to stay up is not justice. "It was a great
win for them today but for Sheffield United to go down is not fair and
justice has not been done. "But our lads fought to the death today."
Asked if he thought this season's achievement was better than their
promotion season, Whelan was in no doubts saying: "Yes, you have to say so.
Getting up (is good) but staying up like this - for Wigan to do this today
is just unbelievable."
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Hammers Stay Up - Soccernet
Man Utd 0-1 West Ham:Tevez winner
Carlos Tevez provided the ultimate moment of irony in a day of rollercoaster
emotions to preserve West Ham's top-flight status with the only goal of the
game against Manchester United. If United ended the 2006-07 season as
Barclays Premiership champions, the campaign will forever be remembered for
Tevez, whose mere presence in the famous claret and blue continues to cause
upset and rancour among the Hammers' fellow relegation scrappers. Somehow,
the Argentinian forward has managed to rise above the rows which have
swirled above his head and, in first-half stoppage time, it was Tevez who
struck the decisive blow to keep the happy Hammers up. The defeat did not
cast a shadow over United's title celebrations but it cast a deep pall of
gloom over Bramall Lane as Sheffield United slid back into the Championship.
Neil Warnock may grumble about Sir Alex Ferguson's decision to leave out
five big name stars but he could have few complaints about the hosts'
determination. The arguments over Tevez could yet end up in the High Court
but, on the pitch, where the game's highs and lows should be experienced,
there was only joy for the Hammers and in particular owner Eggert Magnusson,
who has never been shy at hiding his emotions. It is hard to imagine such
contrasting emotions within the respective sets of supporters.
While United prepared to party, collecting three individual honours before
kick-off, including Ferguson's manager of the year award, and awaited
presentation of the Premiership trophy after the final whistle, for West
Ham's travelling army it was a day of shredded nerves. They attempted to
remain positive, even as the knowledge of Wigan's early strike at Sheffield
United sank in, but as the game unfolded, their worst fears appeared to be
coming true. Despite promising to play his strongest team, Ferguson left
Cristiano Ronaldo, Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes on the bench and consigned
former Hammer Rio Ferdinand to the stand. Yet, after a slow start, United
began to dominate. In Wayne Rooney and Alan Smith, the hosts boasted two
players who could give the lie to anyone who felt Ferguson's team were
merely out to do Curbishley a favour. Memories of title bids running aground
at Upton Park in 1992 and 1995 are still fresh in enough United minds not to
wish the Hammers any goodwill, quite apart from the Tevez furore, so the
home onslaught was received enthusiastically.
Rooney had already bobbled a couple of efforts wide when Michael Carrick
swung a corner to the near post when Smith met it with an astute flick. Just
as the ball looked set to drop in, up popped Yossi Benayoun to nod it away.
The Israeli could hardly be viewed as a defensive bulwark but in such
circumstances, unlikely heroes can be found and Benayoun remained solid and
cleared again as Kieran Richardson blasted the rebound at him. There was
more anguish to endure for the Hammers as John O'Shea rose to power another
Carrick corner goalwards, only for Robert Green to respond with a
magnificent fingertip save.
West Ham's spirited defiance duly received its reward when Tevez struck.
Unable to deal with Green's long punt forward, United's defence was split by
a exchange of passes between Tevez and Bobby Zamora, the Argentine
eventually squeezing into the far corner beyond Edwin van der Sar. In South
Yorkshire, confirmation of the Hammers' scorer could only have twisted the
knife into the deep wounds of suspicion inflicted by the decision not to
dock the Londoners' points over the Argentine's controversial arrival with
fellow countryman Javier Mascherano. Curbishley's stomach must have churned
12 minutes after the restart when Ferguson sent Giggs, Ronaldo and Scholes
on. All three looked eager to make an impact as the Hammers bedded
themselves in for a rearguard action.
The visitors efforts were aided by some less than accurate United passing
around the penalty area and indeed, had Tevez or Luis Boa Morte been more
accurate, the Hammers would have been spared a few word fingernails. Still,
with Green in top form, Curbishley had cause for optimism and with 15
minutes left, the former Norwich man stuck out a hand to stop Ronaldo's
powerful header before diving gratefully on the loose ball. United had more
opportunities, with Richardson and Scholes both going close. But once John
O'Shea had been denied a penalty when Luis Boa Morte sent him flying, the
Hammers could join in the party.
West Ham manager Alan Curbishley hailed his 'fantastic' Hammers after they
escaped relegation on the last day of the season. A goal from controversial
signing Carlos Tevez earned a 1-0 win at Manchester United and reprieve from
the drop. And Curbishley said: 'Let's be fair about it, whatever the
circumstances - to come to Manchester United and win - fantastic. 'I hope I
never have to go through it again and I hope West Ham never have to go
through it again. 'We've been saying ever since I've been here, there was
ability in the team.'
Sir Alex Ferguson has defended his Manchester United team selection in the
face of a bitter attack from Neil Warnock and insisted the Red Devils could
have done no more to keep Sheffield United in the Barclays Premiership.
Ferguson only introduced Ryan Giggs, Cristiano Ronaldo and Paul Scholes an
hour into the 1-0 home defeat to West Ham, while Nemanja Vidic remained on
the bench and Rio Ferdinand spent the entire game in the stands. Having
declared his intention to field the strongest side possible, Ferguson's
line-up met with fury from Warnock, especially as the Hammers swept to an
unexpected win through Carlos Tevez's sole strike which kept them in the top
flight at the Blades' expense. But Ferguson does not believe he has any need
to reproach himself and feels once Warnock has had a chance to watch a
replay of the game, he will know the Red Devils did not let the South
Yorkshire outfit down. 'I feel for Sheffield United but we did our best and
I don't think anyone can criticise us,' argued Ferguson. 'We had 25 strikes
at goal, we had four shots knocked off the line and we had a stonewall
penalty turned down. When Neil Warnock sees the stats of our game, he will
understand we were unlucky. 'The first half was a one-horse race, then they
scored right at the end of it, which was disappointing for us but they got
encouragement from it. 'We had our best team on the field at the end but we
won the title last week and it is understandable that took the edge off our
game a little bit, so in that sense it was a good time for West Ham to play
us.'
Having made no secret of the fact West Ham boss Alan Curbishley is one of
his oldest friends in the management game, it is little wonder Ferguson's
team should attract Warnock's suspicion. However, having won six of their
eight games prior to the Old Trafford trip, Ferguson felt the Londoners were
the form team heading into the fateful final weekend. 'West Ham have been in
championship form,' he said. 'They were the team in the best form coming
into these fixtures today. 'Whether West Ham should be in the league is not
for me to say but their keeper made a couple of fantastic saves at the end
and we did all we could.'
A second Premiership defeat of the season to the Hammers was not quite the
way Ferguson wanted to end the season but he reported no fresh injury
concerns ahead of next Saturday's FA Cup Final showdown with Chelsea, so
Gary Neville and Louis Saha remain his only doubts. Neville donned his
United shirt at the end to lift the trophy with Giggs, confirming the Red
Devils' ninth championship under Ferguson and their 16th overall. And, with
the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Wayne Rooney yet to reach their prime,
Ferguson believes there will be plenty more to come. 'This is the one we
wanted,' said the Scot.
'My players showed real courage and resilience to come through, especially
when we were down to 14 players towards the end of the season. 'There is no
question they will come on for what they have achieved this season. 'They
know what it is all about now and I am looking forward to watching this
young team develop.'
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Does Life Get Better Than This???? - West Ham Till I Die
May 13th, 2007
I'm still in tears as I type this. I can't believe we did it, yet bizarrely
throughoiut the whole game I never doubted we would. And it's not often I
feel that way about West Ham. I'll write something proper later when I have
calmed down, but in the meantime, let me know in the comments what today
means to you!
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Manchester United Match Report - West Ham Till I Die
May 13th, 2007
I went to Old Trafford in 2001 when we won with a Jermaine Defoe goal. I
vowed never to go back, as I didn;t think that day could ever be matched.
How wrong was I? Just as wrong about my predicition in March that we were
dead and buried. That's what being a West Ham fan is all about. Fortunes
always hiding. Whatever the next few weeks might bring in terms of legal
action, no one can take away from the team what they have achieved over the
last nine games. It's championship winning form - seven wins in nine. Now,
to the game.
Lest anyone forget, we have become the first team in thirty years to do the
double over Man U and Arsenal in the same season. An Amazing achievement. It
is very rare that I have confidence West Ham will get the result that they
need, but I sat at home watching Sky Sports and I was much calmer than I
expected to be. As the game went on, my confidence never wavered. Even when
the three super subs came on for Man U I still thought we would do it. In
fact, it was at that point that Man U seemed to get weaker.
Every single player today played a blinder. Robert Green and James Collins
were immense in defence. The midfield were stalwart. Even Boa Morte put in
some good tackles. He could also have had a couple of goals too. Tevez was
all over the pitch. His industry symobolised what a great team performance
this was.
Green - 10 Simply outstanding. Saved two dead cert goals
Collins - 10 Best game of the season. Never put a foot wrong. Dealt with
everything thrown at him
Ferdinand - 8 Solid - has learnt to hoof the ball when needed
McCartney - 6 Had to go off which was a shame
Spector - 7 Replaced McCartney and did everything asked of him
Neill - 8 An immense player. Should be captain next season
Noble - 8 My favourtie West Ham player - his commitment inspired the others
Reo Coker - 8 Tough tackling and some surging runs
Tevez - 9 Need I say anymore? I hope he stays, but I suspect he won't
Zamora - 8 A hero on the right of midfield
Boa Morte - 8 Best game so far. Should have had two goals
Harewood - 7 Came on as sub for 20 minutes and held the ball up well.
Heros.
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Has Reo Coker Done a Defoe? - West Ham Till I Die
May 13th, 2007
Radio 5 Live is reporting that Nigel Reo Coker has told BBC TV News that he
"doesn't know" if he will be at West Ham next season. Why on earth do
footballers make these kind of elementary PR mistakes. My own view is that
if we can sell him for more than £8 million we should cash in. If his
heart's not with us he might as well go. But what a bloody stupid thing for
a team captain to say only a few minutes after one of West Ham's greatest
ever victories.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Season's Markings - West Ham Till I Die
May 13th, 2007
1. Roy Carroll 5 - Terrible
2. Lucas Neill 8 - Inspirational
3. Paul Konchesky 5 - A shadow of his former self
4. Danny Gabbidon 6 - Injury prone
5. Anton Ferdinand 6 - Too much of the big I am
6. George McCartney 8 - A surprising success
7. Christian Dailly 6 - had two good games. The rest were shite
8. Teddy Sheringham 6 - Rescued us in two games but a disruptive influence
9. Dean Ashton 0 - What might have been…
10. Marlon Harewood 6 - A shadow of his former self
11. Matthew Etherington 6 - Off field gambling problems affected him
12. Carlton Cole 5 - Great start… then nothing
13. Luis Boa Morte 5 - Waste of money, but improved towards the end
14. John Paintsil 5 - Never got a chance to show what he could do
15. Yossi Benayoun 7 -Inspirational … when he wanted to be
17. Hayden Mullins 6 - Sadly out of sorts
18. Jonathan Spector 8 - Solid and dependable
19. James Collins 8 - Established himself in the last quarter with immense
performances
20. Nigel Reo-Coker 7 - Only played when he wanted to
21. Robert Green 9 - Why on earth did Carroll play any games?! Green was
fantastic
23. Jimy Walker 0 - Good for team spirit!
24. Mark Noble 9 - If he had played earlier we would have been out of
trouble earlier
25. Bobby Zamora 8 - His best season yet both in goals and teamplay
26. Shaun Newton 4 - Truly terrible
27. Calum Davenport 6 - Not lived up to his last stint here
28. Kyel Reid 0 - On loan. Good prospect
29. Lee Bowyer 6 - Started well but too often drifted out of games. And no
goals.
32. Carlos Tevez 9 - Anything I say is superfluous
33. Nigel Quashie 5 - Why on why oh why?
35. Matthew Upson 0 - Injuries were really unfortunate
37. Kepa Blanco 6 - Didn't really get a chance to show us what he could
Tomorrow I will do a list of who I think we should sell, and at what price…
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Tevez strikes the decisive blow for Hammers - This Is London
13.05.07
Carlos Tevez provided the ultimate moment of irony in a day of rollercoaster
emotions to preserve West Ham's top flight status. If Manchester United
ended the 2006-07 season as Barclays Premiership champions, the campaign
will forever be remembered for Tevez, whose mere presence in the famous
claret and blue continues to cause upset and rancour among the Hammers'
fellow relegation scrappers. Somehow, the Argentinian forward has managed to
rise above the rows which have swirled above his head and, in first-half
stoppage time, it was Tevez who struck the decisive blow to keep the happy
Hammers up.
The defeat did not cast a shadow over United's title celebrations but it
cast a deep pall of gloom over Bramall Lane as Sheffield United slid back
into the Championship. Neil Warnock may grumble about Sir Alex Ferguson's
decision to leave out five big name stars but he could have few complaints
about the hosts' determination. The arguments over Tevez could yet end up in
the High Court but, on the pitch, where the game's highs and lows should be
experienced, there was only joy for the Hammers and in particular owner
Eggert Magnusson, who has never been shy at hiding his emotions. It is hard
to imagine such contrasting emotions within the respective sets of
supporters. While United prepared to party, collecting three individual
honours before kick-off, including Ferguson's manager of the year award, and
awaited presentation of the Premiership trophy after the final whistle, for
West Ham's travelling army it was a day of shredded nerves. They attempted
to remain positive, even as the knowledge of Wigan's early strike at
Sheffield United sank in, but as the game unfolded, their worst fears
appeared to be coming true. Despite promising to play his strongest team,
Ferguson left Cristiano Ronaldo, Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes on the bench
and consigned former Hammer Rio Ferdinand to the stand. Yet, after a slow
start, United began to dominate.
In Wayne Rooney and Alan Smith, the hosts boasted two players who could give
the lie to anyone who felt Ferguson's team were merely out to do Curbishley
a favour. Memories of title bids running aground at Upton Park in 1992 and
1995 are still fresh in enough United minds not to wish the Hammers any
goodwill, quite apart from the Tevez furore, so the home onslaught was
received enthusiastically. Rooney had already bobbled a couple of efforts
wide when Michael Carrick swung a corner to the near post when Smith met it
with an astute flick. Just as the ball looked set to drop in, up popped
Yossi Benayoun to nod it away. The Israeli could hardly be viewed as a
defensive bulwark but in such circumstances, unlikely heroes can be found
and Benayoun remained solid and cleared again as Kieran Richardson blasted
the rebound at him. There was more anguish to endure for the Hammers as John
O'Shea rose to power another Carrick corner goalwards, only for Robert Green
to respond with a magnificent fingertip save. West Ham's spirited defiance
duly received its reward when Tevez struck. Unable to deal with Green's long
punt forward, United's defence was split by a exchange of passes between
Tevez and Bobby Zamora, the Argentine eventually squeezing into the far
corner beyond Edwin van der Sar.
In South Yorkshire, confirmation of the Hammers' scorer could only have
twisted the knife into the deep wounds of suspicion inflicted by the
decision not to dock the Londoners' points over the Argentine's
controversial arrival with fellow countryman Javier Mascherano. Curbishley's
stomach must have churned 12 minutes after the restart when Ferguson sent
Giggs, Ronaldo and Scholes on. All three looked eager to make an impact as
the Hammers bedded themselves in for a rearguard action. The visitors
efforts were aided by some less than accurate United passing around the
penalty area and indeed, had Tevez or Luis Boa Morte been more accurate, the
Hammers would have been spared a few word fingernails. Still, with Green in
top form, Curbishley had cause for optimism and with 15 minutes left, the
former Norwich man stuck out a hand to stop Ronaldo's powerful header before
diving gratefully on the loose ball. United had more opportunities, with
Richardson and Scholes both going close. But once John O'Shea had been
denied a penalty when Luis Boa Morte sent him flying, the Hammers could join
in the party.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Curbs: Rivals lost their focus - teamTalk
Alan Curbishley accused West Ham's relegation rivals of losing focus amid
the inquiry into the Carlos Tevez-Javier Mascherano registration row. In an
ironic and bitter twist as far as Sheffield United were concerned, Tevez
scored the goal which kept the Hammers up at Old Trafford as the Londoners
beat champions Manchester United 1-0 to preserve their Premiership status.
With Wigan chairman Dave Whelan insisting the fight to have West Ham docked
points in addition to the hefty £5.5million fine imposed by the independent
commission that sat in judgement over the illegal deal which saw Tevez and
Mascherano arrive at Upton Park in August, it may be some time before
Curbishley knows for certain he can plan for another top flight campaign.
However, the former Charlton chief is confident the inquiry verdict will not
be overturned and feels the likes of Wigan and Sheffield United have spent
too much time talking about it. "It is out of my hands but I do not think
the decision will be overturned," he said. "It is something that happened
before I got to the club but the Premier League have had their inquiry and
given their verdict. "All we could do was concentrate on playing football
but maybe other people have concentrated on it (the verdict) a bit too
much."
Curbishley was acutely aware the widespread anger at the relatively lenient
punishment West Ham received meant most neutral observers would have been
happy if his club had gone down. However, after an epic run of seven wins
from the final nine games, he was able to salute his players anyway. "We
have been public enemy number one," he said. "It has dragged on a lot and we
have received another barrage of criticism this week. "It seems ever since I
have been at the club there has been negative publicity. "We have
contributed to some of that with our form and a few other things that have
made their way into the papers but it seems the signings of Carlos Tevez and
Javier Mascherano were the start of the bandwagon. "A couple of weeks ago I
wondered if we might get some positive press but I am sure that will not be
the case. "Yet to get seven wins out of nine games is an unbelievable
achievement. Every time Manchester United had a shot we managed to get a
block on it or a body in the way."
Knowing a Wigan win would send the Hammers down if they lost, Curbishley
tried to keep up with events at Bramall Lane, only to hear conflicting
stories as the drama unfolded. Howevr, when Robert Green made a stupendous
save to deny Cristiano Ronaldo his heart was in his mouth, especially as he
knew by then Wigan were in front. "At that stage, the game was still in the
balance," he said. "Everyone was saying Manchester United would beat us and
our future would be decided at Bramall Lane. "But we said all week if we
didn't approach the game in the right way the whole thing could come back
and bite us. "We needed something and got it. Sheffield United needed
something and didn't get it, which shows how difficult it is."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Curbs salutes 'fantastic' Hammers - teamTalk
West Ham manager Alan Curbishley hailed his "fantastic" Hammers after they
escaped relegation on the last day of the season. A goal from controversial
signing Carlos Tevez earned a 1-0 win at Manchester United on Sunday and
reprieve from the drop. And Curbishley said: "Let's be fair about it,
whatever the circumstances - to come to Manchester United and win -
fantastic. "I hope I never have to go through it again and I hope West Ham
never have to go through it again. "We've been saying ever since I've been
here, there was ability in the team."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Whelan: West Ham should have gone - TeamTalk
Wigan chairman Dave Whelan was delighted to see Latics survive in the
Premiership but insisted "justice had not been done". Wigan preserved their
top-flight status with a 2-1 win away to Sheffield United. In a relegation
decider, it was the Blades who were sent down after starting the day needing
just a point to stay up. But after West Ham - who are still the subject of
potential legal action from United, Wigan, Fulham and Charlton for the
controversial signings of Javier Mascherano and Carlos Tevez - remained in
the division, Whelan was sorry to see Neil Warnock's men relegated. "I don't
think justice has been done. I wanted us to win and stay up and I'm happy,"
Whelan told Sky Sports 3. "But for West Ham to stay up is not justice. "It
was a great win for them today but for Sheffield United to go down is not
fair and justice has not been done. But our lads fought to the death today."
Asked if he thought this season's achievement was better than their
promotion season, Whelan was unequivocal. "Yes, you have to say so. Getting
up (is good) but staying up like this - for Wigan to do this today is just
unbelievable." Paul Jewell, who was palpably under pressure as he argued
with officials during five minutes of injury-time, was proud of his players.
"We played well, it was backs-to-the-wall stuff," he said. "We defended
manfully - something we haven't always done this season. "I always thought
there'd be some twists and turns and it's an amazing achievement. "We've
shown everyone, the so-called experts. I've forgotten more about football
than they've ever known."
David Unsworth, who joined Latics on a free from United in January, scored
the winner from the penalty spot after goals from Paul Scharner and Jon
Stead, and Jewell believes his display was exemplary. "He was great. He
epitomised us today. It was backs to the wall stuff and it's been great."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Man Utd 0 West Ham 1 - The Sun
May 13, 2007
CARLOS TEVEZ provided the ultimate moment of irony in a day of rollercoaster
emotions to preserve West Ham's top flight status. If Manchester United
ended the 2006-07 season as Barclays Premiership champions, the campaign
will forever be remembered for Tevez, whose mere presence in the famous
claret and blue continues to cause upset and rancour among the Hammers'
fellow relegation scrappers. Somehow, the Argentinian forward has managed to
rise above the rows which have swirled above his head and, in first-half
stoppage time, it was Tevez who struck the decisive blow to keep the happy
Hammers up. The defeat did not cast a shadow over United's title
celebrations but it cast a deep pall of gloom over Bramall Lane as Sheffield
United slid back into the Championship. Neil Warnock may grumble about Sir
Alex Ferguson's decision to leave out five big name stars but he could have
few complaints about the hosts' determination. The arguments over Tevez
could yet end up in the High Court but, on the pitch, where the game's highs
and lows should be experienced, there was only joy for the Hammers and in
particular owner Eggert Magnusson, who has never been shy at hiding his
emotions. It is hard to imagine such contrasting emotions within the
respective sets of supporters. While United prepared to party, collecting
three individual honours before kick-off, including Ferguson's manager of
the year award, and awaited presentation of the Premiership trophy after the
final whistle, for West Ham's travelling army it was a day of shredded
nerves. They attempted to remain positive, even as the knowledge of Wigan's
early strike at Sheffield United sank in, but as the game unfolded, their
worst fears appeared to be coming true. Despite promising to play his
strongest team, Ferguson left Cristiano Ronaldo, Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes
on the bench and consigned former Hammer Rio Ferdinand to the stand.
Yet, after a slow start, United began to dominate. In Wayne Rooney and Alan
Smith, the hosts boasted two players who could give the lie to anyone who
felt Ferguson's team were merely out to do Curbishley a favour. Memories of
title bids running aground at Upton Park in 1992 and 1995 are still fresh in
enough United minds not to wish the Hammers any goodwill, quite apart from
the Tevez furore, so the home onslaught was received enthusiastically.
Rooney had already bobbled a couple of efforts wide when Michael Carrick
swung a corner to the near post when Smith met it with an astute flick. Just
as the ball looked set to drop in, up popped Yossi Benayoun to nod it away.
The Israeli could hardly be viewed as a defensive bulwark but in such
circumstances, unlikely heroes can be found and Benayoun remained solid and
cleared again as Kieran Richardson blasted the rebound at him. There was
more anguish to endure for the Hammers as John O'Shea rose to power another
Carrick corner goalwards, only for Robert Green to respond with a
magnificent fingertip save. West Ham's spirited defiance duly received its
reward when Tevez struck. Unable to deal with Green's long punt forward,
United's defence was split by a exchange of passes between Tevez and Bobby
Zamora, the Argentine eventually squeezing into the far corner beyond Edwin
van der Sar.
In South Yorkshire, confirmation of the Hammers' scorer could only have
twisted the knife into the deep wounds of suspicion inflicted by the
decision not to dock the Londoners' points over the Argentine's
controversial arrival with fellow countryman Javier Mascherano. Curbishley's
stomach must have churned 12 minutes after the restart when Ferguson sent
Giggs, Ronaldo and Scholes on. All three looked eager to make an impact as
the Hammers bedded themselves in for a rearguard action. The visitors
efforts were aided by some less than accurate United passing around the
penalty area and indeed, had Tevez or Luis Boa Morte been more accurate, the
Hammers would have been spared a few word fingernails. Still, with Green in
top form, Curbishley had cause for optimism and with 15 minutes left, the
former Norwich man stuck out a hand to stop Ronaldo's powerful header before
diving gratefully on the loose ball. United had more opportunities, with
Richardson and Scholes both going close. But once John O'Shea had been
denied a penalty when Luis Boa Morte sent him flying, the Hammers could join
in the party.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Manchester Utd 0 West Ham Utd 1
Times Online and Agencies
Carlos Tevez provided the ultimate moment of irony in a day of rollercoaster
emotions to preserve West Ham's top flight status.
If Manchester United ended the 2006-07 season as Barclays Premiership
champions, the campaign will forever be remembered for Tevez, whose mere
presence in the famous claret and blue continues to cause upset and rancour
among the Hammers' fellow relegation scrappers.
Somehow, the Argentinian forward has managed to rise above the rows which
have swirled above his head and, in first-half stoppage time, it was Tevez
who struck the decisive blow to keep the happy Hammers up.
The defeat did not cast a shadow over United's title celebrations but it
cast a deep pall of gloom over Bramall Lane as Sheffield United slid back
into the Championship.
Neil Warnock may grumble about Sir Alex Ferguson's decision to leave out
five big name stars but he could have few complaints about the hosts'
determination.
The arguments over Tevez could yet end up in the High Court but, on the
pitch, where the game's highs and lows should be experienced, there was only
joy for the Hammers and in particular owner Eggert Magnusson, who has never
been shy at hiding his emotions.
While United prepared to party, collecting three individual honours before
kick-off, including Ferguson's manager of the year award, and collected the
Premiership trophy after the final whistle, for West Ham's travelling army
it was a day of shredded nerves.
They attempted to remain positive, even as the knowledge of Wigan's early
strike at Sheffield United sank in, but as the game unfolded, their worst
fears appeared to be coming true.
Despite promising to play his strongest team, Ferguson left Cristiano
Ronaldo, Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes on the bench and consigned former
Hammer Rio Ferdinand to the stand. Yet, after a slow start, United began to
dominate.
Wayne Rooney had already bobbled a couple of efforts wide when Michael
Carrick swung a corner to the near post when Alan Smith met it with an
astute flick.
Just as the ball looked set to drop in, up popped Yossi Benayoun to nod it
away. The Israeli could hardly be viewed as a defensive bulwark but in such
circumstances, unlikely heroes can be found and Benayoun remained solid and
cleared again as Kieran Richardson blasted the rebound at him.
There was more anguish to endure for the Hammers as John O'Shea rose to
power another Carrick corner goalwards, only for Robert Green to respond
with a magnificent fingertip save.
West Ham's spirited defiance duly received its reward when Tevez struck.
Unable to deal with Green's long punt forward, United's defence was split by
a exchange of passes between Tevez and Bobby Zamora, the Argentine
eventually squeezing the ball into the far corner beyond Edwin van der Sar.
In South Yorkshire, confirmation of the Hammers' scorer could only have
twisted the knife into the deep wounds of suspicion inflicted by the
decision not to dock the Londoners' points over the Argentine's
controversial arrival at Upton Park with fellow countryman Javier
Mascherano.
Curbishley's stomach must have churned 12 minutes after the restart when
Ferguson sent Giggs, Ronaldo and Scholes on.
All three looked eager to make an impact as the Hammers bedded themselves in
for a rearguard action.
The visitors efforts were aided by some less than accurate United passing
around the penalty area and indeed, had Tevez or Luis Boa Morte been more
accurate, the Hammers would have been spared a few word fingernails.
Still, with Green in top form, Curbishley had cause for optimism and with 15
minutes left, the former Norwich man stuck out a hand to stop Ronaldo's
powerful header before diving gratefully on the loose ball.
United had more opportunities, with Richardson and Scholes both going close.
But once John O'Shea had been denied a penalty when Luis Boa Morte sent him
flying, the Hammers knew that they had pulled off a highly unlikely escape
act.
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