WHUFC.com
01.03.2009
Barclays Premier League
West Ham United v Manchester City
Boleyn Ground
Sunday 1 March
12.30pm
Referee: Mike Dean
Final score - West Ham United 1-0 Manchester City
Full time - Not that long as Mike Dean brings the game to a close. A superb
performance and a deserved three points to the Hammers which moves them up
to seventh in the Premier League.
92 min - There are already whistles going around the Boleyn Ground. How much
longer have the Hammers got to hold on?
91 min - Elano hits it but it is superbly cleared by Neill off the line.
Robinho has picked up a knock and has to leave the field so City will play
the four minutes of added time with ten men.
90 min - We are into the last minute here and City have a free-kick right on
the edge of the home penalty area.
89 min - City make their final change as Valeri Bojinov comes on for De
Jong.
85 min - Walter Lopez comes on for his Premier League debut with Di Michele
leaving the field.
83 min - It looks like Jonathan Spector will be joining us. Kovac is the man
to make way. It has been a solid home debut from the blonde-haired midfield
man.
81 min - The game has settled again and that suits the home side. If they
can hang on for another ten minutes it will be a vital three points at the
expense of the team right below them in the table.
77 min - Mark Hughes' men threaten again. A long ball into the box is not
dealt with and Ireland manages to control and lay off to Caicedo. His shot
powerful shot flies just over - another warning to the Hammers.
75 min - That probably was not a good thing to say as City very nearly
restored parity. Caicedo the man going close.
72 min - It really is no more than the home side deserve as they have
created by far the best openings.
70 min - GOAL! Collison gives the Hammers the lead after superb work by
Savio on the left. The German youth international beat his man and forced
Given into a desperate save to keep out his curling effort. The ball fell
kindly to Collison, who lofted it over Given's despairing dive.
69 min - Vincent Kompany becomes the first City player to go into the book
for a foul on Collison.
65 min - City make their second change and, much to the delight of the home
support, it is Bellamy that makes way. Elano is the man to replace him.
64 min - Oh dear. His effort flies high into the Centenary Stand.
63 min - The visitors are perhaps on top for the first time in the game at
present but Green is still yet to be tested. However Robinho may now change
that with a free-kick 25 yards from goal.
62 min - It is well dealt with by a combination of Parker and Savio and the
Hammers look to break away.
59 min - Good tackling back from Savio as he slides in to take the ball from
Pablo Zabaleta. Corner to City
56 min - Brilliant football from the Hammers. A 20 pass move saw the ball
switch from right to left before eventually ending up at Di Michele's feet.
The Italian's shot was blocked by Nigel De Jong.
52 min - There are 34,562 present at the Boleyn Ground for today's game.
Almost on cue as I write this both sets of fans burst into song. 'Bubbles'
from the home support is met with a rendition of 'Blue Moon' from the City
fans.
50 min - Another smart break involving Kovac and Di Michele sends Cole
racing into the area. The England striker tumbles under the challenge of
Dunne but Mike Dean rules no penalty.
47 min - A great move by the Hammers almost puts Collison in. The No32
cannot quite get a cross under his control but still manages to win a corner
off City captain Richard Dunne. Savio floats it in and Cole forces Given
into another save.
46 min - The second half is underway. It looks like both sides are
unchanged.
Half-time. No they cannot. The half ends goalless, despite the Hammers' best
efforts. There have been seem good moments from Gianfranco Zola's men, they
simply just need to find a way past Given in after the break.
45 min - After an end-to-end spell in the middle, the half is finishing
slightly quietly. Can either side sneak a goal before the break?
45 min - There will be four extra minutes at the end of the half.
44 min - Radoslav Kovac is booked for a late tackle.
43 min - Savio comes on to replace him. This will be the longest the No10
has had on the field in a claret and blue shirt.
42 min - The Swiss international is carried from the field and gets
applauded by all sides of the ground. Fingers crossed the injury is not too
serious.
38 min - A worry for the Hammers as Valon Behrami is down. The midfielder
appeared to catch his studs in the turf and twisted his left knee. The
stretcher is on and it looks like his afternoon is over.
36 min - Manchester City win a corner after Lucas Neill heads a Bellamy
centre behind. The Wales captain has switched to the right side of the City
midfield with the arrival of Caicedo.
34 min - The Hammers test Given again. A neat passing move sees them move
the ball around sharply on the edge of the area. It is eventually played to
Di Michele, but his left foot shot is held by the City stopper.
30 min - It is proving to be quite a lively encounter with some tasty
tackles going in from both sides. Mike Dean is having to keep a close eye on
proceedings.
28 min - Another great chance for the home side as Collison finds some space
just inside the City area. His driven shot is well held by Given.
27 min - The set piece leads to a corner. Di Michele's ball in falls to
Behrami but his volleyed effort is blocked.
26 min - Free-kick to the Hammers right on the edge of the City area after
Cole was felled. A good chance to open the scoring...
23 min - The home side hit back and a clever break away sees a Di Michele
cross just elude Cole.
22 min - Robinho has just missed a sitter. Bellamy crossed from the left and
the ball fell to the Brazil international three yards out, but he could only
put it wide.
20 min - The game has certainly come to life in the last few minutes, with
the fans on both sides player their part. The home support break into a
chorus of 'Come on you Irons'.
16 min - Di Michele registers United's first shot of the match as he tests
Given from 20 yards.
15 min - A moment of controversy as De Jong volleys a shot at goal, Robinho
helps it on only for Green to pull off a superb reflex save. The Brazilian
striker appeared to be well offside when he touched the ball, though.
15 min - Manchester make the first change. Richards leaves the field for
Felipe Caicedo.
13 min - It is a mild, overcast day in east London. In fact, the brightest
sight on display is Manchester City's orange kit.
11 min - Scott Parker becomes the first player to go into Mike Dean's book
for a late tackle on Micah Richards.
9 min - The visitors have won the first corner of the match after Ilunga
cleared a Bellamy cross behind.
7 min - Good work from Herita Ilunga on the left. The full-back beat Stephen
Ireland and crossed dangerously towards Cole, who appeared to be nudged off
the ball before he could get near it.
5 min - City seem to have set up in a 4-4-2 formation with the returning
Craig Bellamy and Robinho up front together.
4 min - The game is yet to get going with both teams looking to keep the
ball in midfield, although Carlton Cole has just pressurised Shay Given into
a hurried kick.
2 min - Junior Stanislas is also named among a youthful-looking substitutes
list that includes Freddie Sears and Savio
1 min - Manchester City get us underway.
We're approaching kick-off at the Boleyn Ground as Bubbles echoes around the
stadium. Jack Collison and David Di Michele come into the team while there
is the surprise inclusion of highly regarded 18-year-old midfielder Josh
Payne on the bench.
West Ham United: Green, Neill, Tomkins, Upson, Ilunga, Behrami (Savio 43),
Parker, Collison, Kovac (Spector 83), Di Michele (Lopez 45), Cole
Subs: Lastuvka, Payne, Stanislas, Sears
Manchester City: Given, Zabaleta, Onuoha, Dunne, Richards (Caicedo 15), De
Jong (Bojinov 89), Ireland, Kompany, Bridge, Robinho, Bellamy (Elano 65)
Subs: Hart, Garrido, Berti, Vassell
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Collison poise downs City
WHUFC.com
A superbly-taken goal by Jack Collison proved the difference in a lively
league encounter on Sunday
01.03.2009
West Ham United 1-0 Manchester City
Jack Collison struck the only goal of the game to give West Ham United a
vital victory over Manchester City and move the club up to seventh place in
the Barclays Premier League.
Before the game much of the talk was about Craig Bellamy's return but, on St
David's Day, it was his Wales team-mate Collison that stole the post-match
headlines with his 70th-minute winner. The win was a welcome tonic after the
midweek FA Cup exit but was marred by a serious-looking first-half left-leg
injury to Valon Behrami that saw him require extensive treatment and being
taken to hospital.
For the Sunday lunchtime sell-out, Gianfranco Zola had made two changes from
the defeat at Middlesbrough with Collison in for the suspended Mark Noble
and David Di Michele replacing Freddie Sears who dropped to the bench. Also
among the replacements was 18-year-old midfielder Josh Payne, alongside the
19-year-old winger Junior Stanislas.
City were without the suspended Shaun Wright-Phillips, while further forward
Bellamy was to play just over an hour before making way for Elano with a
knee knock. Far more serious was the 38th-minute injury to Behrami who
appeared to catch his leg in the turf and required extensive treatment
before being carried off to a standing ovation.
In truth, the first half saw limited opportunities for both teams. Jack
Collison and David Di Michele had the best of the Hammers' moments with a
couple of low shots after well-worked moves while Robinho's flicked effort
on 15 minutes forced a tremendous save by Robert Green. The big-money
Brazilian then poked the ball just wide seven minutes later from barely six
yards out.
Referee Mike Dean was also busy - booking Scott Parker and Radoslav Kovac in
the early exchanges while Vincent Kompany also had his name taken. The
caution did not trouble Parker, who was to prove among the brightest
performers on the pitch with an industrious box-to-box display that showed
just why City tried unsuccessfully to prise him away from the Boleyn Ground
at the turn of the year.
The second half burst into life when Savio - wearing the No10 shirt vacated
by Bellamy, who was now receiving treatment back in the dressing room - cut
inside from the left on to his favoured right foot and fired in a fierce
shot. Given saved but could only parry the ball to Collison who expertly
hooked the ball into the net.
City tried to find a way back into the contest, with Felipe Caicedo, who had
replaced Micah Richards as early as the 15th minute, firing into the
side-netting and over the bar either side of a Robinho effort that was
blasted wide. Zola made his second change with eight minutes to play by
replacing home debutant Kovac with Jonathan Spector.
Walter Lopez then made his first league appearance for the final four
minutes as Zola's men saw out the closing stages in relative comfort. Hughes
took off Nigel De Jong for striker Valeri Bojinov before Elano's free-kick
was flicked by the inspirational Neill on to the post and bounced away to
safety. Safely into seventh position, Zola's men can push on when they go to
Wigan Athletic on Wednesday.
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Jack and Savio shine
WHUFC.com
Jack Collison and Savio showed West Ham United have great young talent that
can take the club forward
01.03.2009
A thrilled Gianfranco Zola paid tribute to his youngsters after they
inspired West Ham United to a tremendous home victory against Manchester
City.
With the likes of Robert Green, Lucas Neill, Matthew Upson and Scott Parker
providing the experience to grind out the result, it was the manager's young
charges who did the trick at the other end for a superb 1-0 win. It means
the club are up to seventh place and can consolidate their hold on what
might potential be a European qualification spot when they travel to Wigan
on Wednesday.
The 20-year-old Jack Collison scored the winner late in the game after a
superb shot by the 19-year-old Savio forced Shay Given to parry the ball
into his path. Collison, a product of the club's youth system, has now
registered three goals from 15 games this season while it was January
recruit Savio's second assist in as many games at the Boleyn Ground.
Understandably the manager was delighted with their impact and the
performance of the team as a whole. "It was really hard," he said. "It was a
close game but I think we deserved a little bit more than them. It was good
as it was a crucial and important game. We knew they had a very good team
but we also knew that if we play as team as we have been it would be very
difficult for them to beat us."
It was Collison that provided the moment of magic with his superbly-taken
goal, as he lofted the ball back beyond Given after the goalkeeper's initial
save from Savio. Zola said his progress underlined that you do not always
need to spend to find quality. "That is the beauty of football," he said.
"Sometimes if you have passion, if you have belief you can be successful and
I think Jack Collison is an example of all of that.
"Jack is unbelievable, he's getting better and better. He's 19 and he's
playing nearly every week. He's got a very good attitude and he's going to
get better and better. I feel very lucky to have him. Not only him but the
other players. That's why i like the attitude here from not only him but the
other players as well.
"I can play them in different positions. as long as you have the right
mindset you can play wherever you want. I'm sure I could play Jack Collison
up front or right at the back and he could produce good results for the
team."
On Savio, Zola was equally effusive: "The boy came on today and did well.
I'm pleased for him because he came here with a lot of expectation and to be
honest he was a little bit under pressure because he knows people are
waiting for something special from him.
"I'm pleased with how he is working and his attitude is good, he is going to
be a successful player I'm sure. The next game, if he plays, I'm sure he
will be even more effective. We bought him because he has something
different, something that is sometimes missing in a game and today we saw a
little bit of that. I'm sure there's still a lot to come from him."
While recent injuries to James Collins and Valon Behrami have reduced his
selection options, Zola was clear that the policy of having a smaller squad
and youthful reserve selection was the way forward for his West Ham United.
That was summed up by the presence of the 18-year-old playmaker Josh Payne
and tricky 19-year-old winger Junior Stanislas on the substitute's bench -
with both tipped for bright futures.
"In the last few days we have been unlucky to pick up injuries which
shortened the squad even more. That's the way we decided to go until the end
of the season. If everybody keeps performing how we did today everybody is
going to be all right. Plus there are a couple of interesting young players
and I'm sure we will find space for them."
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Behrami has to wait
WHUFC.com
The club's medical staff will learn in the next few days how long the
injured Valon Behrami will be sidelined
01.03.2009
Gianfranco Zola is hoping Valon Behrami will be back sooner rather than
later after the midfielder suffered an injury to his left knee in Sunday's
win against Manchester City.
The midfielder was taken to hospital in an ambulance after being carried off
on a stretcher just before half-time having had his leg give way underneath
him as he went for the ball. Clearly in pain and needing oxygen, Behrami was
given a standing ovation by the sold-out crowd as he was carried off with
his team-mates also showing him their support.
Having been scanned immediately after arriving at hospital, the 23-year-old
Swiss international returned to the Boleyn Ground about an hour after the
final whistle. There was some initial positive news with the results of the
MRI scan confirming no fracture or break. Further tests will be required to
assess the extent of the injury in the next few days once the swelling has
subsided.
Zola paid tribute to the midfielder's all-action style and his commitment to
the cause. "Hopefully it is not going to be too bad as the boy is a really
important player for us - on the pitch and off pitch as well. I think his
studs got caught and he fell on his knee. He was in pain so he needed some
oxygen."
Behrami would have missed Wednesday's trip to Wigan Athletic anyway with
suspension but the club's medical staff will know early in the week how long
he will be absent with the next game after this week due to be the visit of
West Bromwich Albion on 16 March. "Hopefully we are going to have him back
soon but it is too early for us to assess him right now," added Zola.
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West Ham 1-0 Man City
By Jonathan Stevenson
BBC.co.uk
West Ham moved up to seventh in the Premier League with a thoroughly
deserved victory over Manchester City. The Hammers were by far the better
team throughout and Jack Collison won it in the second half, side-footing
home after Shay Given saved from Savio. Robinho had missed a sitter for the
visitors, prodding wide from six yards, while he also forced a brilliant
save from Rob Green with an impromptu flick. West Ham also saw Valon Behrami
carried off with a serious-looking injury. But boss Gianfranco Zola will be
delighted with the manner of their victory after outplaying City for most of
the game and it provides a timely boost to their chances of qualifying for
Europe next season. The visitors, who beat FC Copenhagen of Denmark to reach
the last 16 of the Uefa Cup on Thursday, appeared subdued, their play
lacking any real urgency. Craig Bellamy was their only threat, and the Welsh
striker ignored the home fans' boos after his acrimonious exit from Upton
Park last month to set up a glorious chance for Robinho which the Brazilian
somehow poked wide. But most of the play belonged to West Ham, with Scott
Parker pushing the hosts forward from midfield and Collison and Behrami and
then Savio getting into advanced positions down the flanks. Their football
at times was a joy to behold but they were frequently in danger of
over-playing it, always looking for that one extra pass instead of finding a
killer finish. After one such interchange Herita Ilunga found Collison but
Given was equal to the 20-year-old's low shot, before another flowing move
led to David di Michele shooting tamely straight at Given. Indeed the two
best chances of the first half fell to the lacklustre Robinho, who apart
from missing from close-range also flicked a Vincent Kompany shot towards
the bottom corner, only for Green to make a fine low save. Just as the game
was livening up, the injury to Behrami cast an enormous shadow over
proceedings at the Boleyn Ground. He caught his studs in the turf and his
ankle and knee both twisted in horrific fashion, the Swiss star needing
oxygen and six minutes of treatment on the pitch before being stretchered
off. The half ended tamely, but it was the Hammers again who picked up the
tempo after the break as they searched for the goal their play deserved.
Carlton Cole saw a header from a corner saved by Given, before another
sweeping passing move led to Parker's goalbound shot being bravely blocked
by Wayne Bridge. It seemed a matter of time before they scored and with 19
minutes remaining, West Ham went in front.
Savio - on for Behrami - went on a powerful run down the left, cut inside
and shot from 20 yards. Given made a fine save with his left hand but
parried it out to Collison, who showed fabulous composure on the volley to
lift the ball over the keeper and into the net. City finally woke up and
Felipe Caicedo twice threatened, first skipping past Matthew Upson only to
fire wide, before moments later lashing wildly over from 10 yards. But City,
who have only won once on the road all season, never really looked like
halting their woeful away form.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
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Manchester City manager Mark Hughes: "We dominated for long periods. They
got a breakaway against the run of play and have taken the chance they've
created. "Performance wise it's as good as we've played away from home, and
that includes the draw at Liverpool. "If we concede first teams are prepared
to get people behind the ball and we find it difficult to break them down."
West Ham manager Gianfranco Zola: They had some chances but we had more and
we were in control of the game." On match-winner Jack Collison: "Jack is
unbelievable, he's getting better and better. "He plays like a veteran and
his attitude is good. He's got a bright future. I feel very lucky to have
him and not only him, but other players too."
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
----
West Ham: Green, Neill, Tomkins, Upson, Ilunga, Behrami (Nsereko 43),
Parker, Collison, Kovac (Spector 83), Di Michele (Lopez 87), Cole.
Subs Not Used: Lastuvka, Sears, Stanislas, Payne.
Booked: Parker, Kovac.
Goals: Collison 71.
Man City: Given, Richards (Caicedo 15), Onuoha, Dunne, Bridge, Zabaleta, De
Jong (Bojinov 89), Kompany, Ireland, Bellamy (Elano 66), Robinho.
Subs Not Used: Hart, Vassell, Garrido, Berti.
Booked: Kompany, Ireland.
Att: 34,562.
Ref: Mike Dean (Wirral).
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
----
BBC Sport Player Rater man of the match: West Ham's Robert Green on 6.82 (on
90 minutes).
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Europa boost for Hammers
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 1st March 2009
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United's chances of featuring in European club competition next
season were enhanced today by Manchester United's penalty shootout defeat of
Tottenham in the Carling Cup final at Wembley. Had Tottenham won today's
final they would have taken one of the three places allocated to English
clubs in next seasons's reformatted Europa League, which replaces the
existing UEFA Cup. But with Manchester United winning, and assuming that
the reigning Premier League champions go on to finish in the top four this
season, that place will now go to the next highest-finishing league team -
guaranteeing qualification for the team finishing in sixth place. However
should May's FA Cup final be contested between two teams already allocated a
European spot (in either the Champions League or the Europa League) the
third and final Europa League spot would pass down to the team finishing in
seventh place in the Premier League. West Ham United climbed to seventh in
the table earlier this afternoon thanks to the 1-0 win over Manchester City.
There are eleven games left to play this season.
West Ham United: 2008/09 season remaining fixtures
Home ...
West Bromwich Albion (16th March)
Sunderland (4th April)
Chelsea (25th April)
Liverpool (9th May)
Middlesbrough (24th May)
...and away
Wigan Athletic (4th March)
Blackburn Rovers (21st March)
Tottenham (11th April)
Aston Villa (18th April)
Stoke City (2nd May)
Everton (16th May)
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West Ham Utd 1 Manchester City 0
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 1st March 2009
By: Staff Writer
West Ham returned to winning ways thanks to a second half Jack Collison
strike in today's Premier League clash with Manchester City.
The Hammers had gone five games without a win before today and for long
periods it looked unlikely that their poor run would be broken. That was
until two of Zola's youngsters combined to score the game's only goal midway
through the second half - much to the relief of a packed Sunday lunchtime
Boleyn crowd.
With just twenty minutes left to play Savio, on as a replacement for the
injured Valon Behrami was found in space by Carlton Cole on the left hand
side before cutting in and curling an effort towards the far post. Recent
City signing Shay Given made an uncharacteristic error in palming the effort
straight out to the loitering Collison, who did well to adjust his body
before returning the ball back towards the goal where it somehow evaded the
desperate scrambles of Given and his defenders to loop into the back of the
net and win all three points for Zola's men.
In truth it was no more than the Hammers had deserved from a game which, for
the vast majority, they had controlled. Craig Bellamy, returning to the
Boleyn Ground for the first time since his move to City in the January
transfer window was completely ineffective and substituted late on to the
delight of the home fans who joined in with a rousing chorus of 'who needs
Craig Bellamy?' as the Welsh striker trudged off disconsolently before going
straight down the tunnel to the dressing room.
Bellamy's latest club are are a great side on paper yet despite their
multi-million pound line-up, far from it on the pitch. Mark Hughes' charges
- who could have leapfrogged West Ham in the Premier League had they won
today - have spectacularly failed to impress away from home this season. and
went into today's match having gone 11 games since their last success away
from Eastlands.
Today they only briefly threatened to break that run and were second best
for much of the game although had substitute Caicedo - on for the injured
Micah Richards as early as the 15th minute - taken any one of three
gilt-edged opportunities it could have been a different outcome.
Barring that triumverate of chances elsewhere the Citizens provided little
threat, and Rob Green's only save of note came on the quarter-of-an-hour
mark when the England keeper had to be at his very best to deny a
close-range Robinho effort with a fingertip save.
In stark contrast the Hammers reverted to playing the sort of delightful
football that had accompanied the recent eight-match unbeaten run although
once again, much of it ended in frustration as good approach play was too
often suffed out in or around City's penalty box. Despite this Zola's side
still managed to create a number of noteworthy chances; in the first half
David Di Michele registered no less than four efforts whilst Jack Collison
went close to opening the scoring on 28 minutes when his thumping drive was
well saved by Given.
In the second period (and barring Collison's match-winner) United were much
less productive in front of goal with chances limited to either end of the
half. Carlton Cole - who had a superb game leading the line - went close two
minutes after the restart with a header, whilst the equally excellent Scott
Parker - up against the side who tried to sign him along with Bellamy in
January - registered an effort late on. However there was always an element
of control for the Irons, whose last win prior to today had been the 2-0
home success over freefalling Hull over a month ago.
Sadly for West Ham the victory was marred by what looked like a serious
injury to Swiss international Valon Behrami, went down in agony after
turning on his right ankle following a first half tackle on Wayne Bridge.
Behrami received treatment on the field for almost six minutes - during
which time he was administered oxygen - before being carried off to standing
applause from the appreciative home crowd. There is no news at present as to
the extent of the injury but the 23-year-old was taken immediately to
hospital.
The win lifts United above Wigan and Fulham into seventh place in the
Premier League - the team's highest position since last September and one
which surely leaves them no more than two wins away from ensuring Premier
League football at the Boleyn next season.
West Ham Utd 1 Manchester City 0: Match Stats
West Ham Utd: Green, Neill, Ilunga, Tomkins, Upson, Parker, Kovac (Spector
83), Behrami (Savio 43), Collison, Di Michele (Lopez 87), Cole.
Subs not used: Lastuvka, Payne, Stanislas, Sears.
Goals: Collison (70).
Shots: 10 (15, 22, 26, 28, 30, 34; 47, 47, 70*, 88)
Booked: Parker (10), Kovac (44).
Manchester City: Given, Bridge, Richards (Caicedo 15), Onuoha, Dunne,
Zabaleta, De Jong (Bojinov 89), Kompany, Ireland, Bellamy (Elano 66),
Robinho.
Subs not used: Hart, Garrido, Glauber, Vassell.
Shots: 9 (14, 22, 44; 53, 74, 76, 77, 88, 90+1)
Booked: Kompany (69), Ireland (90).
Referee: Mike Dean (3).
Attendance: 34,562.
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Anxious wait for Behrami
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 1st March 2009
By: Staff Writer
Valon Behrami has been rushed to hospital for tests after he fell awkwardly
during this afternoon's 1-0 win over Manchester City. The Swiss
international went down with what initially looked like an injury to his
ankle, although latest speculation suggests that it may be cruciate ligament
damage - an injury that would keep him out of action until the beginning of
next season. The injury was sustained as Behrami attempted to tackle Wayne
Bridge at the end of the first half. The 23-year-old midfielder lost his
footing in the Boleyn turf as he attempted to place his weight on his right
leg which buckled underneath him. He spent six agonising minutes on the
pitch receiving treatment before being stretchered off to sympathetic
applause from the crowd. Gianfranco Zola tried to play down the
worst-case-scenario reports after the game; talking in the post-match press
conference he said: "We don't know [the extent of it] yet because he's been
taken to hospital. He caught his knee when his stud got stuck in the ground
and he felt something. We don't know exactly but hopefully it's not going to
be too bad."
West Ham's injury situation is now beginning to become a major concern once
again, with Behrami set to join Kieron Dyer, Dean Ashton, Danny Gabbidon and
James Collins on the long-term injured list. Additionally Luis Boa Morte
also missed today's game. In recent years West Ham United have lost an
unprecented number of players to an injury that used to end the careers of
many. Behrami could join Ian Pearce, Don Hutchison and James Collins as
Hammers who have all had their careers blighted (to varying degrees) by
cruciate ligament damage, should the early reports prove to be correct.
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Zola on ... Manchester City
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 1st March 2009
By: Staff Writer
The manager reflects on a welcome return to form and a return to the Premier
League's top seven ...
On the game ...
It was vital, it was a crucial game. Our team played a very good match and
they deserved to win this match.
I had the feeling that we were playing a little bit better than them. They
had some chances but we had more and I felt we had control of the game. It
was a matter of persisting and playing at the same level as we did in the
first half.
But then in the second half we started quietly, we went quiet for a while so
when the goal came it was unexpected - bu ti was a good goal and I'm very
pleased.
On turning it around (again) ...
In the back of their minds - and probably in the back of many people's minds
- was the bad run we had beginning in October where we were playing well but
not getting results and it was the same [recently]. Today's victory was so
important for that reason also.
On match-winner Jack Collison ...
Colleagues asked me about the two young players involved [in the goal] and I
couldn't recall the second one - the first one was Savio, obviously! Jack
plays like a veteran, he's unbelievable. I'm pleased for him and I think
he's got a bright future. He's working very hard and his attitude is always
very good.
On Valon Behrami's injury ...
We don't know [the extent of it] yet because he's been taken to hospital.
He's having an MRI; it might not be too bad hopefully. I hope so because the
boy doesn't deserve it; he's a very important player for us.
It's his knee. He caught his knee when his stud got stuck in the ground and
he felt something. We don't know exactly but hopefully it's not going to be
too bad.
On his first six months ...
We've had good spells and bad spells but the team has improved a lot,
regardless - and I'm pleased for them because they work very hard.
Everything they are achieving is down to them, to their attitude and the way
they work. Fantastic.
Mark Hughes - Manchester City
Today we haven't been able to get a positive result but I thought it was a
positive performance. We tried to take the game to West Ham today and at
times we were a little bit guilty of playing like the home side away from
home, if you can understand that analogy.
We dominated for long periods in the game and created really good chances -
unfortunately we were unable to take them. They got a breakaway in the
second half against the run of play and took the chance. We got done by the
sucker punch again.
As it was, it was a disappointing day. Craig [Bellamy] had to come off
because he tweaked his knee so he'll see a specialist down in London
tomorrow to get it checked. We hope that he's going to be okay.
* Gianfranco Zola and Mark Hughes were talking to the BBC.
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Collison the hero for Hammers
Behrami blow takes shine off victory over City
Last updated: 1st March 2009
SSN
Man of the match: Scott Parker produced a committed performance to show his
importance to West Ham.
Moment of the match: Jack Collison's winning goal meant Manchester City's
away woes continued.
Attempt of the match: Elano's late free-kick nearly secured a point for
Manchester City.
Save of the match: Rob Green produced a terrific reaction save to stop
Robinho's flicked effort from close range.
Talking Point: Will Manchester City be able to improve their awful away
form?
Jack Collison scored the only goal of the game for West Ham as Manchester
City's miserable away form continued at Upton Park. The young midfielder was
on hand to lob the ball home in the 71st minute after Shay Given could only
parry Savio's curling effort from the left corner of the penalty area. But
the Hammers' day was marred by a serious injury to Valon Behrami, who was
carried off in obvious pain in the first half after catching his studs in
the turf as he challenged Wayne Bridge, badly twisting his ankle and knee.
Robinho saw one first-half effort superbly saved by Rob Green, before
missing a glorious opportunity at the far post when he stabbed wide after
good work from Stephen Ireland and Craig Bellamy. Former Hammers striker
Bellamy, jeered by the home fans on his return to Upton Park, was replaced
by Elano in the 66th minute, with the Brazilian seeing a late free-kick
glanced onto the outside of the post by Lucas Neill. Herita Ilunga almost
created a breakthrough after eight minutes, cutting inside his man and
curling a low ball into the penalty area. Carlton Cole was the target but he
was just unable to make a connection and Given collected comfortably. Two
minutes later, former Hammer Bellamy found space for the first time and
floated a cross towards the far post, forcing a corner. Scott Parker,
meanwhile, earned a 10th minute booking for a reckless challenge on Micah
Richards. The England man left the field minutes later in favour of striker
Felipe Caicedo, forcing a reshuffle. After 14 minutes, Robinho almost had
the ball in the net from the daintiest of touches. A mistake by Matthew
Upson gifted Ireland possession and when his cross was cleared Vincent
Kompany volleyed for goal. His shot was weak but Robinho, given onside,
flicked his boot at the ball and almost succeeded in steering it past the
sprawling Green. The Brazilian then missed a sitter in the 22nd minute. The
hard-working Bellamy was the architect, breaking free on the left byline
before cutting the ball across goal for Ireland. The midfielder dragged it
first time to the far post where it fell to Robinho, who missed the target
from just two yards. West Ham had the chance to reverse the pressure with a
free-kick in a dangerous position but Radoslav Kovac, on his full home
debut, headed high and wide from David Di Michele's fine delivery. With half
an hour gone, a swift break from Behrami created a shooting chance for Cole
but he dallied over his attempt and ended up blazing over. It was Behrami's
last contribution before leaving the pitch on a stretcher having twisted his
knee attempting a tackle. But the Hammers continued to press, with Given
again called upon when Di Michele hit a firm shot from 10 yards following
some superb approach play around the City area. Just 90 seconds after the
restart Collison was inches away from capping a fine West Ham move with the
opener. The Wales international started the attack with some good,
aggressive running, before passing to Cole and continuing his run. Cole
found Di Michele with a crisp first touch and the latter's cross curled
invitingly towards Collison. The angle was tough and he just failed to
connect with an attempted volley and the danger was cleared. City fed the
ball to Robinho on the right but, despite some customary stepovers, the
enigmatic forward remained short on inspiration.
Indeed, the hosts were still playing the better football, with another pacy
attack - this time set in motion by Ilunga's neat back-heel - ending with
Parker's goal-bound shot being charged down. Robinho's disappointing day
took another downturn in the 63rd-minute when he took responsibility for an
inviting free-kick and promptly drove his effort straight into the stands.
The home side's failure to create something clear-cut must have frustrated
the fans but, predictably, Bellamy's substitution with 25 minutes to play
gave them something to cheer. With 71 minutes gone, they were in even finer
voice as they celebrated Collison's perfectly executed finish. Savio, on as
Behrami's replacement, claimed the assist after his swerving effort forced
Given to parry the ball back into the penalty box. But the finish was
equally impressive as Collison lifted the rebound into the top corner with
the side of his foot to beat the scrambling goalkeeper. Substitute Elano
teed up Robinho with a clever back-heel as City tried to respond but once
again his attempt flew wide. Caicedo was not having it any better, twice
missing the goal from good positions. For the Hammers, injuries were now the
chief concern, with Cole moving gingerly after turning his ankle. A late
free-kick almost made it 1-1 when Elano's flighted effort struck the post
via Lucas Neill's head, but West Ham held on.
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Zola awaits Behrami update
Zola hails duo after City victory
Last updated: 1st March 2009
SSN
West Ham boss Gianfranco Zola is still waiting to learn the extent of the
injury suffered by Valon Behrami against Manchester City. Behrami was
stretchered off in obvious pain with his knee and ankle heavily strapped
after catching his studs in the turf as he challenged Wayne Bridge. Zola
confirmed after the 1-0 victory that the midfielder had been taken to
hospital to ascertain the full extent of the injury The Italian told Sky
Sports: "We are still waiting. He has gone to a hospital for the MRI.
"Hopefully it is not going to be too bad. We are very sorry for him, he is
such an important player for us."
Behrami's replacement Savio played a major role in the winning goal, with
his shot parried by Shay Given for Jack Collison to coolly lob home in the
71st minute. Both men earned warm praise from their manager, with Zola
particularly pleased with Collison's efforts. He said: "Jack is
unbelievable, he's getting better and better. He's 19 and he's playing
nearly every week. He's got a very good attitude and he is going to get
better and better. "I feel very lucky to have him. Not only him but other
players. That's why I like the attitude here. "I can play them in different
positions. As long as you know how to play football you can still produce
and be important for the team. I'm sure I could play Jack Collison up front
or right at the back and he could still produce good results for the team."
Savio, a club-record buy in January from Italian side Brescia, is another
who is gradually making his mark on the Premier League and Zola was pleased
with his game-turning cameo. He added: "Savio has done well, the boy came on
today and played a good game. "I'm pleased for him because he came here with
a lot of expectations and to be honest he was a little bit under pressure
because he knows people are waiting for something special from him. "But I'm
pleased with how he is working and his attitude is good. He is going to be a
successful player here I'm sure. "We bought him because he has something
different, something that is sometimes missing in a game and today we saw a
little bit of that. "I'm sure there's still a lot to come from him."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Vinny's Manchester City Report
Vinny - Sun Mar 1 2009
West Ham Online
West Ham United 1 Manchester City 0
A superb hard working performance saw West Ham gain another three points as
Jack Collison scored his third goal of the season to seal the points.
I thought this was a brilliant result and possibly my favourite of the
season. Make no doubt about it this was a very hard game and we really had
to dig in. At times we played some superb football and although our weakness
up front did show we managed to grab a goal that we fully deserved.
Last weekend after Bolton I was still upbeat about our season but like many
others the feeling after the cup game at Boro' was one of gloom. I kept
thinking "have we become shit again?" but on this evidence that was just a
blip and we recorded an excellent victory which lifts us into 7th place.
Gianfranco Zola made a few changes to the side which were well beaten in
that dismal performance in midweek. In midfield Mark Noble was suspended and
replaced by Jack Collison. This saw Radoslav Kovac make his home debut in
the centre of midfield alongside Scott Parker.
Up front David Di Michele returned to the side in place of Freddie Sears who
dropped to the bench. Alongside Sears on the bench were two youngsters,
Junior Stanislas and Josh Payne.
The Manchester City side consisted of former hammer Craig Bellamy who
received a less than warm reception.
It was a full house inside Upton Park as the fans had made their way for
this silly kick off time of 12.30. The atmosphere was for this time of kick
off quite good as both teams looked to feel each other out in the opening
stages.
The first great chance of the game fell to the visitors who had been second
best for the majority of the opening stages. A ball into the area found
Robinho totally unmarked as the Brazilian tried a clever flicked shot which
Robert Green somehow turned around the post.
We continued to play some very neat football although were guilty of
overplaying it at times. This though I could take because last season I was
craving to watch some good football and we are now playing it.
A lovely interchanging move involving Ilunga saw the ball fall to Collison
in the area but the midfielders shot was straight at Given and he might have
thought he could have done better.
Di Michele was starting to see a lot of the ball and there would be moments
of genius followed by moments which would frustrate the crowd. He does have
an abundance of skill and a lovely turn took out two Manchester City players
but his shot was not good enough to beat Given.
In an exciting end to end first half Manchester City produced the best
chance of the first period and it again fell to Robinho who found himself
again unmarked in the area but he somehow managed to put the shot wide with
most of the Bobby Moore Stand resigned to seeing the ball ending up in the
back of the net.
We kept going and Behrami was starting to get the better of Wayne Bridge but
Behrami's afternoon would end in unfortunate circumstances as he seemed to
get studs stuck in the ground and as he fell down he seemed to badly injure
his knee. It took around five minutes for him to be stretched off and his
season looks likely to be over.
On in his place was Savio Nsereko who went to the left hand side of midfield
with Jack Collison switching to the right.
The substitution unsettled us and Manchester City dominated possession for
those final few moments of the half. Somehow the ref only gave four minutes
injury time which was odd as Behrami was on the floor for much longer than
that as we had two substitutions (on for each team) which would add up to
one minute.
Nevertheless we went in at half time knowing that this was one of those
games that could go either way. Both teams had looked bright and created a
few chances. I was pleased with how we were playing and it was good to see
that there was no hangover from the Middlesbrough game.
We started the half well and dominated the opening quarter. Another great
move saw Di Michele float a wonderful pass into the area for Collison but he
could not get good connection on the ball and it was knocked away for a
corner.
The corner was taken by Savio and found Cole who force Given into another
save as West Ham were upping the ante.
Di Michele was again at his creative best when a brilliant through ball
found Cole who raced into the area only to be bundled over by Richard Dunne.
From where I was sitting I could not see what type of contact was made but
there seemed to be a good shout from the fans.
A fantastic passing move (there must have been about fifteen passes)
eventually found Di Michele whose shot looked poised for goal but it was
charged down by De Jong.
Manchester City came back well and started to get themselves going again.
They still couldn't test Green as we defended bravely.
I found Manchester City to be a strange side. They are blessed with some
really good footballers but their style of football does not fit. With the
quality they posses in players like Ireland, Robinho and Bellamy the long
ball game played right into our hands. We simply denied them space down the
flanks and they looked lost.
On his return to Upton Park in the ineffective Bellamy was taken off and
replaced by Elano.
On the 70th minute mark we would find that goal we had been searching for
and again it came via a sweeping footballing move which saw Carlton Cole
release Savio who cut inside and hit a shot which Given could only parry but
Jack Collison was there to neatly loop the ball over the keeper for Upton
Park to erupt.
It was a much better finish than I had initially given Collison credit for
as his decision to loop the ball into the goal was vital. He could have been
forgiven for just trying to smash it low but he showed what a clever player
he is and that we have produced yet another gem.
The visiting supporters thought they had equalised a few moments later when
a desperate lunge from Upson was not enough and Caicedo found himself in on
goal but his wild shot hit the side netting with some City fans celebrating.
Caicedo had another glorious chance soon after as we again failed to deal
with a ball in the area and it was teed up for the big striker to smash it
high over the bar.
We needed to settle things down and Zola made the right decision in bringing
on Spector who immediately got stuck in. He gave Lucas Neill excellent
protection and helped stifle the Manchester City attacks.
Somehow the ref gave four minutes injury time. Going back to my point in the
first half, how four minutes was added is totally beyond me. If there were
four minutes of stoppages in the second half then there should have been ten
minutes given in the first. Total inconsistency from a very inconsistent
referee.
In the first minute of time added on Manchester City had there last chance
and it came from a free kick from just outside the area. Fans were screaming
at Robert Green to keep his left hand side guarded as he has been beaten by
free kicks in the last two games.
Elano stepped up to take it and he hit it to Green's left and he was beaten
only for Lucas Neill to get the slightest touch on the ball and it clipped
the post and went wide. Plain and simple, without Lucas Neill we would have
conceded.
As the final whistle sounded you could see how much it meant to the players
and the fans. This was an excellent victory and I don't think the players
would have worked harder all season.
Player Reviews
Robert Green
When coming for corners and free kicks he was excellent and did not drop
anything. He made a crucial save in the first half and that was really the
only clear cut save he needed to make.
Lucas Neill
A big performance from Neill who has quietly gone about his business over
the last few months. He has been criticised in the past (his alleged wage
packet has caused a lot of this) but you have to give him credit when it is
due and today he was excellent.
Matthew Upson
His quality is his reading of the game. His distribution is not and it was a
little frustrating to see him waste posession time and time again. In the
air he was dominant and although there were a few shaky moments it was a
decent showing.
James Tomkins
Doesn't have the same prescence as Collins and does need to learn put his
boot through the ball as sometimes this what needs to happen. Overall he
dealt with the tricky Manchester City attackers well and the more games he
plays the better he will get.
Herita Ilunga
I'm running out of things to say about him. Again he was terrific in both
defending and attacking. Sometimes he was too slow in clearing the ball but
I was still impressed with this energetic display.
Valon Behrami
I think his injury will be keeping him out for some time which is gutting as
he has been my hammer of the year. He will be a massive miss.
Radoslav Kovac
After a slow start last Wednesday he looked a little bit sharper and
although he sometimes held on to the ball for too long which led to him
losing posession I thought he had a good game. He was always on hand to mop
up and pick up that loose ball and I think he is a good addition to the
side.
Scott Parker
His recent form has been outstanding. This was no different. Parker was
immense and not only is he fully committed but he is effective. His energy
levels and ability to just keep going is one of his best qualities. Even
when the final whistle was sounding he was running yards to charge down a
pass. Brilliant.
Jack Collison
The young midfielder continues to develop and scored his third goal of the
season. He worked hard but most importantly he is effective on the ball.
Showed lots of skill and a lot of desire.
David Di Michele
The fact is Di Michele makes things happen. He is our most creative player
and although he is a poor finisher faliure to notice how many chances he
creates is just foolish. We have no one else and if Tristan and Sears are
the other options then Di Michele is first choice every day of the week.
Today he did his usual thing of showing how good he is on the ball and then
how bad he is. That's just the type of player he is.
Carlton Cole
No goal for Cole but I wouldn't be too worried as his performance was again
excellent. He really gave Richard Dunne a hard time and worked his arse off
despite people still thinking he is 'lazy'. Should have done better with a
chance in the first half which was set up by Di Michele. He failed to go for
the diving header choosing to try and control the ball instead. Neverthess
it was a busy performance from Cole.
Subs Used
Savio Nsereko (On for Behrami 43 mins)
Played on the left and again game by game we are seeing more of him. He
certainly has ability and is not afraid to get stuck in either. His powerful
shot is what made the goal and with Behrami injured we will be seeing more
of him from now until the end of the season.
Jonathan Spector (on for Kovac 83 mins)
He wasn't on for long but Spector put in really good showing. He worked
really hard and seemed to win everything he went in for.
Walter Lopez (on for Di Michele 87 mins)
On to give us a bit more height and a more defensive shape. Did not see much
of the ball.
Subs Not Used: Lastuvka, Sears, Stanislas, Payne.
Overall
This victory now puts us on 36 points and in to 7th place. It is unlikely
that we could finish any higher than the place we currently occupy but there
is still lots to play for this season. We played some terrific stuff today
and got the result I think we deserved. Manchester City fans will probably
think with the chances they had that they deserved something but our overall
play was better and we were the better team in possession. After the dismal
midweek result confidence has been restored and we go into the Wigan game
with a lot more belief. Injury to Behrami is a big blow but we do have Noble
returning from suspension on Wednesday so it will be interesting to see what
our midfield will look like. Wigan will be tough and they have been
performing well this season but as I have said before, if we keeping playing
this football and creating chances we can beat anyone.
Franco's Feelings
It was vital, it was a crucial game. Our team played a very good match and
they deserved to win this match. I had the feeling that we were playing a
little bit better than them. They had some chances but we had more and I
felt we had control of the game. It was a matter of persisting and playing
at the same level as we did in the first half.
But then in the second half we started quietly, we went quiet for a while so
when the goal came it was unexpected - but it was a good goal and I'm very
pleased.
Att: 34,562.
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Hughes slams negative Hammers
Viewlondon.co.uk
Mark Hughes has slammed West Ham's defensive tactics in the Hammers' 1-0 win
over Manchester City. West Ham condemned City to another away defeat after
Jack Collison scored 11 minutes from time. City were guilty of wasting a
host of chances in the first half, particularly through Robinho. Hughes said
the Hammers did not deserve the victory as they did not play like the home
side. "We were the away side but West Ham for long periods played like the
away side trying to repel attacks," the Welshman said. "Goals change games,
it's an old cliché but it is absolutely true. If we had scored first West
Ham would have had to come out at us, which is when we can pick teams off.
"But when we concede first we find it difficult to put pressure on. Overall
the performance was fine but we are very disappointed to lose away from home
again."
Meanwhile, Hammers boss Gianfranco Zola hailed the display of 20-year-old
Collison in his debut season. "Jack is playing like a veteran, it is
unbelievable," he said. He has got a bright future, he has been working very
hard. The Italian added: "Our team played a big match and we deserved to
win. We were playing a little bit better than them, we had more control of
the game."
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Valon Behrami injury overshadows West Ham win
West Ham United 1 Manchester City 0
Times Online
A serious-looking injury to Valon Behrami took the shine off West Ham's hard
fought and impressive 1-0 win over Manchester City on Sunday. Teenager Jack
Collison was the match-winner with a curling 71st-minute effort,
side-footing home after Shay Given saved from Savio. But West Ham's depleted
defensive resources took another blow when the Swiss defender Behrami was
stretchered off in the first half having twisted his knee attempting a
tackle. It was a lacklustre performance once again from City, although they
should have taken the lead when Craig Bellamy teed up a glorious chance for
Robinho which the Brazilian somehow poked wide. The Welsh striker, roundly
booed by the home support, after his acrimonious exit from Upton Park last
month, was City's main goal threat but was hauled off in the 66th minute.
West Ham began the game impressively with one flowing move leading to David
di Michele shooting tamely straight at Shay Given. But just as the game was
sparking into life, Behrami caught his studs in the turf and his ankle and
knee both twisted in horrific fashion. The defender required oxygen and six
minutes of treatment on the pitch before being stretchered off. West Ham
picked up the tempo after the break as they searched for the goal their play
deserved, with Carlton Cole's header from a corner saved by Given and
Parker's goalbound shot blocked by Wayne Bridge. But it was Wales
international Collison who gave the home side the lead when Savio - on for
Behrami - went on a powerful run down the left, cut inside and shot from 20
yards. Given fine left-handed save parried it out to Collison, who lifted a
deft volley over the keeper and into the net. City pressed for an equaliser
with Felipe Caicedo going close twice and they nearly stole an undeserved
point when Elano's 90th-minute free-kick clipped the post but West Ham hung
on. The defeat could turn up the pressure once more on manager Mark Hughes,
despite the midweek Uefa Cup success against FC Copenhagen, as City still
have not won away from home in the league since August. The result moved
West Ham up to seventh in the Premier League table on 36 points, while
Manchester City remain in 10th spot, four points behind the Hammers.
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Unhappy West Ham return for Manchester's City boy Craig Bellamy
West Ham United (0) 1 Manchester City (0) 0
Telegraph
By John Ley at Upton Park
Last Updated: 5:30PM GMT 01 Mar 2009
As a homecoming it was hardly a cause for celebration for Craig Bellamy, but
in terms of heralding St David's Day, fellow Welsh international Jack
Collison was able to mark March 1 with the match-winner, extending
Manchester City's run without an away league win to more than six months.
On the Principality's Saints' Day, it was all set up for a memorable outing
for Bellamy, so patriotically Welsh that he has a magnificent tattoo of 14th
century Welsh ruler and hero Owen Glendower depicted on his right arm.
Instead, it was left to Collison, a 20-year-old born in Watford but with a
Welsh grandfather, to fly the dragon in east London. The booing began for
Bellamy during the warm-up, reached a crescendo when his name was read out,
continued with every touch and only when the striker was taken off in the
66th minute did the jeers turn to cheers, the Welshman's disappointing day
complete by news that must now visit a specialist to check a knee injury.
And interestingly, the man signed out of the proceeds from the £14 million
sale of Bellamy to Eastlands, Savio, was instrumental in helping the hosts
move to seventh place after coming on early for the unlucky Valon Behrami.
The Swiss international caught his studs in the Upton Park turf in a 38th
minute challenge with City defender Wayne Bridge but it was another five
minute before he left on a stretcher and with a supply of oxygen helping to
ease his pain. West Ham manager Gianfranco Zola confirmed that Behrami had
been taken to hospital and that the club were awaiting the results of an MRI
scan and that he will miss Wednesday's trip to Wigan. But City may have to
pay a heavier price ahead of Wednesday's home game against Villa; Micah
Richards is doubtful with a hamstring problem while Robinho could miss the
game after coming off in added time with an ankle injury. And Bellamy's
hopes of facing Villa are slim.
City, though, might have been ahead early on when, in the 15th minute,
Vincent Kompany's shot was back-healed by Robinho, played onside by a stray
defender, but Robert Green saved well. Soon afterwards City lost Richards,
in a challenge with Scott Parker. But with Bellamy drifting from a central
striker's role to a wide berth, City became erratic. Collison forced a save
out Shay Given, Carlton Cole shot over and David Di Michele was also
thwarted by the City goalkeeper before Behrami departed and, in the second
half, West Ham, inspired by the influential Parker, deservedly went ahead,
in the 71st minute. Savio, who impressed, sent a teasing shot towards goal,
Given made an equally impressive save but Collison side-footed a looping
effort to claim the points. City squandered late chances with Felipe Caicedo
missing two opportunities either side of a wasted effort from Robinho but
manager Mark Hughes believed his side deserved more.
"The least we deserved was a draw if not a win," insisted another Welshman
who wears a ring depicting the Prince of Wales feathers. "There were periods
when we dominated possession but goals change games and we needed to score
when we created chances."
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Bellamy sees specialist as injury crisis hits Hughes
Striker likely to miss Villa game on Wednesday
Digg it Sachin Nakrani at Upton Park guardian.co.uk, Sunday 1 March 2009
19.04 GMT
The Manchester City striker Craig Bellamy will see a specialist in London
tomorrow over a knee problem sustained during his team's 1–0 defeat at West
Ham United today as an injury crisis added to the pressure on Mark Hughes.
City's manager faces an anxious wait to discover the seriousness of
Bellamy's problem after the striker came off complaining of discomfort in
his knee. Whereas the rest of the squad returned to Manchester, Bellamy
remained in the capital for tomorrow's check-up and looks likely to miss
Wednesday's game against Aston Villa at the very least. So do Robinho, who
hurt an ankle, and Micah Richards, who was substituted with a hamstring
problem.
Hughes needs a strong end to the season to ensure he continues at City and
fears that Robinho, his top scorer, will be out for several matches. "He got
tackled on the edge of the box late on in the match and he thinks he has got
a similar injury to when we played Arsenal a while back and which forced him
to miss a number of games," Hughes said. "The likelihood is that he will
miss Wednesday."
"We just hope [Bellamy] will be fit and well for Wednesday as he's been
outstanding for us so far," said the manager, whose team have won just one
of their past five league matches. Hughes admitted today the club's away
form is a "real concern" and it cannot help that their next league trip is
to Chelsea on 15 March. By then, City could be just three points above the
relegation zone should they lose to Villa.
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Collison ruins Bellamy's return
The Independent
West Ham United 1 Manchester City 0
By Conrad Leach
Monday, 2 March 2009
On St David's Day, and with Craig Bellamy returning to West Ham, it seemed a
distinct possibility, especially given the abuse doled out to him, that the
home supporters might end up regretting taunting a player who has made a
habit of scoring against his former clubs. It was a Welshman who walked away
with the plaudits, all right, but he was wearing a West Ham shirt and his
name was Jack Collison.
The 20-year-old Wales international – born in Watford – was shuffled from
left to right during the game but it left him unruffled when it came to the
game's decisive moment, 20 minutes from time.
The reason for the positional swap had been Valon Behrami's injury, which
led to the introduction of Savio Nsereko. When Savio broke from midfield and
advanced on Shay Given, bringing a diving save from the Republic of Ireland
international, Collison was there to lob the stranded goalkeeper from the
rebound. "He's a great example. We're very lucky to have him," said his
manager Gianfranco Zola, after a first win in six games. West Ham are
seventh in the league. "Now I'm looking up the table," the Italian said,
thinking of next season's Uefa Cup replacement, the Europa League.
After the distraught expressions on West Ham faces when Behrami was taken
off on a stretcher, following five minutes' treatment, including being given
oxygen, for his buckled left knee, it was Manchester City who were left to
show the pain of a desperately below-par season.
Mark Hughes's men have won only once away from home in the league and that
came against Sunderland, at the end of August, before Robinho joined. They
may be in the last 16 of the Uefa Cup, but that is small consolation to
Hughes after a display that showed all the cohesion of melting jelly. But
Hughes was surprisingly upbeat. "We felt we deserved a draw and got caught
by a sucker punch. But the away form is a concern," he conceded.
Much of the build-up to this game had been about Bellamy. He only stayed 18
months at Upton Park, scoring seven league goals, and his contribution here
did not exactly cause pangs of longing in east London. The Welsh
international was taken off with a knee complaint, after an underwhelming 66
minutes. The boos that greeted his name before kick-off were nothing
compared to when he was replaced, although he appeared unmoved, laughing it
all off as he departed the public's gaze.
Bellamy had set up one chance for City, in the first half, although when it
reached Robinho, he was not expecting it and duly poked it wide of Rob
Green's goal.
Robinho had a poor game. The Brazilian, criticised for his below-par
performances on the road, had another chance to redeem himself after the
interval, but with 14 minutes left he shot over from eight yards. The £31m
Brazil international limped off just before the end, with an ankle injury,
and must have been glad to see the back of this game. He, Bellamy, and
captain Micah Richards are all doubts for the game against Aston Villa on
Wednesday.
Behrami's injury was far more serious, and he was in hospital last night
having a scan. The Swiss international attempted to tackle Wayne Bridge but
instead his foot became stuck in the turf. He left to a standing ovation
from a crowd who must have assumed they would not see him again until next
season.
As City's season limps on, how many of these players will still be at the
club in August is also now a matter for serious conjecture.
Goal: Collison (70) 1-0
West Ham United (4-4-2): Green; Neill, Tomkins, Upson, Ilunga; Behrami
(Savio, 43), Kovac (Spector, 83), Parker, Collison; Di Michele (Lopez, 87),
Cole Substitutes not used: Lastuvka (gk), Sears, Payne, Stanislas.
Manchester City (4-2-3-1): Given; Richards (Caicedo, 15) Dunne, Onuoha,
Bridge; De Jong (Bojinov, 89), Zabaleta; Ireland, Kompany, Robinho; Bellamy
(Elano, 66) Substitutes not used: Hart (gk), Vassell, Garrido, Berti.
Referee: M Dean (Wirral).
Booked: West Ham United: Kovac, Parker; Manchester City: Kompany, Ireland.
Man of the Match: Parker.
Attendance: 34,562.
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Arbitrations And Moratoriums
Just Like My Dreams
A slightly more interesting than usual Sunday tabloid spread begins with Rob
Shepherd's assertion that the Hammers will not be held to ransom by
Sheffield United's outrageous compensation claim in the upcoming arbitration
hearing. The club are reported to be staggered that the Blades have
submitted a bill for relegation from the Premier League totalling
£45.5million, with the Upton Park hierarchy insisting a full examination of
the books will reveal the true cost to be a fraction of that. As it stands,
West Ham contend the genuine 'cost' is no more than £5million.
In his exclusive in the News of the World, Shepherd 'understands' West Ham
United officials would be willing to negotiate a settlement with the
Yorkshire club ahead of the two-week arbitration procedure which is set to
start on March 16. The Hammers believe when such things as significant
reduction to Sheffield's wage bill and running costs are evaluated the
Blades' bill will be exposed as excessive in the extreme and Sheffield
United could run the risk of substantially losing out when the whole cost of
the legal fight is factored in as well as having potentially sensitive
financial deals exposed. The Hammers have already been fined £5.5million for
irregularities surrounding Tevez's contract when the Argentina striker
signed for the club under a third-party agreement.
In the meantime, the Sunday Mirror believe West Ham are set to be taken over
by a group of Asian investors in an imminent £90million deal. The group from
the Far East are said to be close to replacing the current Icelandic owners
with talks thought to be at advanced stage. Indeed, writes Bill Mills,
business might even be concluded within the next week. The prospective
owners are believed to be a wealthy industrial group who already have the
funds in place to buy the club from Bjorgolfur Gudmundsson.
Gudmundsson's Icelandic company arrived at Upton Park in November 2006 after
clinching the £85million deal that paved the way for the departure of
chairman Terry Brown. Eggert Magnusson was subsequently named chairman and
splashed out vast transfer fees while agreeing inflated contracts that are
now millstones around the club's neck. Mills reports that Gudmundsson then
took over at the helm only for his long-term future in English football to
be undermined by the worldwide credit crunch. He was later removed as
chairman of Landsbanki, Iceland's second largest bank, following its
collapse and government takeover.
It was at this point that rumours of the availability of the club began to
circulate, and the deal is now set to take place. The buyers will, though,
have to be happy about the potential debts they are inheriting. Apart from
the small issue of Sheffield United's claim from the Carlos Tevez affair,
former manager Alan Curbishley is still pursuing a £3million compensation
suit and there remains a settlement issue with Kia Joorabchian that could
cost up to £10million. That is aside from the provision of funds for
Gianfranco Zola's future team building.
This story comes just hours after it was revealed that West Ham United face
a crucial day in the Icelandic courts this week, when a judge could force
owner Bjorgolfur Gudmundsson to sell the club for a knockdown price.
According to the Mail, Gudmundsson is hoping judges grant him an order to
extend a moratorium which currently restricts banks from attempting to seize
his assets. If the deal with a Far Eastern consortium is now as close as is
suggested, and not merely a fabrication designed to stall for time, then it
would be the favoured outcome for all parties and it is likely he will be
afforded the leeway to conclude the sale. The article states that West Ham
United remain confident that the decision will go their way, as the best way
of maximising the price of the club is to allow the current sale process.
However, if the decision goes against them, slathers the Mail, the club
could end up being run by a consortium of banks, who would attempt to sell
the club as quickly as possible.
Friday's judgment relates to West Ham's holding company, Hansa, which was
granted the original moratorium in November. One bank, MP Bank, has objected
to the initial ruling and several commentators have noted that the stated
£250million price Hansa placed on West Ham at the time was always
unrealistic in the current economic climate. That would certainly seem to be
the case if the terms of the sale as revealed in the Mirror today turn out
to be accurate.
Posted by Trilby at 11:25
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HAMMERS COULD END TEVEZ AFFAIR
Upton Park officials ready to negotiate with Sheffield United
News Of The World
By ROB SHEPHERD, 28/02/2009
WEST HAM would be willing to make an out-of-court settlement with Sheffield
United to end finally the Carlos Tevez affair. But the Hammers will not be
held to ransom and are staggered that the Blades have submitted a bill for
relegation from the Premier League totalling £45.5million. Upton Park
bigwigs insist a full examination of the Blades' books will reveal the true
cost is a fraction of that. As it stands, West Ham contend the genuine
"cost" is no more than £5m. But I understand club officials would be willing
to negotiate a settlement with United ahead of the arbitration proceedures
which will make a ruling on the figure. The two-week hearing starts on March
16. West Ham believe when such things as significant reduction to
Sheffield's wage bill and running costs are evaluated the Blades' bill will
be exposed as way over the top. The Yorkshire club could run the risk of
substantially losing out when the whole cost of the legal fight is factored
in as well as having potentially sensitive financial deals exposed. The
Hammers have already been fined £5.5m for irregularities surrounding Tevez's
contract when the hitman signed for the club under a third-party agreement.
A commission also found West Ham then breached regulations, concluding that
Tevez was worth a three-point deduction. West Ham survived with a final-day
win at Manchester United when Tevez scored. The Blades went down after
losing to Wigan.
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ALAN PARDEW FOR BRIGHTON
Former Hammers boss is surprise candidate
News Of The World
28/02/2009
ALAN PARDEW is a surprise candidate for the vacant manager's job at
ambitious Brighton. The former Charlton and West Ham boss has emerged as a
leading contender to replace sacked Micky Adams after top target Jim Gannon
rejected the job. Pards, who lives in Sussex, was fired by the Addicks in
November and Brighton chairman Dick Knight said: "We are looking for someone
with experience."
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WEST HAM 1, MAN CITY 0
News Of The World
01/03/2009
GIANFRANCO ZOLA hailed his match-winning duo of Savio Nsereko and Jack
Collison after they combined to see off Manchester City 1-0 at Upton Park.
Record buy Savio came off the bench for the injured Valon Behrami and it was
his run and shot which helped to tee up Collison for a neatly-taken winner
in the 71st minute. Both men earned warm praise from their manager, with
Zola particularly pleased with Collison's efforts. Asked about the
difference in performance between the homegrown talent and the off-colour
Robinho — Manchester City's £32million buy from Real Madrid — he said: "That
is the beauty of football. Sometimes if you have passion and if you have
belief you can be successful and I think Jack Collison is an example of all
of that. "Jack is unbelievable, he's getting better and better. He's 19 and
he's playing nearly every week. He's got a very good attitude and he is
going to get better and better."
Collison is a left-sided player by choice but excelled on the right and Zola
insists versatility is a big part of his game. "I feel very lucky to have
him. Not only him but other players. that's why I like the attitude here,"
the Italian added. "I can play them in different positions. As long as you
know how to play football you can still produce and be important for the
team. I'm sure I could play Jack Collison up front or right at the back and
he could still produce good results for the team."
Savio, a club record buy in January from Italian side Brescia, is another
who is gradually making his mark on the Premier League and Zola was pleased
with his game-turning cameo. "Savio has done well, the boy came on today and
played a good game. "I'm pleased for him because he came here with a lot of
expectations and to be honest he was a little bit under pressure because he
knows people are waiting for something special from him. "But I'm pleased
with how he is working and his attitude is good. He is going to be a
successful player here I'm sure. "We bought him because he has something
different, something that is sometimes missing in a game and today we saw a
little bit of that. I'm sure there's still a lot to come from him."
Zola's opposite number, City boss Mark Hughes, was disappointed to see his
side revert to type after putting an end to their dismal away record with an
impressive 1-1 draw at Liverpool. "It was frustrating because we created
good chances in the game and there were long periods when we were in the
ascendancy," said Hughes. "The away form has been a concern all year. We
have done better in recent games and we were excellent against Liverpool.
"In that game we scored first, we were quite comfortable in the game and we
got a positive result. "Today we haven't been able to get that positive
result. Perhaps we've played a little too much like the home team on the
road this year and we've been caught on the break. That happened again
here."
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West Ham United 1Manchester City 0
Virgin Media
01 Mar 2009
West Ham manager Gianfranco Zola hailed his match-winning duo of Savio
Nsereko and Jack Collison after they combined to see off Manchester City 1-0
at Upton Park.
Record buy Savio came off the bench for the injured Valon Behrami and it was
his run and shot which helped to tee up Collison for a neatly-taken winner
in the 71st minute.
Both men earned warm praise from their manager, with Zola particularly
pleased with Collison's efforts. Asked about the difference in performance
between the homegrown talent and the off-colour Robinho - Manchester City's
#32million buy from Real Madrid - he said: "That is the beauty of football.
Sometimes if you have passion and if you have belief you can be successful
and I think Jack Collison is an example of all of that. "Jack is
unbelievable, he's getting better and better. He's 19 and he's playing
nearly every week. He's got a very good attitude and he is going to get
better and better."
Collison is a left-sided player by choice but excelled on the right and Zola
insists versatility is a big part of his game. "I feel very lucky to have
him. Not only him but other players. that's why I like the attitude here,"
the Italian added. "I can play them in different positions. As long as you
know how to play football you can still produce and be important for the
team. I'm sure I could play Jack Collison up front or right at the back and
he could still produce good results for the team."
Savio, a club record buy in January from Italian side Brescia, is another
who is gradually making his mark on the Premier League and Zola was pleased
with his game-turning cameo. "Savio has done well, the boy came on and
played a good game. "I'm pleased for him because he came here with a lot of
expectations and to be honest he was a little bit under pressure because he
knows people are waiting for something special from him. "But I'm pleased
with how he is working and his attitude is good. He is going to be a
successful player here I'm sure. "We bought him because he has something
different, something that is sometimes missing in a game and today we saw a
little bit of that. "I'm sure there's still a lot to come from him."
Zola's opposite number, City boss Mark Hughes, was disappointed to see his
side revert to type after putting an end to their dismal away record with an
impressive 1-1 draw at Liverpool. "It was frustrating because we created
good chances in the game and there were long periods when we were in the
ascendancy," said Hughes. "The away form has been a concern all year. We
have done better in recent games and we were excellent against Liverpool.
"In that game we scored first, we were quite comfortable in the game and we
got a positive result. "Today we haven't been able to get that positive
result. Perhaps we've played a little too much like the home team on the
road this year and we've been caught on the break. "I think that happened
again here."
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West Ham 1 Manchester City 0: Craig Bellamy is upstaged by the superb Savio
By Simon Cass Last updated at 5:08 AM on 02nd March 2009
Daily Mail
Having spent only 18 months at Upton Park, much of which was on the
treatment table, Craig Bellamy was never likely to enter into West Ham
folklore. It was a fact reflected in the somewhat lukewarm abuse the
Welshman received on his return with Manchester City. There was no Paul Ince
or Frank Lampard treatment for Bellamy; the level of vitriol did not go
beyond being told to go forth and multiply. West Ham fans will, however, be
hoping that they will be chanting the names of Savio Nsereko and Jack
Collison for many years to come. Savio, introduced for the injured Valon
Behrami before the break, helped swing the gamein West Ham's favour. After
turning Nedum Onuoha inside out, his shot from the edge of the box was too
hot for Shay Given to handle and allowed Collison to loop the ball over the
stranded City keeper. A nice way for the Welsh international to celebrate St
David's Day, not so clever for Bellamy or his manager Mark Hughes, however.
That Savio was involved in the goal will have been all the sweeter for
Hammers fans given £5million of the £14m they received from City for Bellamy
went as a down payment to Italian side Brescia for his services.
And the fact that 20-year-old Collison has come through West Ham's youth
ranks will also be pleasing. 'It was a close game but I think in the end we
deserved it a bit more than them,' said Zola 'Savio came on and did really
well and I am pleased for him. 'As for Jack Collison, he showed that if you
have passion, heart and belief you can be successful and I think he has all
three of those qualities.'
In fairness to Bellamy - who got the second biggest cheer of the day when he
was replaced by Elano after feeling a problem in his knee - he has been
decent business for City. He was also one of City's players prepared to put
himself about, despite being shifted to the right after Scott Parker's
challenge saw Micah Richards withdrawn after 15 minutes. The same cannot be
said of Robinho, who once again turned in a shockingly disinterested
performance for his team-mates, manager and fans. Those who watched his
career unfold at Real Madrid will not be surprised. Asked whether Bellamy
had been affected by the barracking from the terraces, Hughes replied with a
broad grin: 'No, not at all.' At least somebody had given him reason to
smile.
MATCH FACTS
WEST HAM UNITED: (4-4-2): Green 7; Neill 7, Tomkins 6, Upson 7, Ilunga 7;
Behrami 6 (Savio 43min, 7), Parker 7, Kovac 6 (Spector 83), Collison 7; Cole
7, Di Michele 6 (Lopez 87). Booked: Parker, Kovac.
MANCHESTER CITY: (4-3-2-1): Given 7; Richards 6 (Caicedo 15, 6), Dunne 6,
Onuoha 6, Bridge 6; Kompany 6, De Jong 5 (Bojinov 89), Zabaleta 6; Ireland
6, Robinho 4; Bellamy 6 (Elano 66, 6). Booked: Kompany, Ireland.
Man of the match: Savio Nsereko.
Referee: Mike Dean.
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Zola: Savio Nsereko Already Looking The Part At West Ham
Gianfranco Zola continues to wax lyrical about new West Ham signing Savio
Nsereko...
2 Mar 2009 06:55:50
Goal.com
West Ham new boy Savio Nsereko was hailed by Gianfranco Zola after his
substitute appearance proved key to the hard-earned victory over Manchester
City last weekend. The 19-year-old former Brescia standout showed
tantalizing glimpses of why he is the Hammers' record signing, with the East
London outfit believed to have paid the Italians £9 million to have secured
the striker's services. "Savio has done well, the boy came on today and
played a good game," enthused Zola on the club's official website. "I'm
pleased for him because he came here with a lot of expectations and to be
honest he was a little bit under pressure because he knows people are
waiting for something special from him. "But I'm pleased with how he is
working and his attitude is good. He is going to be a successful player here
I'm sure," added "We bought him because he has something different,
something that is sometimes missing in a game and today we saw a little bit
of that. "I'm sure there's still a lot to come from him."
Derek Wanner, Goal.com
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West Ham boss Zola tips Payne, Stanislas to be next off conveyor belt
02.03.09 | tribalfootball.com
West Ham United boss Gianfranco Zola says it's not just local youngsters
James Tomkins and Jack Collison who could make an impact in the remaining
months of the season. For their victory over Manchester City, 18-year-old
playmaker Josh Payne and tricky 19-year-old winger Junior Stanislas were on
the substitute's bench - with both tipped for bright futures. Zola told
whufc.com: "In the last few days we have been unlucky to pick up injuries
which shortened the squad even more. That's the way we decided to go until
the end of the season. If everybody keeps performing how we did today
everybody is going to be all right. Plus there are a couple of interesting
young players and I'm sure we will find space for them."
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CURBS WARNING FROM LUCKY ZOLA
Daily Star
ALAN CURBISHLEY reckons West Ham will pay the price for their January
transfer dealings – claiming Gianfranco Zola's men have been incredibly
lucky this season.
Lee Bowyer, Julien Faubert, Matthew Etherington and Hayden Mullins all left
Upton Park last month. And Curbishley, who quit the club last September
after a reign blighted by injuries, says Zola has left himself desperately
short of cover. "I don't think they could have really let any more players
go,"said Curbs. "A lot of the fringe players have left and I think that's
left them a little bit short. But they seem to be having the luck I never
had regarding injuries. "They don't want injuries now because they have a
settled side playing well but a couple of injuries can change that. "I
didn't have the luxury of playing the same side twice.I never had a fully
fit James Collins or Scott Parker but that's the way it goes. "But the squad
I left there was decent."
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