WHUFC.com
More international success has come Robert Hall's way after he helped
England to a final defeat of Germany
13.04.2009
Robert Hall helped England Under-16s on Monday to win the prestigious
international Montaigu Tournament in France for the second year running.
The 15-year-old West Ham United forward - one of the youngest players in the
Young Lions squad - played the final ten minutes of the goalless draw before
England went on to defeat Germany by 2-1 on penalties. It was his second
trophy with the national team, after he played a part in England claiming
the Victory Shield competition for the home nations last autumn.
Hall had made a significant impact in the group stage, figuring in all three
games. Most notably, he scored the crucial first goal in the decisive 3-0
round-robin win against Russia on Saturday, after the previous successes
against United Arab Emirates and Ivory Coast.
He will now return to Little Heath on a high, and will look to make even
more of an impact on Tony Carr's Under-18 side in the final four fixtures of
the season. Despite his age and that he is more used to figuring at U16
level, Hall has already played seven times for the highest Academy age group
and scored four goals.
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Reid leads loanees
WHUFC.com
Loanee Kyel Reid was in fine form for the Championship leaders at Derby
County on Easter Monday
13.04.2009
West Ham United loanee Kyel Reid played a starring role as Wolverhampton
Wanderers came from behind to win 3-2 at Derby County on Easter Monday.
The 21-year-old winger, one of eight homegrown Hammers to appear in the West
Ham first team this campaign, was sent on as a 61st-minute substitute by
Wolves manager Mick McCarthy at Pride Park and responded with a virtuoso
display for the Coca-Cola Championship leaders.
Arriving with Wolves 2-1 down, Reid's superb play led to a 74th-minute
equaliser for Matt Jarvis before Andy Keogh stole all three points for the
Midlanders with just three minutes remaining. Wanderers are now seven points
clear of third-placed Sheffield United with just three matches to play.
Reid's fellow West Ham loanee Nigel Quashie was not involved for Wolves.
Lee Bowyer completed a full 90 minutes for ten-man Birmingham City as the
second-placed Blues drew 1-1 with Plymouth Argyle at St Andrews. City had
goalkeeper Maik Taylor sent-off for a professional foul on 26 minutes, with
Paul Gallagher netting the resulting penalty. Substitute Franck Queudrue, on
for injured former Hammers trainee Liam Ridgewell, who suffered a
season-ending broken leg, netted the equaliser five minutes after half-time.
Birmingham are six points behind leaders Wolves with three matches
remaining.
In League One, Jordan Spence was involved from start to finish as Leyton
Orient won 1-0 at Swindon Town. The O's are 15th in the table and
mathematically safe from relegation with three matches still to play. Spence
has been instrumental in an incredible run for Orient that has seen them win
seven and draw one of their last nine games. He returns to the club on
Monday 4 May and will hope to play a part in the final three Premier League
games of the season.
Left-back Joe Widdowson completed a full 90 minutes for League Two
relegation scrappers Grimsby Town as they picked up a vital 2-0 win at Notts
County. The Mariners are 22nd in the table, a point clear of the bottom-two
with three games to go. Striker Jack Jeffery also played a full part as
Eastbourne Borough beat Grays Athletic 2-1 in the Blue Square Premier.
In Hungary's Soproni Liga, midfielder Tony Stokes was a second-half
substitute in Ujpest FC's 3-0 victory over REAC on Saturday. Title-chasing
Ujpest are a point clear of second-placed Debrecen with ten matches
remaining. Julien Faubert was not involved as Real Madrid kept up the
pressure on La Liga leaders Barcelona with a 2-0 win over Valladolid at the
Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on Sunday.
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Upson on the up
WHUFC.com
Matthew Upson believes West Ham United's defensive strength can help to
secure a top-seven finish
13.04.2009
Matthew Upson believes West Ham United's defensive strength can carry the
Hammers into next season's UEFA Europa League.
Gianfranco Zola's team have conceded just two goals in their last six
Premier League matches. A similarly impressive record over the final
half-dozen league matches of the season should see West Ham gather enough
points to ensure they finish in the top-seven, securing European
qualification in the process.
Upson, who is well-known for his in-depth interest in the finer points of
the game, said there was no coincidence behind the Hammers' consistent
defensive performances.
"We are looking very strong tactically and positionally," he said. "We have
done a lot of work and people's awareness is good. Not only are we
challenging for the ball well but people are in the right positions.
"Without a doubt there is a science to it in terms of awareness and
positional sense and if you get those things right it makes everything a bit
easier."
West Ham's impressive rearguard were at their best again at Tottenham
Hotspur on Saturday, when only a superbly-taken second half goal from Russia
international Roman Pavlyuchenko proved to be the difference between the two
sides.
Upson and central defensive partner James Collins - back in the team
following a hamstring injury - were as resolute as ever, while James Tomkins
looked comfortable in an unaccustomed role at right-back.
"They didn't really create a lot. If you look at the possession stats we
probably didn't do too well but that's not what the game is about. It's
about the scoreline.
"Looking at the goal-scoring opportunities, there were very few of them. I
thought we had the best chance of the match but unfortunately we didn't take
it. It was a huge turning point, but we have to move on.
"There was no grey area. There was always going to be one moment that
decided the game. Pavlyuchenko did well to drag his shot through Ginge's
legs. James didn't get the wrong side of him or anything - it was just a
great finish.
"As a young lad coming in and playing out of position at full-back, Tomka
did well. It shows how far he has come. He uses the ball well and his future
looks bright."
Upson will hope to celebrate his 30th birthday on Saturday with victory at
Aston Villa. As a former Birmingham City player, the centre-back is sure to
receive a warm welcome at Villa Park, where he could face the very different
challenges of target-men John Carew and Emile Heskey and young speedsters
Ashley Young and Gabriel Agbonlahor.
"It's another big test. We go there missing quite a lot of players, so our
strength in depth is being really tested. I think we've come through it
really well and the players that have come in have done a good job. We can
go there and get a result."
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Manager on Monday
WHUFC.com
With six games to go, Gianfranco Zola is thinking big for his players and
not just in the season finale
13.04.2009
Gianfranco Zola has reiterated that his young players have every chance of
proving themselves in the game - provided they "work hard everyday and keep
the right attitude".
In a week when his homegrown Hammers were rightly in the spotlight for
lifting the club back up to seventh place, much of the weekend focus at
White Hart Lane was on James Tomkins, Junior Stanislas, Freddie Sears and
Mark Noble. Despite a 1-0 defeat by Tottenham Hotspur, the manager believed
his crop of youngsters had shown they have every chance of one day living up
to previous academy graduates .
"We will see in time," said Zola. "I believe that when Rio [Ferdinand],
[Frank] Lampard or Joe Cole were coming through, they were just promising.
Then they improved. It is just down to my players. If they work hard
everyday and keep the right attitude, they can do that.
"I believe that everybody owns their own destiny. When I was started there
were a few that said I wouldn't become a player but they didn't know my
attitude and my mentality. I believe my players have the same attitude and
they can become important players."
Despite media attention on comments from outside the club, Zola said he paid
little attention. "I will use other things to motivate my players," he
explained. "If they push themselves hard and they believe in what they are
doing they are going to get beyond the limits that maybe people are putting
on them right now.
"I would like to say that if they achieve something it is down to me but it
is not like that. I can only show them the direction but after that they
have to move on and it is all totally down to them. As far as I am concerned
I will always be there showing them the line, but the work is down to them."
Where Zola will be working is on his strikeforce, with his defence still
standing strong after conceding just twice in six games. He paid tribute to
the efforts of Diego Tristan in leading the attack - especially in the
absence of Carlton Cole and, since he arrived in September, Dean Ashton.
Zola said: "Diego has done very well, it is not easy. This is the third game
he has played of 90 minutes, more or less … you have to be understanding
with him.
"We have played all season without Dean Ashton When Ashton is back it is
going to be a huge thing for the club. We hope he will get a full
pre-season. The [ankle] operation went well and he is doing very well. We
are looking forward to having him back at his best."
For now, the emphasis is on those able to play in the final half-dozen games
and defending a one-point lead on Fulham and a further two-point advantage
on Tottenham Hotspur. Zola said finishing seventh, particularly above Spurs,
would be "a big achievement for us considering also the kind of players they
have in their team. It would be huge.
"The good thing about football is that it is not always down to money. You
play against a team who has spent so much money and honestly West Ham stood
up against them. That makes me very proud."
He acknowledged the impact made by match-winner Roman Pavyluchenko on
Saturday after a difficult spell since his arrival in London, unlike the
easy transition he himself had, first as a player and then in taking the
reins at West Ham. He said he had arrived in an "environment which was
perfect" and where "everything fell into place". Like his young players, the
young manager has every chance of going all the way.
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Zola still on track
WHUFC.com
With half-a-dozen matches to play, Gianfranco Zola knows his team are in
prime position for Europe
11.04.2009
Gianfranco Zola was pleased with his side's effort as they succumbed to a
narrow defeat by Tottenham Hotspur but remain in the driving seat for
seventh spot with six games left
Eight of West Ham United's matchday squad of 18 were aged 23 or under and
Zola was pleased to see the way his youngsters stepped up to the challenge
of a difficult derby. Having given themselves a great platform with a 2-0
home win against Sunderland last week, the manager knew it would be a
sterner test on Saturday against a Spurs team that had beaten Chelsea in
their previous home fixture.
Zola said: "Last week we played against a team that was in a different
situation. Today was a different matter against a very good team in a derby.
Junior Stanislas didn't look like he was a rookie and the same goes for
James Tomkins. So I'm pleased as they are progressing and progressing very
well. I know that I can rely on them whenever I need."
David Di Michele put in another tireless performance up front and was
desperately unlucky to be thwarted by two good saves from Tottenham
goalkeeper Heurelho Gomes in the second half. His manager was pleased with
the striker's all-round contribution to the team and believes he just needs
a small change of fortune in front of goal.
"When Di Michele went through I thought this was the moment. But he is very
unlucky right now. He is playing very well for the team and is probably one
of the most important members of the team, but is not very lucky in front of
the goal. Considering all the circumstances, the only thing I can say is
words to praise the team."
Those "circumstances" included yet another reshuffle to accommodate Jonathan
Spector's absence - after his concussion last weekend - with Lucas Neill and
James Tomkins covering in a holding midfield role and at right-back
respectively. Scott Parker (groin) and Radoslav Kovac (thigh) were also
still out and Zola was pleased with the way his squad responded against a
Spurs team minus only two first-teamers.
"I knew that the first 15 minutes of the second half would be the crucial
moment. That's what we tried to do," Zola said. "We thought if we keep our
composure and frustrate them then we have a good chance. We had a good
chance and missed and then they had a chance and scored.
"[Roman] Pavlyuchenko scored a good goal and that was the difference about
it because the team played very well. Tottenham, in my opinion, is on paper
one of the six best teams in the country but my team stood up against them
and played without fear. It could have easily been a point and nobody would
have said anything about that."
Despite not getting the rub of the green at White Hart Lane, there were some
positives elsewhere in the Barclays Premier League as other results mean
West Ham United remain three points clear of their rivals in the league
standings. Zola is determined to push hard for the prize of a continental
campaign next season.
"We are confident, we are still three points clear and we are going to
defend those points with everything we can. You can see the team is
determined and together and it would be a pity if we don't [qualify] because
every single game they give everything and that is very good."
One more positive to take back to east London was another valuable 20 minute
run-out for Kieron Dyer. Zola is happy to see the England international edge
ever closer to a first Premier League start since August 2007. "It is just a
matter of physical condition, he is getting better and better and I'm
looking forward to giving him more time on the pitch but that is working
very well as his attitude is good and it won't be long."
Zola's thoughts will have already begun switching to next weekend's away
trip to Aston Villa, where he will hope to welcome back Scott Parker from
the injury which has kept him out of the last two matches. Kovac travelled
to White Hart Lane and only just missed out on taking his place in the team
after a late fitness test. Jack Collison and Carlton Cole could also still
play a part this campaign.
"We are in that position where we can go to every single game and give our
best and not feel too much pressure. So we know it is a difficult game but
it is going to be difficult for them as well. I hope to have Parker back as
he is an important player for us and he is getting better and better, but we
want to make sure he is 100 per cent fit."
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Jimmy Neighbour
WHUFC.com
Tributes are being paid to former winger Jimmy Neighbour after he passed
away aged 58
11.04.2009
West Ham United are mourning the death of Jimmy Neighbour after he passed
away at the age of 58.
Neighbour suffered a heart attack on Saturday. He had been recovering at
home after a hip replacement operation. The popular winger scored six goals
in 97 appearances for the club between September 1979 and November 1982 -
including the 1981 League Cup final - before later working for the club's
youth academy, after a successful spell as manager of non-league Enfield
Town.
The Chingford-born Neighbour had begun his career at Tottenham Hotspur,
playing for their first team between 1970 and 1976 and later returned to the
club as a youth-team coach. He had joined West Ham after a three-year spell
at Norwich City and a summer with US side Seattle Sounders. He ended his
playing days with a brief spell on loan at Bournemouth before heading into
coaching.
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Liverpool kick-off change
WHUFC.com
West Ham United will play host to the Reds on the evening of Saturday 9 May
rather than at 3pm
09.04.2009
West Ham United's home fixture against Liverpool on Saturday 9 May will
kick-off at 5.30pm after being selected for broadcast on television.
Setanta Sports will show the match live, with plenty set to be riding on the
contest as Liverpool push for the title and Gianfranco Zola's side aim to
secure a place in next season's UEFA Europa League. This fixture last season
on 30 January 2008 saw West Ham run out 1-0 winners thanks to Mark Noble's
last-gasp penalty. The Hammers followed that up with a goalless draw at
Anfield on 1 December.
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Hall on England high
WHUFC.com
West Ham United will be represented when England compete in the finals of an
international U16 event
12.04.2009
Robert Hall has a final to look forward to on Monday after he scored his
first goal for England as the Under-16s made it three wins from three in the
prestigious international Montaigu Tournament.
The 15-year-old West Ham United forward struck the opening goal of
Saturday's 3-0 win against Ivory Coast that completed a tremendous week for
the Young Lions. Last week, England had won 3-0 against United Arab Emirates
and defeated Russia by a 3-1 scoreline. Hall is one of the youngest members
of Kenny Swain's squad.
Last autumn, Hall helped England win the Victory Shield and they look in
prime position to defend their Montaigu title. Having won Group B with a
perfect record, they will face Group A's top team Germany in Monday
afternoon's final before heading home to their clubs. Hall has already made
his Under-18 breakthrough this season with four goal from seven appearances.
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Spurs 1-0 West Ham United
WHUFC.com
11.04.2009
Barclays Premier League
Tottenham Hotspur v West Ham United
White Hart Lane
Saturday 11 April
3pm
Referee: Martin Atkinson
FULL TIME - Tottenham Hotspur 1-0 West Ham United
96 min - I don't know where all this time is coming from, but Modric forces
a corner off Stanislas. Surely that will be that... It is. The final whistle
goes. West Ham gave it their all, and can still be confident heading to
Aston Villa next Saturday. Middlesbrough are 3-1 up against Hull while
Arsenal have netted twice late on to beat Wigan 4-1 at the JJB Stadium.
94 min - Stanislas works hard to cut out Lennon's pass to Modric. The
teenager has done well again this afternoon, but it looks like West Ham's
five-match unbeaten run is going to end unless they can make something from
Green's free-kick. The ball is claimed by Gomes. Woodgate is booked, I'm not
sure what for though. The supporters thought the game was over!
92 min - Di Michele picks up Stanislas' pass and tricks his marker before
trying to curl the ball in with his left foot, only for his shot to hit
Woodgate. The visiting fans shout 'Handball' in unison, much to the ironic
amusement of the home supporters. Just over a minute to go...
90 min - Noble is the fourth West Ham player to see yellow for a late
challenge on Huddlestone that leaves his England Under-21 colleague needing
treatment. There will be four added minutes.
89 min - As things stand, West Ham will stay seventh as Wigan are losing to
Arsenal.
88 min - Sears gives the ball away to Pavlyuchenko. The Russian feeds
Lennon, but Green is out smartly to save with his legs. The loose ball
breaks to Keane, but Collins is on hand to clear his shot off the line.
Straight up the other end and Gomes saves well from Di Michele before
pouncing on the loose ball.
87 min - Teenager Federico Macheda has scored again for Manchester United to
put them in front at Sunderland. Can Freddie Sears emulate the Italian?
85 min - Collins goes on a strange run through the centre of midfield before
being stopped in his tracks by a combination of Huddlestone and Zokora. Five
minutes to go. Can West Ham find an equaliser? Di Michele slips the ball
through, but Gomes is out smartly to smother.
84 min - Sears is ready to enter the fray. Steve Clarke hands the requisite
form to the fourth official. Who is going to make way? It is Diego Tristan.
82 min - Unbelievable comeback in the offing at Chelsea where Bolton have
fought back to 4-3 from 4-0 down! Arsenal are now 2-1 up at Wigan.
Meanwhile, Spurs have a free-kick in a promising position 25 yards from
goal. Huddlestone is lining it up. The ball hits the wall and flies behind
for a corner.
81 min - Tomkins is replaced by Savio. That is purely tactical. Neill goes
to right-back and Savio up as part of a three-man forward line alongside
Tristan and Di Michele. Sears is sent out to warm-up by manager Zola.
80 min - Spurs go back on the attack and Lennon forces Green into a
scrambling save.
79 min - Dyer bursts forward and finds Neill on the right, but his attempted
cross is blocked by Lennon.
78 min - Lennon crosses and Pavlyuchenko can only glance the ball across the
face of goal. Savio is going to come on for the last ten minutes.
76 min - Dyer gets a sight of goal from Stanislas' pass, but the substitute
delays too long and can only drag a weak effort wide of the post. Shame.
There is still life in West Ham, though, and while the score remains at 1-0,
there is a chance.
74 min - Neill does well to deny Lennon a shooting chance, clearing the ball
behind as the winger attempted to latch on to Pavlyuchenko's pass. Modric
lofts the corner into the penalty area, but Woodgate can only glance his
header wide of the target.
72 min - More goals. Drogba has put Chelsea 4-0 up, Theo Walcott has
equalised for Arsenal at Wigan and Portsmouth are level at 2-2 with West
Brom. Dyer is playing on the right-wing.
71 min - Boa Morte is the man to make way for Dyer. He receives a pat on the
head from Zola on his way to the bench.
70 min - 20 minutes to go and Zola is going to make his first change. Dyer
is going to come on. The manager has a chat with the England man.
68 min - Spurs' goal has given them a real boost. Zokora, who has never
scored for the club, strides forward and lets fly from 25 yards, but the
ball goes wide.
67 min - Goals all over the place in the Premier League. Chelsea are 3-0 up
against Bolton while West Brom have come from behind to lead 2-1 at
Portsmouth. Spurs come close to a second. Assou-Ekotto finds Modric, but the
midfielder's shot is blocked by Pavlyuchenko.
65 min - GOAL! Modric feeds Pavlyuchenko inside the penalty area and the
Russian holds off Collins before clipping the ball into Green's far corner.
West Ham have it all to do now.
64 min - If West Ham avoid defeat today, they would extend their Premier
League unbeaten run to six matches. Green does his bit to aid that by
parrying Huddlestone's long-range effort.
62 min - Sunderland have drawn level against Manchester United through
Kenwyne Jones. Back here in north London, Di Michele is booked for bringing
down Lennon.
61 min - Good play by Huddlestone hands Keane a shooting chance but Tomkins
is there to block. The England Under-20 man keeps his balance to block
Assou-Ekotto's follow-up effort. The 20-year-old has not looked out of place
at right-back today. Now it's time for Dyer, Payne and Sears to have a run
on the sidelines.
60 min - N'Gala, Savio and Walter Lopez are all warming up on the touchline
as we pass the hour-mark.
57 min - Neill is in the book too now after catching Modric in the chest
with a flailing arm. Huddlestone curls the free-kick into the box where
Woodgate flicks on for Pavlyuchenko, but the ball lands in Green's arms.
Seconds later, Woodgate's slip lets in Di Michele, but the on-loan Torino
man can only shoot straight against Gomes' legs. That was a fantastic
chance...
56 min - Zokora is booked for a nasty lunge on Neill. Not a good tackle,
that. Pavlyuchenko is on for Bent.
55 min - Spurs are going to bring on Roman Pavlyuchenko. No sign of any West
Ham substitutes warming-up just yet.
53 min - Superb by Noble, who has been good today. He runs at the home
defence and plays a neat one-two with Stanislas before the ball is cleared
by King. Better from West Ham. 2-0 to Chelsea. Didier Drogba.
52 min - Another corner for Spurs. Lennon takes this time, King heads the
ball straight up into the air and Green claims.
51 min - Zokora and Modric combine before the Croat's attempted through ball
to Bent is deflected behind by Collins. Modric's corner is hacked clear.
50 min - Tristan slaloms past three challenges. Boa Morte finds Tomkins wide
on the right, but his cross is too high and is claimed by Gomes.
49 min - Spurs are cranking up the pressure again.
47 min - There are 35,969 fans here today. They're not exactly being treated
to a classic so far, but there is still time...
46 min - Spurs get us underway again. There have been a Premier League-low
25 goals in 15 games at White Hart Lane this season. Let's hope that record
is not extended this afternoon.
In all the excitement, I forgot to mention that Middlesbrough had re-taken
the lead against Hull. Matthew Bates, I apologise! Both sets of substitutes
are out on the pitch during the interval.
Here come the two teams for the second half...
Spurs are making a change. Ivory Coast World Cup midfielder Didier Zokora is
on for Jermaine Jenas.
HALF-TIME - Tottenham Hotspur 0-0 West Ham United
46 min - That was the kiss of death for Boa Morte as he is booked for a foul
on Modric. It's in a dangerous position too, 25 yards out on the left wing.
The Croatian takes the free-kick and Ilunga hacks it clear.
45 min - Boa Morte has done well so far but Noble has been West Ham's star
performer so far. There are going to be two added minutes. Chelsea have gone
a goal up against Bolton at Stamford Bridge.
43 min - Portsmouth have done their survival hopes the power of good by
going a goal up against West Bromwich Albion. Coventry are now 4-0 down at
Plymouth.
42 min - West Ham keep the ball for well over a minute. They appear to have
weathered the storm and are looking much more confident in possession.
Unfortunately, a promising attack ends with Ilunga poking the ball out of
play following a misunderstanding with Di Michele.
40 min - Corluka clips the ball forwards to Huddlestone and the giant
England Under-21 man controls on his thigh before firing a rising volley a
few yards wide of the target.
39 min - A nice piece of interplay from West Ham leads to Tomkins curling a
cross into the penalty area, but Gomes is out quickly to catch the ball in
front of the on-rushing Stanislas.
37 min - Keane gives the ball away inside the West Ham box and the visitors
break at lightning pace. Noble finds Di Michele, but his shot is deflected
behind by Woodgate. Noble takes the resulting corner, but Tomkins can only
glance his header well wide of the target.
35 min - Jenas flattens Di Michele with a challenge. Neill floats the ball
into the box and it falls to Di Michele, who lashes a volley goalwards.
Gomes makes a slight hash of saving it, then Assou-Ekotto slips over as he
tries to clear the ball. Eventually, the French full-back hits it against
the Italian forward and the fun ends with a Spurs goal kick.
34 min - Not a good day to be a Coventry City fan. Tottenham's 1987 FA Cup
final vanquishers are 3-0 down at Plymouth Argyle already.
33 min - Tottenham have enjoyed 64 per cent of the possession so far, which
is no surprise. Their latest attack nearly sees the deadlock broken, but
Bent can only head Assou-Ekotto's cross wide of the far post from eight
yards.
31 min - We're past the half-hour mark and West Ham are holding firm.
Huddlestone stings Green's palms with a skidding 25-yarder, but the ball
appeared to be going wide. Seconds later, Green is called into action again
to scoop aside Keane's bouncing volley. The England man completes a fine
passage of play by claiming Modric's corner.
28 min - Boa Morte needs treatment after a nasty-looking clash with Gomes.
The Portuguese continued playing for a minute or so after the coming
together before falling to his knees inside the West Ham half. Physio George
Cooper is on to treat the winger. Gomes also receives some running repairs.
After a minute or so, Boa Morte is back on his feet.
26 min - Corluka goes down under a challenge from Di Michele inside the
penalty area but again Atkinson waves away the hosts' appeals for a
spot-kick.
25 min - Following Liverpool's 4-0 win over Blackburn in the lunchtime
kick-off, Manchester United were knocked off the top of the table. Not for
long, maybe, as Paul Scholes has put the Red Devils a goal up at Sunderland.
Bad news for the Hammers elsewhere as former Spurs striker Mido has put
Wigan Athletic a goal up against Arsenal.
24 min - Superb football from Bent, Modric and Corluka releases Keane, but
his shot is wayward. West Ham are not exactly holding on, but they could do
with seeing a bit more of the ball to relieve the pressure on Green's goal.
22 min - West Ham's fans shout 'Handball' every time someone touches the
ball, much to the amusement of everyone inside White Hart Lane. Collins
heads the ball out for a corner, which is easily cleared.
21 min - Another good piece of build-up play ends with Lennon forcing a
corner off Stanislas. Lennon crosses and Keane volleys the ball into the
ground. It bounces up and hits Tomkins on the arm, but referee Atkinson
waves away Keane's penalty claims. That certainly wasn't deliberate.
19 min - Modric jinks past Tomkins but his cross is headed clear by Herita
Ilunga from inside his own six-yard box. Spurs are keeping the ball much
better than the visitors, but they are not creating much. West Ham look
quite comfortable defensively. but they are not keeping possession as well
as Zola would like.
18 min - Zola is in animated discussion with Steve Clarke. I wonder what
plans the pair are putting together to stifle Spurs?
17 min - Modric takes the corner and James Collins heads the ball powerfully
clear. It drops to Huddlestone, who controls on his chest but can only screw
a left-foot volley well wide.
16 min - Keane is dropping deep regularly to pick up possession. He is a
real livewire. Huddlestone wins the first corner of the game off Tomkins.
13 min - Noble is starting to control the game in central midfield. He is
finding space and using the ball well. One pass picks out Boa Morte's run,
but Jonathan Woodgate snuffs out the danger. Boa Morte and Stanislas are
switching wings regularly. That will keep Spurs' full-backs on their toes.
10 min - Di Michele lashes Stanislas' deep cross back across the face of
goal and out for a throw-in. No goals here but two already at the Riverside
Stadium, where Middlesbrough and Hull City are drawing 1-1.
9 min - Modric tricks his way past Tomkins before being baulked by Luis Boa
Morte. Spurs have a free-kick in a dangerous position 35 yards from goal
near the left touchline. Modric takes but Green rises highest to claim the
ball confidently.
8 min - The greasy surface is really helping both sets of players fizz the
ball around. For all the pretty football, though, neither team has created a
clear-cut chance as yet.
6 min - You get the feeling this is going to be a really attractive game to
watch. Both teams are clearly eager to get the ball down and play. Bent
nearly profits from a spate of penalty area pinball but the alert Green
hacks the ball clear.
5 min - The atmosphere is crackling here, as you would expect. Lucas Neill
and Noble combine nicely in midfield but the move comes to nothing.
3 min - Spurs are knocking the ball around confidently. West Ham have hardly
had a touch so far. Corluka feeds Aaron Lennon, but the England winger's
shot is wild and woeful.
1 min - Spurs are first to show. Modric tries to play in Darren Bent, but
the ball skips out for a goal kick.
3pm - Spurs' players go into a huddle. West Ham will kick-off attacking the
Paxton Road end.
2.59pm - Zola shakes hands with opposite number and former Hammers manager
Harry Redknapp. Both are smiling broadly, but who will be the happier of the
two come 5pm?
2.58pm - The two sets of players shake hands. Do not be mistaken, though,
this is going to be a keenly-contested London derby.
2.56pm - West Ham's substitutes have taken their places on the away bench -
or should that be seats. These dugouts aren't what they used to be. No
chance of banging your head on a seat that looks like it's been taken out of
a rally car! Here come the teams...
2.54pm - The stands are filling up as kick-off fast approaches. West Ham are
seeking their first victory here since Marc Keller netted the winner in a
2-1 victory in April 1999. Since then, Spurs are unbeaten in eight matches
at home to the Hammers, seven in the Premier League and one in the League
Cup.
2.52pm - The travelling fans, all 3,000 of them, are in fine voice as
always. A stirring rendition of 'Bubbles' rings around White Hart Lane.
2.50pm - England Under-21 coach Stuart Pearce is here. The former Hammers
defender will no doubt be running the rule over Stanislas, Noble and the
promising James Tomkins, who has been in superb form in recent weeks.
2.48pm - West Ham's players are heading for the away dressing room. Junior
Stanislas, who will be hoping to build on his goalscoring full debut againt
Sunderland a week ago, is the first down the tunnel, followed closely by
David Di Michele and Upson. Kovac gives Mark Noble a supportive pat on the
head as he trots off the pitch.
2.45pm - A pair of West Ham defenders are reaching significant milestones
this afternoon. James Collins is making his 50th Premier League appearance,
all for the Hammers. Matthew Upson is making his 200th Premier League
appearance, having played for Arsenal, Birmingham City and West Ham in the
top-flight.
2.40pm - West Ham's management team are watching the pre-match preparations
from the touchline. Gianfranco Zola is in discussion with Gianluca Nani,
while the injured Radoslav Kovac, who has a thigh problem, is also there,
2.35pm - One of West Ham's substitutes today is Bondz N'Gala. Should the
teenage defender get on to the pitch, he would become the ninth Academy
graduate to appear for the Hammers this term. N'Gala has been captaining the
reserve team in recent weeks and has grown in stature under the tutelage of
Steve Clarke and Alex Dyer.
2.30pm - West Ham United's players have just gone through a series of
stretches on the pitch at White Hart Lane. They have now broken into a game
of five-a-side. It's threatening to rain here in north London, but for now
it is still dry.
West Ham United manager Gianfranco Zola made one enforced change to the team
that beat Sunderland 2-0 a week ago. Jonathan Spector was ruled out with
concussion, with James Collins returning at the heart of the defence. James
Tomkins switched to right-back, with Lucas Neill continuing in a defensive
midfield role.
Tottenham were without the suspended Wilson Palacios, who was sent-off at
Blackburn Rovers a week ago, with Tom Huddlestone deputising.
Tottenham Hotspur: Gomes, Corluka, Woodgate, King, Assou-Ekotto, Lennon,
Huddlestone, Jenas (Zokora 46), Modric, Bent (Pavlyuchenko 56), Keane
Subs not used: Cudicini, Bale, Bentley, Dawson, Chimbonda.
West Ham United: Green, Collins, Tomkins (Nsereko 81), Upson, Ilunga,
Stanislas, Neill, Noble, Boa Morte (Dyer 71), Tristan (Sears 85), Di Michele
Subs not used: Lastuvka, Lopez, Payne, N'Gala.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Tottenham 1-0 West Ham
By Julian Shea
BBC.co.uk
Substitute Roman Pavlyuchenko scored the winner as Tottenham overcame West
Ham at White Hart Lane. Darren Bent's close-range off-target header was the
closest either side came in a fairly tepid first half. But Pavlyuchenko
replaced Bent early in the second half and had an instant impact when he
turned his marker James Collins to fire into the bottom corner. Robbie Keane
went close to a second for Spurs at the death but Collins cleared his
goalbound shot off the line. For two sides with such a hotly-contested
rivalry, the first half-hour of the game was remarkably tame, with Tottenham
having the upper hand but failing to capitalise on their territorial
advantage. They had a penalty appeal turned down after Keane's volley
bounced up and hit James Tomkins but there was no serious threat on either
goal until around the half-hour mark when the West Ham defence allowed
Huddlestone to advance unchallenged towards the box and try his luck with a
low shot. It was pushed away by Robert Green, who was also stretched by
Keane before Bent was presented with the best chance of the game so far from
a Luka Modric cross, but his header lacked both power and direction.
In the closing moments of the half David di Michele had two decent chances
for West Ham, one blocked by Gomes and the other put behind for a corner by
Jonathan Woodgate's knee, but these were rare threats to the home side.
Woodgate presented di Michele with probably the best chance of the game so
far around the hour mark, as the defender lost his footing back-pedalling as
he tried to cut out Green's route-one goalkick. The ball fell to the
Italian who only had the keeper to beat, but he did not seem to realise how
much time he had and snatched at his shot. Having failed to impose himself
on the game, Bent was replaced by Pavlyuchenko, and the introduction of the
Russian reaped an immediate rewards. Vedran Corluka played the ball to
Modric in the box and he found Pavlyuchenko with his back to goal - but the
Russian did superbly to turn his marker and fire the ball low into the far
corner of the net.
Aaron Lennon came within inches of doubling the lead with a looping
long-range effort from outside the box which Green did well to push over his
bar. The England winger had another good chance towards the end, when he
burst into the box, only for Green to come out and challenge him. The ball
rebounded to Keane, whose shot was heading straight for the back of the net
until Collins redeemed himself for the first goal with a goal-line
clearance. Di Michele then had a great opportunity to snatch a late
equaliser but dithered in the box, allowing several defenders to get back
and snuff out the attack.
Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp: "We're safe now - before today I thought
we needed one more win but we can start looking up not down now. "You know
it'll never be easy in a derby, they looked to attack us on the counter so I
said we had to be patient and work ball in to feet, not hit crosses - that's
their strength. "It'd be lovely if we could make Europe now for the players
and the club, so that's what we'd look to do, we'll give it our best shot."
West Ham manager Gianfranco Zola: "We came here to try and win, and to be
honest we were very close - until their goal the game was very square, we
each had couple of chances. "It's a pity but it doesn't take anything away
from our performance, it was very good - as long as team performs the way it
performed today, I'm pleased. "Everytime we had the opportunity to cause
them problems we did. I don't think my team was too much behind them."
Tottenham: Gomes, Corluka, Woodgate, King, Assou-Ekotto, Lennon,
Huddlestone, Jenas (Zokora 46), Modric, Bent (Pavlyuchenko 56), Keane. Subs
Not Used: Cudicini, Bale, Bentley, Dawson, Chimbonda.
Booked: Zokora.
Goals: Pavlyuchenko 65.
West Ham: Green, Collins, Tomkins (Nsereko 81), Upson, Ilunga, Stanislas,
Neill, Noble, Boa Morte (Dyer 71), Tristan (Sears 85), Di Michele. Subs Not
Used: Lastuvka, Lopez, Payne, N'Gala.
Booked: Boa Morte, Neill, Di Michele, Collins, Noble.
Att: 35,969
Ref: Martin Atkinson (W Yorkshire).
BBC Sport Player Rater man of the match: Tottenham's Roman Pavlyuchenko on
8.28 (on 90 minutes).
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Former Spurs star Neighbour dies
BBC.co.uk
Former Tottenham, Norwich and West Ham striker Jimmy Neighbour has died
suddenly at the age of 58. Neighbour, who played in Spurs' 1971 League
Cup-winning side, suffered a heart attack at home while recovering from a
hip replacement operation. Neighbour was on Tottenham's books from 1966 to
1976 and returned to the club in 2000 as coach of the under-17 side. He also
represented Seattle Sounders and played the last of his 304 Football League
games on loan at Bournemouth. He made his debut for Spurs against Stoke in
October 1970 and playing his final game for the Cherries against Wrexham in
1983. Before rejoining Tottenham he spent four years as a coach at Enfield,
helping them win the FA Trophy in 1988. He was also youth development
officer at West Ham, assistant manager at Doncaster and boss at St Albans.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Jimmy Neighbour
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 12th April 2009
By: Staff Writer
Former Hammer Jimmy Neighbour has passed away at the age of just 58.
Neighbour - who starred for West Ham between 1979 and 1982, and was part of
the successful promotion winning side of 1980/81 - died suddenly on Saturday
after suffering a heart attack at his Woodford Green home, where he was
recovering from a recent hip operation.
The right winger, born in Chingford in 1950 began his professional career at
Tottenham for whom he made over 150 appearances. Having fallen out of favour
at White Hart Lane following the departure of Bill Nicholson he left for
Norwich, from whom John Lyall signed Neighbour for £150,000 in September
1979 (following a brief spell in the USA with Seattle Sounders).
After 73 appearances for Lyall's side - including appearances in both the
1981 League Cup Final and replay against Liverpool - Neighbour spent the
final few months of his career on loan at Bournemouth. Having hung up his
boots he returned to West Ham in 1989 as the club's Youth Development
Officer following a brief yet successful stint as manager of non-league
Enfield.
A League Cup winner with Spurs in 1971, Neighbour left the Hammers to return
to management - firstly in an assistant role at Doncaster before moving on
to St Albans City. After moving back to his roots he managed a sports shop
in Chingford before ending his career where it began, as a youth coach at
Tottenham between 2000-2005.
Jimmy Neighbour 1950-2009
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Zola hits back at Harry snub
Hammers boss tells trio to ignore Redknapp comments
By Elliot Ball Last updated: 13th April 2009
SSN
Gianfranco Zola has told his West Ham youngsters they can reach the same
heights as Rio Ferdinand and Frank Lampard, contrary to Harry Redknapp's
recent comments.
Redknapp was at the Upton Park helm when the likes of Ferdinand, Lampard,
Joe Cole and Michael Carrick came through the ranks. The current Tottenham
boss claimed last week that the current crop of Hammers talent is nowhere
near the same calibre as the former stars. But Zola has hit back at
Redknapp's snub and has told the likes of Mark Noble, Freddie Sears and
James Tomkins they can emulate the exploits of their predecessors if they
combine hard work with their footballing ability. "I believe when Rio or
Lamps or Joe Cole were coming through they were just promising. Then they
improved," the Italian said. "What I said about my players is that it is
just down to them. If they work hard every day and keep the right attitude
they can do that. "Maybe Harry has more experience than me and can see
forward more than me. But I believe everyone owns their own destiny. "When I
started playing football there were a few that said I wouldn't become the
player I was but they didn't know what my attitude and mentality was. "I
believe that if my players have the attitude they can become important
players. "If they push themselves hard and believe in what they do they will
go beyond the limits that people are putting on them now."
Zola, however, has played down his impact on the young trio this season and
feels managers cannot take all the credit for youngsters coming through. "I
would like to say that if they achieve something it is down to me but it is
not like that," he said. "I can only show them, then they have to move on
and it is totally down to them. "I don't know what Harry meant when he said
that. As far as I'm concerned I will always be there showing them the line
but the work is down to them."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Zola optimistic of Neill deal
Hammers boss confident defender will agree extension
By James Dall Last updated: 12th April 2009
SSN
West Ham United manager Gianfranco Zola remains confident that the club will
reach an agreement with Lucas Neill over a new contract. The Australian
defender's current deal is due to expire at the end of the season and talks
are underway over an extension. Zola rates Neill highly and is optimistic
that his captain will commit to the club he joined from Blackburn Rovers in
2007. "I know the club are dealing with that and Lucas knows my opinion
about that so now it is down to Lucas and the club to find a solution and I
believe they are working with that," said Zola. The Italian coach also hopes
to have midfielder Scott Parker back from a groin complaint for next week's
clash against Aston Villa. "I hope so," Zola said. "Parker is an important
player for us and he is getting better and better, but we want to make sure
he is 100 per cent fit."
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Bowyer puts future on hold
Midfielder keen to help Birmingham secure promotion
Last updated: 12th April 2009
SSN
On-loan Birmingham City midfielder Lee Bowyer says he will wait until the
end of the season before deciding his future. Bowyer joined Blues from West
Ham United in January and is looking to help the club earn promotion back to
the Premier League. The 32-year-old is out of contract at West Ham in the
summer and has been tipped to sign a permanent deal at St Andrews. However,
the former Leeds United man wants to focus on Birmingham's promotion push,
rather than worrying about his own situation. "I'll have to weigh up my
options and go from there, but at the moment I'm not even looking that far
forward," Bowyer told the club's official website. "I'm looking to do what I
came here for and that's to help Birmingham get into the Premier League. "I
am enjoying it here and I still feel as though I've got a lot to give. I'm
still getting box-to-box and I've played regularly so fitness wise I'm
fine."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Zola praises beaten Hammers
Zola insists his side were more than a match for Spurs
By Ashley Marshall Last updated: 11th April 2009
SSN
Gianfranco Zola says he is proud of his team after their five-match unbeaten
run came to an end at White Hart Lane on Saturday. The West Ham boss says he
has no complaints with how his team played and he says his side had chances
to take the lead before Spurs substitute Roman Pavlyuchenko scored the only
goal of the game after 65 minutes. Zola said: "You are never happy when you
lose a game - I am disappointed with the result but pleased with the
performance. "The players gave everything and to be honest they played on
the same level as Tottenham. "I am very, very proud of them and pleased for
them." The Hammers manager never lost against Tottenham as a player and he
says that while his team did not make the most of their opportunities, they
were just as good as their hosts. "I believe that [West Ham] did not deserve
to get beaten but this is football. We will get on with this and we will try
to make it better next week. "I believe that if we had scored the game would
have been ours. We didn't do it and they scored and they won but that
doesn't take anything away from the performance. "I am very pleased despite
the result."
Zola has been forced to make several changes in recent weeks because of
injuries, but he said his team has stuck together and played well as a unit.
"The organisation of the team right now is very good and you can see that
whoever plays is doing a fantastic job for the team," Zola added. "For a
manager that is the best you can get." The defeat keeps West Ham seven
points adrift of Everton and eight behind Aston Villa, having played a game
more than both clubs. But despite a relatively successful campaign so far,
Zola says there will be no complacency in the last few games of the season
as they push for a European place. "We have to fight very hard until the end
and we believe and we have confidence in what we are doing. "For me it is
important for this team to get a reward for what it has done throughout the
year."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Spurs edge London derby
Pavlyuchenko comes off the bench to lift Spurs up to eighth
By Ashley Marshall Last updated: 11th April 2009
SSN
Substitute Roman Pavlyuchenko gave Tottenham all three points against London
rivals West Ham with a 65th-minute winner at White Hart Lane. Pavlyuchenko
took one touch to control Luka Modric's pass, a second to turn past James
Collins and a clinical third to fire right-footed past the outstretched
Robert Green. Robbie Keane also saw a second-half shot cleared off the line
by Collins after Green had spread himself well at the feet of Aaron Lennon,
and David Di Michele squandered West Ham's best pair of chances as they
pressed for an equaliser. Di Michele's best chance came directly from a goal
kick which Jonathan Woodgate failed to clear. Di Michele turned the
centre-back well, but he rushed his shot and failed to get enough power
behind it to trouble Heurelho Gomes. Tottenham's win ends West Ham's
five-game unbeaten streak and moves them up to eighth place, just three
points behind Gianfranco Zola's men. With Everton playing on Sunday, West
Ham missed the chance to cut the gap on the sixth-place team to four points.
Tottenham however kept their hopes of European football alive thanks to
Pavlyuchenko's winner, which came just nine minutes after coming off the
bench. His 14th goal of the season means the race for seventh place in the
Premier League is hotting up. Such is the tightness of this season, Spurs
have been fighting against relegation since Harry Redknapp's arrival in
October but now could qualify for the Europa League. "The reality is we are
not out of trouble yet," Redknapp wrote in his programme notes - but they
are surely safe now. Redknapp spent seven years at West Ham and nurtured the
likes of Rio Ferdinand and Joe Cole but away fans still taunted their former
manager, a bitterness that has also been fuelled by the Spurs manager
remaining unbeaten against his old employers since leaving them. It added
spice to a London derby that already had plenty of controversial recent
history. Spurs had not been beaten by the Hammers since a mystery virus hit
their squad three years ago and denied them a place in the Champions League.
Both clubs are now chasing a place in next season's revamped Uefa Cup,
although there was little in the way of first-half action that would have
graced even Europe's second-tier competition. The main talking point of the
first half was a trio of penalty shouts from the hosts being turned down.
They felt they should have had a spot-kick 20 minutes into the contest when
Keane's shot flicked up and struck James Tomkins' arm. Referee Martin
Atkinson waved play on and did so again two minutes later when Keane went
over in the penalty area under a challenge from Luis Boa Morte. The third
appeal was turned down when Di Michele challenged Vedran Corluka for the
ball, with Atkinson deciding the tackle was shoulder-to-shoulder rather than
a foul.
Hammers goalkeeper Green was called into action twice in a minute just after
the half-hour mark. Tom Huddlestone, making his first league start since
Boxing Day as Wilson Palacios was suspended, drove towards the box and
unleashed a drive from outside the penalty area that required a save. When
the ball broke for Keane, England keeper Green used his shoulder to save as
the shot from the Spurs skipper was scuffed and moving unpredictably. Darren
Bent then headed wide with the next chance for the hosts, just before Di
Michele had one effort saved by Gomes at the near post and another blocked
by Woodgate's knee. A foot problem for Jermaine Jenas flared up and he was
replaced by Didier Zokora at half-time, who added bite in the midfield and
picked up a yellow card for fouling Lucas Neill. Neill then got a booking
himself for clipping Modric. The Hammers enjoyed a spell of pressure and
Redknapp's response was to introduce Russian striker Pavlyuchenko, who
replaced Bent in attack. Pavlyuchenko immediately got his head on
Huddlestone's free-kick but Green positioned himself perfectly. Green then
launched the ball up field and found Di Michele, who raced through behind
Woodgate and saw his finish saved by Gomes. Di Michele was in the thick of
the acion and got himself booked for a foul on Lennon when the winger, with
England assistant Stuart Pearce in the crowd watching, ran at the visitors
at full throttle. Pearce will also report back to Fabio Capello on Green,
who beat away Huddlestone's fearsome drive. There was nothing Green could
have done about the 65th-minute winner. Modric received the ball with his
back to goal but smuggled it through Neill and Matthew Upson to
Pavlyuchenko. The Spurs substitute had to hold off Collins before getting a
shot away that went past Green and in at the far post. Kieron Dyer came on
for the visitors and went wide with their best late effort, while Green
tipped over a curling effort from Lennon and Keane had an effort cleared off
the line by Collins.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Vinny's Tottenham Report
Vinny - Sun Apr 12 2009
West Ham Online
Tottenham Hotspur 1 West Ham United 0
West Ham were beaten by a second half strike from Spurs striker Roman
Pavlyuchenko as the race for seventh place takes another turn.
We had big problems with keeping possession and the constant poor passing
allowed Spurs to come back at us giving them confidence which paid off in
the end. Going forward we lacked composure with our finishing and our final
ball.
There were times when we were on the counter attack where we looked
excellent and on the whole we defended well, but the margins in this league
are very fine and that goal in the second half saw us succumb to our first
defeat in five.
The West Ham fans were out in numbers and were a credit to the club once
again. Tottenham fans were surprisingly quiet throughout the game even when
their side took the lead. There was good banter between the two sets of
supporters in this London derby.
Gianfranco Zola only made one change from the side which beat Sunderland at
Upton Park last week. The change was an enforced one with Jonathan Spector
missing out due to the injury he picked up in the Sunderland game. In his
place was James Collins who went to centre half alongside Upson with James
Tomkins going to right back.
All the talk of Parker and Kovac returning did not come to light as Lucas
Neill continued his defensive midfield role alongside Mark Noble.
I Cannot deny, I hate going to Tottenham. Maybe it is because of my dislike
for them coupled with our horrible record at White Hart Lane. Not since 1999
when goals from Ian Wright and Marc Keller gave us a 2-1 win have we saw a
West Ham side beat Tottenham on their own patch.
Spurs started confidently and knocked the ball around well looking to play
the ball in behind our full backs and get the pace and skill of Lennon and
Modric into the game.
The first half did not seem much in the way of goal scoring opportunities.
We settled down and attempted to play the quick one touch passing but far
too often the front two would lose the ball or take to long in playing the
simply pass which would ultimately end the move.
Spurs slightly had the upper hand when it came to territorial posession but
still there were few chances. A half chance fell to Darren Bent after a high
looping cross found his head but the ball went just wide although Robert
Green seemed to think it may drop in.
Spurs thought they should have had penalty when a volley from Robbie Keane
was charge down by James Tomkins. The home side were convinced that it had
struck the hand of Collins and White Hart Lane erupted with "Handball!". The
West Ham fans enjoyed an extended piss take for the next few minutes.
A few minutes later Spurs appealed for another penalty when Keane went over
after a challenge from Boa Morte. The appeal was correctly turned down.
Boa Morte was having an excellent game and was getting involved at every
opportunity. Yes, he was sometimes a little over the top with his challenges
but his commitment was there for every West Ham to see.
Another half chance fell Tottenham's way when the ball broke for Robbie
Keane whose shot bounced just in front of Robert Green who had to knock it
away for a corner.
At the other end we really had no opportunities to note. There were a few
counter attacking moves but the crosses from Boa Morte and Stanislas were
often poor. Di Michele saw a couple of wild efforts go well wide.
It wasn't an awful first half performance and we were still in the game, but
whether we could step up a gear was doubtful.
You couldn't help think what this game would have been like with Parker,
Cole, Collison and Behrami.
The second half was similar to the first but Spurs gave it more of a go and
probably deserved their goal and the win. They looked more of a threat going
forward and although our defence was doing well to combat the threat, gaps
were starting to appear as our players were beginning to tire.
Out of absolutely nothing we found ourselves with the best chance of the
game and one which I still even now cannot believe we did not take. I keep
replaying it in my mind and still cannot fathom how David Di Michele did not
put us in front.
A long ball down the centre was made a hash of by Jonathan Woodgate and his
header gave David Di Michele a chance from just a few yards out but his shot
was poor and saved by Gomes. The frustration amongst the West Ham fans was
clear as we all seemed to curse Di Michele at the same time.
This chance seemed to have an adverse effect on our fortunes as Tottenham
burst forward and a powerful shot from Huddlestone was beaten away by Robert
Green.
Spurs took off the ineffective Darren Bent and replaced him with Roman
Pavlyuchenko and it would be the Russian who would get the winning goal for
Spurs.
The goal seemed to come out of nothing and looking at it again it was a
disappointing goal to concede (as is any goal I suppose). The excellent
Modric played the ball into the feet of Pavlyuchenko who held off Collins
and turned to shoot past Green. It was very similar to the goal from Mido
Spurs scored a couple of seasons ago in the same fixture.
Dyer replaced Boa Morte around five minutes later as we tried to get forward
to find an equaliser but unfortunately the only side who looked like scoring
was Tottenham.
Aaron Lennon saw a looping effort (it may have been an attempted cross) just
tipped over by Green and although Di Michele got himself into a good
position he dithered on the ball so much he lost the chance he had created
for himself.
Zola took Tomkins off and replaced him with Savio who went to the left, with
Dyer in the middle and Stanislas on the right as we tried to give it a go
but we could not muster that final great chance and it was Spurs who should
have doubled their lead when a Robbie Keane effort was cleared off the line
by James Collins.
Four minutes of injury time were awarded but nothing came of it and although
we had given it a go, our problems up front were there for all to see.
The passing which is normally so fluent was lacking and we lost possession
far to many times and often there was no need. The ball would not stick when
it went to the forwards and they were so slow on the ball they often
overlooked the movement from the wingers Stanislas and Boa Morte.
The reality of this game is that Spurs had their first choice side out there
and we are missing not just a couple of key players but four of them - three
of those in midfield. Defensively there were positives to take from the game
as I felt we dealt with the wide men well.
Spurs just had too much for us and although it is always gutting losing to
Spurs, in the scheme of things this was the best we could do with what we
had out there and what we were up against.
Player Reviews
Robert Green
A solid performance from Green and he made a number of decent saves. Once
again I thought his claiming form corners and crosses was excellent and he
seemed to always be there to mop up.
James Tomkins
In an unfamiliar right back position but he did well enough. Stood up
against Modric well but too often came into a central position which led to
gaps appearing down that flank especially in the first half.
James Collins
Was too tight to Pavlyuchenko for the goal and it is that type of defending
which can sometimes let Collins down because when it comes to the gritty
stuff he is excellent. He was good in the air and made a number of vital
blocks and interceptions.
Matthew Upson
Not much to report on Upson in this one. He put in a good showing and you
didn't see him make many mistakes. Looked quite comfortable up against
Darren Bent.
Herita Ilunga
Before the game I thought the battle between him and Lennon would be one of
more interesting. In the first half especially I thought Ilunga won that
battle and he kept his eye on Lennon and matched him throughout.
Luis Boa Morte
Started on the right wing but continued to swap with Stanislas throughout
his time on the pitch. His effort in the first half was magnificent and
although he found himself in the book his commitment cannot be questioned.
Mark Noble
Noble may be criticised for some of the misplaced passes but I thought he
was excellent and our best player going forward. The way he would find room
and drive forward was the starting point for any counter attack we mustered.
Lucas Neill
Faded in and out of the game as he struggled in the midfield role. Did his
best to break up play and never stopped running but will be good to see him
back in his normal position.
Junior Stanislas
Another positive performance from the youngster who never stopped going. The
main problem was when he had the ball on the left wing and he failed to use
his pace to go directly down the line. I think he would have had the beating
of their right back, but like most of our play we kept trying the difficult
pass through the middle. Overall though, Stanislas was bright and looks a
good player.
David Di Michele
We didn't manage to get him into the game enough in the first half which was
to our detriment as he always seems to be the one who plays that pass which
gets our key attacks going. In the second half he did see more of the ball
but then this was to our detriment as he wasted everything. His passing was
awful and he dallied on the ball far too often. The chance he missed
(dispite Woodgate attempting to grab his leg) should have been converted.
Diego Tristan
Easy to forget he was playing. Just far to slow on the ball and although
there is no doubt there is some talent in there, he looks so unfit he just
cannot execute what he wants to do. Never won a single header and held the
ball up rarely.
Subs Used
Kieron Dyer (on for Boa Morte 71 mins)
Started on the left but then moved into the middle with Noble. Looked lively
again. The question remains to when he is ever going to start.
Savio Nsereko (on for Tomkins 81 mins)
Went to the left hand side but failed to get into the game. Surely it is
time for him to get a game with the ineptness of Di Michele and Tristan?
Freddie Sears (on for Tristan 85 mins)
Unfortunately he came onto the field of play on roller skates. The White
Hart Lane pitch had an inprint of his backside as that is where he spent the
majority of his time.
Subs Not Used: Lastuvka, Lopez, Payne, N'Gala.
Overall
As I have mentioned, because it is Tottenham it always feels ten times
worse. In the scheme of things this was not a great performance but
understandable under the circumstances. It was disappointing that neither
Parker or Kovac were back from injury as they may have made a difference as
in the second half we completely lost the midfield.
This is not the end of our season and if back in August you were offered 7th
place with six games to go we would have all taken it.
We need three more wins to secure 7th spot and the European place. This will
be very difficult to attain but not impossible and we still have a lot to
play for in our season so don't lose the faith just yet.
Next up is Aston Villa away at Villa Park. This is going to be yet another
hard game and although they have been in some poor form recently they are
still a very good team.
Franco's Feelings
"Last week we played against a team that was in a different situation. Today
was a different matter against a very good team in a derby. Junior Stanislas
didn't look like he was a rookie and the same goes for James Tomkins. So I'm
pleased as they are progressing and progressing very well. I know that I can
rely on them whenever I need."
"When Di Michele went through I thought this was the moment. But he is very
unlucky right now. He is playing very well for the team and is probably one
of the most important members of the team, but is not very lucky in front of
the goal. Considering all the circumstances, the only thing I can say is
words to praise the team."
"I knew that the first 15 minutes of the second half would be the crucial
moment. That's what we tried to do,"
"We thought if we keep our composure and frustrate them then we have a good
chance. We had a good chance and missed and then they had a chance and
scored.
"[Roman] Pavlyuchenko scored a good goal and that was the difference about
it because the team played very well. Tottenham, in my opinion, is on paper
one of the six best teams in the country but my team stood up against them
and played without fear. It could have easily been a point and nobody would
have said anything about that."
"We are confident, we are still three points clear and we are going to
defend those points with everything we can. You can see the team is
determined and together and it would be a pity if we don't [qualify] because
every single game they give everything and that is very good."
"We are in that position where we can go to every single game and give our
best and not feel too much pressure. So we know it is a difficult game but
it is going to be difficult for them as well. I hope to have Parker back as
he is an important player for us and he is getting better and better, but we
want to make sure he is 100 per cent fit."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Redknapp finds new friend in Pavlyuchenko
Tottenham Hotspur 1 West Ham United 0
By Tim Collings at White Hart Lane
Independent.co.uk
Sunday, 12 April 2009
Harry Redknapp declared Tottenham Hotspur had secured Premier League safety
with a familiar hangdog smile after this keenly-fought, but ultimately
deserved triumph at White Hart Lane yesterday (Saturday). The result,
secured by a well-taken second-half goal by the Russian striker Roman
Pavlyuchenko, was greeted with home glee as it completed a double, but
raised suspicions that Redknapp, once an Upton Park favourite, had no place
in the hearts of the visiting supporters.
"Yes, I think we will be safe," he said, acknowledging the consistency of
his team who have lost just once now in eight outings. "Maybe we are already
-- and it would be great if we can go on and qualify for a place in Europe.
I would love it if we can do that. Roman did well for us and scored a great
goal that proved what a fine technical player he is. But I think there is so
much more to come from him next season."
Few could argue with Redknapp's assessment. Tottenham dominated possession,
but struggled to turn that into clear openings with the blunt Darren Bent
struggling and they needed the half-time introduction of Didier Zokora's
bite and guile in midfield, followed by Pavlyuchenko's energy and skill, to
emerge triumphant. Gianfranco Zola's Hammers, passing fluently, and
well-organised with Lucas Neill outstanding in a defensive midfield role,
certainly played a full part in an absorbing contest.
"I knew at half-time that if we could keep our composure and continue to
stand up to Tottenham that we could take a point," said Zola. "But
Pavlyuchenko scored a very good goal and I think that was all there was
between the teams. We could have got a point, but not quite..." It was the
Hammers first defeat in six games.
From the start, it was clear it was to be an afternoon of pure football as
eight minutes passed before the first free-kick was awarded. The ball was
passed swiftly and accurately and there was plenty of creative movement so
it was some surprise that the first meaty shots on target did not arrive
until 30 minutes had passed. These were supplied by Tom Huddlestone, from 30
yards, and Robbie Keane, whose bouncing shot re-bounded off Robert Green's
chest. The goalkeeper dived splendidly to save the first.
A spell of bad tackling, including a rabbit-punch by Neill on the silky Luka
Modric, followed after the interval. This produced yellow cards for the
Australian, Luis Boa Morte and Zokora before Di Michele shot straight at
Gomes' feet after being set free, when Jonathan Woodgate missed a clearance
by Green. "This is the moment, I thought," admitted Zola. "But he is unlucky
in front of goal."
It was a costly miss and a generous comment. Within minutes, Vedran Corluka
advanced on the right, found Modric and the little schemer supplied
Pavlyuchenko who turned smoothly past Collins to roll a low shot beyond
Green. Collins partly atoned by clearing off the line from Keane in a
pulsating finale as Spurs hung on to their valuable victory.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Zola agrees new four-year West Ham deal
West Ham hierarchy in discussions with Italian
New four-year deal agreed in principle
David Hytner guardian.co.uk, Sunday 12 April 2009 14.11 BST Article history
Gianfranco Zola has agreed in principle to a new and improved four-year
contract at West Ham United, that will reward the progress he has overseen
since he succeeded Alan Curbishley last September. The Italian, whose only
previous managerial experience was as the assistant to his nation's under-21
team, has guided West Ham to seventh place in the Premier League, despite a
backdrop of off-the-field uncertainty, which the club believe has started to
ease. Zola's team has won 10 and lost 10 of their 28 league fixtures,
although with the table so tight, that has been sufficient to put them in
the driving seat for the final Europa League qualifying berth, the
competition currently known as the Uefa Cup. The West Ham hierarchy have
been in discussions with Zola, who is one of the lowest paid managers in the
division at present, and an announcement is expected as soon as Zola's
assistant Steve Clarke and other members of the backroom staff have agreed
their own new deals. Zola's annual salary will be increased to £1.5m. The
club have tied a host of players to fresh contracts this season, most
recently the highly rated youngsters James Tomkins, Mark Noble and Junior
Stanislas, who all started in yesterday's 1-0 defeat at Tottenham Hotspur.
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Upson: West Ham could challenge top four
Sport.co.uk
Author: Nigel Brown
Posted on: 13 April 2009 - 11:13 AM
West Ham defender Matthew Upson says the club have targeted breaking into
the top six next season - but he believes they could even qualify for the
Champions League. Saturday's 1-0 defeat at Spurs leaves Gianfranco Zola's
side in seventh, eight points behind sixth-placed Everton.But Upson believes
that once injury victims Valon Behrami, Scott Parker and Jack Collison
return, allied to potential summer signings, the club can kick on and
challenge the Premier League's elite. "If we had all out players available,
I think this club could definitely step into the top six and if we were
backed with some real quality players and strength in depth we could even
make the top four," said the England centre-back. "Top six is a big target
for this club in the next season or two and if we achieve that we could push
on further. "I've just said to (assistant manager) Steve Clarke in the
dressing room, 'is this club prepared if we do finish in seventh spot?'
"Getting into Europe would test the ambition of West Ham and how deep their
pockets are."
And Upson admitted he is desperate to qualify for the Europa League as it
will help his international ambitions. "I have personal aspirations that I
want to achieve, it is something that I want to do (play again in Europe).
"The better standard of football I play the better chance i have of
achieving those goals so I am desperate for the club to finish as high as we
can and get into Europe. "That will help me individually and everyone
collectively. To play against the best players in the world in European
competition can only help you, it's about testing yourself and showing
people that you are capable of performing at a high level. "That is
something I want to do because I want to play for England. If West Ham are
playing at a high level it is something that will help me."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Roman Pavlyuchenko fires Tottenham up to eighth
Roman Pavlyuchenko enhanced Tottenham's previously improbable chances of
qualifying for Europe when the Russian came off the bench to secure another
valuable victory for Harry Redknapp's side.
Telegraph.co.uk
By John Ley at White Hart Lane
Last Updated: 8:43PM BST 11 Apr 2009
The £13.7 million striker, whose future at Spurs remains unsure after
failing to start a game for more than a month, claimed his 14th goal of the
season to push Spurs closer to a most unlikely achievement.
When Redknapp arrived in October, Spurs were bottom, and heading for the
Championship, with two points from eight games. Now, with six games left,
they have 41 points and are in eighth place, their highest of the season and
just three points and one place shy of West Ham.
Chris Gunter still in Tottenham plans despite Nottingham Forest loanSo
rather than considering a European spot, Redknapp was celebrating Premier
League safety. "First and foremost we had to make sure we stayed up and that
should be okay. And now we are three points behind West Ham and that's how
crazy it is. I didn't think we would be sitting where we are now, I thought
it would go to the wire."
Of Pavlyuchenko, he added: "He is a good player but I just think he is
capable of more and has to work hard for the team."
West Ham's own hopes of Europe could be damaged by their injury problems;
they had so many men missing that right-back Lucas Neill was forced to play
as a holding midfielder.
Overall this was a generally even contest but twice in a dour first half
Spurs claimed a penalty. In the 21st minute Robbie Keane's ball clearly
struck James Tomkins on the hand but West Ham survived. And two minutes
later Keane tumbled under a challenge from Luis Boa Morte.
And Tom Huddlestone, in for the banned Wilson Palacios, saw one effort
parried by Robert Green, who then produced an even better save to thwart
Keane.
The game turned, however, on the 57th minute arrival of Pavlyuchenko, for
Darren Bent. Buyt it was West Ham who should have in the lead when David Di
Michele chased a long kick from Green, beat Jonathan Woodgate, then wasted
the chance with a tepid finish easily saved by Heurelho Gomes.
And in the 65th minute Pavlyuchenko scored the decisive goal. Corluka fed
Modric and he found the Russian who turned James Collins before finding the
far corner with an astute finish.
Afterwards, Gianfranco Zola remained defiant, saying: "We are still
confident of Europe. We are three points clear and we are going to defend
those three points with everything we have."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sunderland set to ask Alan Curbishley to be emergency new manager
Exclusive By Alan Nixon 14/04/2009
The Mirror
Sunderland are ready to ask Alan Curbishley to become their emergency new
manager – once he settles his dispute with West Ham this week. The Black
Cats are poised to pounce after Ricky Sbragia's bad run of results left them
on the brink of the drop. But the timing is delicate as Curbs faces a court
hearing on Friday to sort out his claim for constructive dismissal by West
Ham, with a £1million-plus pay-off on the line. He has turned down all other
approaches so far, but Sunderland would like a quick answer. However, the
date of the hearing means that Sbragia should still be in charge against
struggling Hull on Saturday. Curbishley pulled off a miracle escape for West
Ham two seasons ago and his experience is what appeals to The Black Cats.
They will offer him a huge bonus for saving them from the disaster of
relegation.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham boss Zola desperate to work with Ashton
13.04.09 | tribalfootball.com
West Ham United boss Gianfranco Zola admits he's desperate to work with
crocked England striker Dean Ashton. He told whufc.com: "We have played all
season without Dean Ashton When Ashton is back it is going to be a huge
thing for the club. We hope he will get a full pre-season. "The [ankle]
operation went well and he is doing very well. We are looking forward to
having him back at his best."
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West Ham boss Zola pleased with Tristan form
13.04.09 | tribalfootball.com
West Ham United boss Gianfranco Zola is pleased with Diego Tristan's
performance in recent games. After defeat to Tottenham, Zola told whufc.com:
"Diego has done very well, it is not easy. This is the third game he has
played of 90 minutes, more or less … you have to be understanding with him."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Zola to sign new West Ham contract this week
13.04.09 | tribalfootball.com
Gianfranco Zola is set to ink a new four-year contract with West Ham United.
The Daily Star says the Italian arrived at Upton Park in September but will
now double his salary to around £1.5m a year after steering the club to
seventh in the table. Zola had previously been one of the lowest-paid bosses
in the Premier League. His new deal will run from the start of next season
until 2013 with West Ham hoping it will ward off interest from other clubs.
Zola had been linked with a move to Chelsea earlier in the season before his
former club opted for Guus Hiddink. The Hammers plan to officially announce
the deal later this week.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Upson asks West Ham staff if they're serious about Europe
13.04.09 | tribalfootball.com
Matthew Upson admits he's asked West Ham United management if they're
serious about competing in the Europa League next season. The England
defender said: "I've just asked our coach Steve Clarke, 'Is this club
prepared if we do finish in seventh spot?' "I have read a few articles about
teams putting out second-string sides to play UEFA Cup ties and getting
criticised for it. "There's an irony about qualifying for the UEFA Cup. You
need to assess things as the season goes along — different competitions
assume different importance. "If you get into the latter stages of the UEFA
Cup, you might commit more players to that cause than the league. "Spurs
were fighting relegation at one stage and Villa were trying to get into the
top four, so the UEFA Cup became secondary. "Without a doubt, a mid-table
English team would have a good chance of winning the UEFA Cup."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Zola's new West Ham deal double-your-money
13.04.09 | tribalfootball.com
Gianfranco Zola's new deal is worth double his current wages at West Ham
United. West Ham are expected to announce Zola has signed a new four-year
contract some time this week. And the People says the Hammers board believe
they have fended off any possible summer interest from Chelsea by doubling
Zola's salary to more than £1.5million. The Italian was one of the
lowest-paid bosses in the Premier League when he took over at Upton Park as
a managerial rookie in September. But the Italian has been so impressive
during his first seven months in charge that Hammers owner Bjorgolfur
Gudmundsson rewarded him with a new deal. The agreement kicks in from the
start of next season and runs until 2013 and the Hammers hope to announce it
this week , once Zola's No.2 Steve Clarke and other members of the backroom
staff have also agreed renewed terms.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Gudmundsson hopes Zola deal helps West Ham sale
13.04.09 | tribalfootball.com
West Ham United owner Bjorgolfur Gudmundsson remains keen to find a new
buyer. Gianfranco Zola has agreed terms over a new four-year contract and
the People says tying him to a long-term deal could make the club a more
attractive proposition.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Zola disagrees with Redknapp's assessment of West Ham youngsters
14.04.09 | Ian Ferris
West Ham boss Gianfranco Zola has told Hammers starlets they can reach the
same heights as Rio Ferdinand and Frank Lampard, contrary to Harry
Redknapp's recent comments. The current Tottenham boss, Harry Redknapp,
claimed last week that the current crop of Hammers talent is nowhere near
the same calibre as the former stars.
But Zola has told the likes of Mark Noble, Freddie Sears and James Tomkins
they can emulate the exploits of their predecessors. "I believe when Rio or
Lamps or Joe Cole were coming through they were just promising. Then they
improved," the Italian said. "What I said about my players is that it is
just down to them. If they work hard every day and keep the right attitude
they can do that. "Maybe Harry has more experience than me and can see
forward more than me. But I believe everyone owns their own destiny. "When I
started playing football there were a few that said I wouldn't become the
player I was but they didn't know what my attitude and mentality was. "I
believe that if my players have the attitude they can become important
players. "If they push themselves hard and believe in what they do they will
go beyond the limits that people are putting on them now."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham's Upson keen to get back to winning ways
14.04.09 | Andrew Slevison
After dropping their unbeaten run of five matches, West Ham are looking to
get straight back on the winners stand according to defender Matthew Upson.
The loss to Tottenham on the weekend has made their next clash, with Aston
Villa away, very important. "It is another big test," Upson told the club's
official website. "We go there missing quite a lot of players, so our
strength in depth is being really tested. "I think we've come through it
really well and the players have come in and done a good job. We can go
there and get a result."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Neill to sign new contract with West Ham – Zola
14.04.09 | Andrew Slevison
West Ham boss Gianfranco Zola believes captain Lucas Neill will remain at
the club. The Socceroos skipper's contract at Upton Park expires at the end
of this season but Zola is confident he will retain the hard-nosed defender.
"I know the club are dealing with that and Lucas knows my opinion about that
so now it is down to Lucas and the club to find a solution and I believe
they are working with that," said Zola.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Inter want £10 million from West Ham for young star
Footylatest.com
News have emerged that West Ham boss Gianfranco Zola is interested in
bringing Inter Milan's Mario Balotelli to EPL football, but could be facing
a financial challenge as Mourinho's outfit are demanding more than 10
million for the release of the 18 year old striker. Balotelli has already
made 27 appearances in Inter's shirt in Serie A since his debut in December
2007 vs Cagliari. He has hit the net 8 times for them so far and is soon
becoming a semi-regular on which Mourinho relies.
The Italian of Ghanaian descent is also a member of the Italian U 21 squad
and has scored 3 goals in 6 games in their colours, but has yet to be called
up to represent Italy on the seniors level. Whether Zola will have the money
to fund this deal is questionable. Furthermore, it is highly doubtful that
Mourinho will let this young talent slip away so easily. Unless the
Portuguese tactician is successful in signing at least one of his EPL big
names targets (ex: Drogba), and with Adriano already out of Baloteli's way,
and Ibrahimovic wanting to join a side with which he could win the CL title
before he retires, the starlet has every chance to become Inter's main
striker before he is 20 years old.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
LEE BOWYER EYES SWITCH
Hammers ace considers full-time Brum move
News Of the World
11/04/2009
WEST HAM'S Lee Bowyer is ready to consider making his loan deal at
Birmingham City permanent. Midfielder Bowyer, 32, is playing a key role in
the Blues' bid to make an instant return to the Premier League, and the
midfielder said: "Obviously, any decision will be made in the summer. I'll
have to consider my options. "I am looking to do what I joined Birmingham
for and that is to help them get into the Premier League. "I still feel I
have a lot to give. I am still getting box to box, and the more games I have
played for Birmingham the better I feel I have become."
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