West Ham United 2-2 Fulham
04.10.2009
Barclays Premier League
West Ham United v Fulham
Boleyn Ground
Sunday 4 October 2009
3pm
Referee: Phil Dowd
Full-time score - West Ham United 2-2 Fulham
95 min - Eight seconds past four minutes of added-time and referee Dowd
blows for full-time.
94 min - How did Johnson not score that!? Murphy sends the ball forward and
Green comes out to clear. Johnson charges the ball down and has only Upson
to beat to find the empty net. He delays too long and allows Green to get
back into his penalty area, then drags his shot wide of the near post. He
really should have scored.
92 min - GOAL! Cruel on Fulham, but vital for West Ham. Stanislas rounds
Gera and shoots. The ball hits Hughes and flies past Schwarzer.
92 min - West Ham continue to press, but they can't get a clear shot at
goal...
90 min - Fourth official Taylor holds up the electronic board. West Ham have
four extra minutes to save their skins. As he does so, Hughes heads
Faubert's cross behind for a corner. Diamanti scuffs it, though, and Fulham
clear.
88 min - Cole holds the ball up superbly before finding Jimenez. The Chilean
feeds Stanislas, whose shot is deflected over. Diamanti swings over the
corner, but Fulham are able to head clear.
86 min - Pantsil tries to clear in his unique acrobatic style and only
manages to put the ball out for a corner. Schwarzer punches the ball clear
and Riise races off up the right touchline. Stanislas tracks him all the way
and finally gets a tackle in, but only at the expense of a corner. Fulham
work it short, but Johnson ends up fouling and is booked for his troubles.
83 min - Dempsey is felled by Jimenez and immediately signals to the bench
that he will need to be replaced. Bjorn Helge Riise is on for the final
seven minutes plus added-time.
81 min - Decent counter-attack from West Ham. Noble sprays the ball out wide
to the left and Faubert cuts inside, but his shot is too close to Schwarzer.
Fulham make a second change, with Kamara being replaced by Eddie Johnson.
80 min - Dempsey shoots and Green claws the ball behind for a corner, which
Tomkins heads clear.
78 min - Fulham break away through Kamara, only for Behrami to sprint back
50 yards and win the ball off the African. Great work.
77 min - Good from Cole, who picks the ball up just inside the box, cuts
back on his left foot and wins a corner. The ball is worked back to
Diamanti, who gives Konchesky a headache with a well-struck shot.
76 min - Every player bar Green is inside the Fulham half as Tomkins strides
forward and shoots from 30 yards. Schwarzer dives, but does not need to
touch the ball as it flies wide of the post.
75 min - Fulham have set up with two banks of four and Kamara ploughing a
furrow as a lone front man. West Ham are trying manfully to play through the
massed ranks of white shirts. 15 minutes to go...
73 min - Tactically, Jimenez is now supporting Cole, with Behrami and Noble
in the centre of midfield and Stanislas out on the left wing.
71 min - Two changes for West Ham. Parker and Hines are the players
replaced, with Behrami and Stanislas on in their respective places.
70 min - Faubert finds Diamanti down the right. He cuts inside his marker
and shoots, but the ball is never threatening Schwarzer's goal and the
Australian allows it to bounce wide for a goal kick.
67 min - Diamanti lets fly with a low shot, but it bounces wide of the far
post. Ilunga and Jimenez had combined to set up that chance for the Italian.
West Ham need some inspiration from somewhere. It looks like Behrami will be
on soon.
65 min - 25 minutes to go. Will Zola call for a substitute soon? He has
Behrami, Spector and Stanislas warming up on the touchline.
62 min - Cole is brought down just outside the penalty area. Jimenez looks
like he wants to take this one. It certainly favours a right-footed player.
Diamanti takes and the ball hits the wall.
61 min - A tactical change from Zola. Hines joins Cole up front, with
Diamanti wide on the right and Jimenez wide on the left.
59 min - Faubert is booked for throwing the ball in the direction of Faubert
after being adjudged to have tripped the forward.
57 min - GOAL! Fulham's ten men take the lead. Konchesky's corner looped
over Green to the back post and Gera volleyed home.
56 min - Upson brings down Dempsey 30 yards out. Konchesky fancies this one.
It takes a big deflection off the wall and Green scrambles across his goal
to push the ball out for a corner.
55 min - Fulham still carry a threat on the break. Dempsey turns and hits
the ball on the volley, but it flies over the top.
54 min - Kamara carries the ball clear from the flag-kick and Jimenez trips
him, earning a booking.
53 min - We've got 32,612 fans inside the Boleyn Ground today, but they are
not making much noise. West Ham are doing all the attacking here. Faubert
curls over a cross and Pantsil heads it behind for a corner.
50 min - A nice piece of skill sees Diamanti scoot past two Fulham
defenders, but he is unable to open up his body enough and his weak shot is
easily saved by Schwarzer.
49 min - Fulham's 1,000-strong support are making plenty of noise in the
away end, as you might expect. Fulham are sitting really deep here and
trying to keep hold of what they have got.
47 min - GOAL! Murphy sends Green the wrong way and the scores are level.
46 min - Disaster for West Ham 30 seconds into the second half as Upson
fells Kamara inside the penalty area and Dowd points to the spot. Murphy to
take..
Fulham make a half-time change, bringing off striker Johnson for defender
Chris Baird, who is confusingly going to line up in central midfield
alongside Muprhy.
'Stone Cold' Steve Austin earns a loud cheer when he announces he is
supporting West Ham today. The former wrestler-turned-actor is in the UK to
promote his new film 'Damage'. Austin is in fine form, whipping up the crowd
and telling West Ham to 'open a can of whoop ass' during the second half,
which is the 46-year-old's legendary catchphrase, for those not educated in
wrestling parlance.
Half-time score - West Ham United 1-0 Fulham
49 min - Referee Dowd brings the opening half to a close. That certainly
livened up as it went along.
48 min - West Ham are all over Fulham here. Hines' first-time cross hits
Pantsil and goes out for a corner. Noble rolls the ball into Diamanti's
path, but he slices the ball wide of the target from 20 yards.
45 min - Three minutes of added-time will be played and Hodgson will be
desperate to get his players into the away dressing room. West Ham threaten
twice within the space of a few seconds. First, Noble shoots straight at
Schwarzer, then Hines fires wide of the far post.
44 min - West Ham need to put this game to bed now and clinch a first home
league win of the season. They are trying to do just that as Faubert
rampages down the right flank before seeing his cross deflected into the
hands of Schwarzer.
40 min - Confusion here. Parker is booked following an off-the-ball incident
involving Dikgacoi, who also appears to be shown the yellow card. Referee
Dowd then goes over to the touchline and talks to fourth official Anthony
Taylor before showing the South African a red card. So, Fulham are down to
ten men...
38 min - West Ham are playing well now. Faubert finds Jimenez with a neat,
lofted ball and he clips it through for Cole to chase. The big man is only
denied a clear shooting chance by Hughes' alert defending. Cole reacts
quickest, but his left-foot shot is blocked out for a corner. Fulham clear
the resulting set piece.
36 min - So close to a second for the Hammers. Jimenez's shot is blocked and
spins wide right to Diamanti. The Italian drops a shoulder to make himself a
bit of space before clipping in a right-footed cross that Pantsil can only
hack clear to Parker 25 yards out. The midfielder hits his shot well, but
Schwarzer is able to gather diving low to his right.
35 min - Fulham launch a counter-attack and Kamara is allowed to shoot from
25 yards, but the ball thuds into Green's midriff.
34 min - Good stuff again from West Ham. Hines gets away down the left flank
and feeds Parker, who skips around one challenge before squaring to Cole,
but the striker's shot flies wide of the near post.
32 min - Murphy is slightly fortunate not to see yellow there after pulling
back Diamanti just inside the West Ham half.
31 min - Neat skill from Jimenez takes him away from two Fulham players, but
he chooses to pass to Cole instead of shoot from 25 yards, and the chance is
lost. Shame.
30 min - Ironic cheers for Tomkins as his clearance lands on the roof of the
East Stand.
28 min - Nice football again there. Jimenez clips a neat ball into Cole with
the outside of his right foot. The goalscorer chests down into the path of
Noble, who appears to be impeded by Dikgacoi as he shoots, but referee Dowd
gives nothing.
26 min - Superb football from the home side earns a round of applause from
the stands. West Ham work the ball from back to front and side to side with
a real fluency. Hines is just unable to divert his header goalwards, but the
new England Under-21 call-up is having a lively game so far.
23 min - Lucky, lucky West Ham. Jimenez concedes a free-kick in the
midfield. Murphy takes it quickly and Johnson escapes Upson's clutches, only
to drag his shot wide of the far post with only Green to beat. To be fair to
the defender, he got back in and put the striker off at the last minute.
21 min - Roy Hodgson clearly isn't too impressed with what he is watching.
The Fulham manager sends out three substitutes to warm up. Jonathan Spector
is also jogging along an increasingly crowded touchline.
19 min - That goal has given West Ham a real shot of confidence. They are
knocking the ball around nicely now, and Faubert wins a corner on the left
off Konchesky. So close to a second goal! Diamanti's corner is driven rather
than curled and clears the head of Hughes, allowing Tomkins to nod
goalwards, but his effort bounces a yard wide of the far post.
16 min - GOAL! I told you it was potentially dangerous, didn't I! Diamanti
whips the ball into the near post and Cole outjumps Hangeland to head the
ball in at the near post, giving Schwarzer no chance whatsoever. Four goals
in seven league games for the England man.
15 min - Nice play from Upson finds Faubert on the right. The Frenchman
swaps passes with Diamanti before being unceremoniously brought down by
Hangeland near the corner flag. The Norwegian is booked for his troubles,
and West Ham have another potentially dangerous set piece.
12 min - Good work from Faubert prevents a corner after Gera's shot had
deflected off Upson.
11 min - Noble rolls the ball to Jimenez, who does likewise to Diamanti, but
the Italian's first-time shot is wayward and flies into the Sir Trevor
Brooking Stand.
10 min - The game has yet to catch light as yet. Both teams are, to use a
cliche, feeling each other out, whatever that means! West Ham get the ball
down for the first time and spread play from touchline to touchline.
Diamanti finds Ilunga with a delightful crossfield pass, and the DR Congo
man is felled by Pantsil. Free-kick four yards outside the box.
8 min - Jimenez loses the ball in midfield and it is worked forward to
Kamara, but the Senegal man's shot is, to put it bluntly, poor, and rolls
out for a goal kick.
7 min - Kamara chases another hopeful ball down the left channel, forcing
Tomkins into conceding the first corner of the game. Murphy takes and Green
claims with ease above his head.
5 min - Behrami heads back to take his seat on the bench. You can see the
Switzerland midfielder is itching to get into the action! On the pitch, Gera
picks up possession in midfield before sending a bouncing shot straight at
Green from 25 yards.
4 min - Parker is back on. Aaron Hughes launches a long ball forward down
the inside-right channel. Kamara gets there first, but Tomkins eases the
forward off the ball before clearing.
3 min - Scott Parker appears to have picked up head injury and is receiving
some treatment. Valon Behrami, sporting some fetching red boots, is sent out
to warm-up. It looks like Parker will be okay to continue, though.
2 min - Jimenez has dropped back into midfield, with Hines and Diamanti
supporting Cole up top. Diamanti is playing on the right, and Hines to the
left.
1 min - West Ham get the ball forward quickly to Cole, who fires a snap shot
over Mark Schwarzer's crossbar. More of the same please.
3pm - Luis Jimenez and Carlton Cole get us underway...
2.58pm - Paul Konchesky and John Pantsil get a decent round of applause as
the two teams are read out. Upson and Danny Murphy are called forward by
referee Phil Dowd for the pre-match photographs and coin-toss.
2.56pm - And here come the two teams... Matthew Upson leads out West Ham,
which is a sight for sore eyes. The England defender has been missed in
recent weeks and will be a welcome sight for Hammers fans.
2.55pm - Herbie the Hammer is doing some limbering up exercises along the
touchline to Fatboy Slim's 'Right here, right now'. Interesting... West
Ham's substitutes are taking their seats in the dugout. Manuel Da Costa
takes the opportunity to sign a few autographs.
2.50pm - Two ex-Hammers in the Fulham team today, but no Bobby Zamora, who
is ruled out through injury. A bit of a shame for Zamora, who was a hero
during his time at the Boleyn Ground. The striker not only scored the goal
that took the Hammers to the Premier League in 2005, but also netted plenty
more to help keep them there in 2007.
2.45pm - A host of former Hammers stars have turned out for today's London
derby. Tony Cottee and Boys of 86 team-mate Ray Stewart are down pitchside
being interviewed over the public address system. Alan Devonshire and Julian
Dicks have both been spotted in the lounges, too. The biggest star,
literally, to turn out this afternoon is WWE superstar 'Stone Cold' Steve
Austin. The big wrestler is a guest of West Ham midfielder Kieron Dyer, who
is a huge fan of the sport.
Good afternoon from the Boleyn Ground.
Gianfranco Zola makes two changes from the team that lost at Manchester City
six days ago. Captain Matthew Upson is fit enough from to return from the
calf injury that kept him out of that game, while further forward Zavon
Hines is recalled in place of the injured Radoslav Kovac. Valon Behrami
returns to the bench.
Fulham make seven changes from Thursday's UEFA Europa League win over Basel,
recalling former Hammer John Pantsil, Aaron Hughes, Brede Hangeland, Zoltan
Gera and Diomansy Kamara and handing a first Premier League start to South
Africa international Kagisho Dikgacoi.
West Ham United: Green, Faubert, Tomkins, Upson, Ilunga, Parker (Behrami
71), Noble, Jimenez, Diamanti, Hines (Stanislas 71), Cole
Subs: Kurucz, Spector, Da Costa, Payne, Nouble
Fulham: Schwarzer, Konchesky, Hughes, Hangeland, Pantsil, Dikgacoi, Gera,
Murphy, Dempsey (Riise 83), Kamara (Johnson 81), Johnson (Baird 46)
Subs: Zuberbuhler, Kelly, Greening, Nevland
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Stanislas salvages point
WHUFC.com
An added-time Junior Stanislas strike earned West Ham United a 2-2 draw with
Fulham on Sunday
04.10.2009
West Ham United 2-2 Fulham
A Junior Stanislas goal two minutes into added- time rescued a Barclays
Premier League point for West Ham United in Saturday's London derby with
Fulham. Carlton Cole opened the scoring with a brilliant header on 16
minutes before Fulham were reduced to ten men when Kagisho Dikgacoi sent off
before half-time. The visitors came out strongly after the interval though
and a penalty from Danny Murphy and a Zoltan Gera strike put them in front.
It looked like Fulham would record their first win at the Boleyn Ground
since 2001 before Stanislas' late intervention. Gianfranco Zola had called
for "Thunder" from his players in the build up to the game and the chances
of creating such a storm appeared to increase before kick-off with the news
that captain Matthew Upson was fit to return from a calf injury. He was
joined in the starting XI by Zavon Hines, who replaced muscle-injury victim
Radoslav Kovac. Fulham made six changes from the side that beat Basel in the
UEFA Europa League on Thursday including a Premier League debut for South
African international Dikgacoi. Just 17 seconds were on the clock when Cole
gave a taster of what was to come after collecting an Upson ball forward on
his chest and hitting a volley that flew narrowly over.
After a largely scrappy opening quarter-of-an-hour, West Ham slowly found
their passing rhythm. One such move pressured Brede Hangeland into
clattering Faubert, who was flying forward after a neat one-two with
Diamanti. The Fulham No5 was booked and the resulting free-kick bore the
game's opening goal as Diamanti's whipped ball was met by a powerful header
from Cole. The goal seemed to breed confidence in the hosts and minutes
later Diamanti came close to grabbing his second assist as his corner was
headed inches wide by James Tomkins. Fulham's first real chance of note was
passed up when Andy Johnson rolled his shot wide following Danny Murphy's
quick free-kick, although the presence of Upson undoubtedly made the
opening harder for the striker. Parker was next to threaten after connecting
with a 25-yard volley, which arrowed down the centre of the goal and safely
into Mark Schwarzer's arms. The home side's quest for a fifth straight win
for east London over west looked to have become a tad easer when Dikgacoi
was dismissed for clashing with Parker off the ball. The West Ham United
midfielder was shown a caution for his part in the fracas. Hines went close
to sending the Hammers into the break two-up in the second minute of added-
time when he smashed a shot just wide of the top corner. Fulham used the
break to make a change with Chris Baird coming on for Johnson and the
Northern Ireland international had barely been on the pitch for 30 seconds
when his side earned a golden chance to draw level. Upson was adjudged to
have fouled Diomansy Kamara in the area and Murphy made no mistake from the
resulting spot-kick, sending Green the wrong way from 12 yards.
Fulham continued to exert pressure and Jimenez and Faubert were both carded
as frustration grew among the home side. Things were to get worse still
though as Green did well to tip a deflected Konchesky free-kick around the
post and when the same player floated in the resulting corner, Gera was on
hand to steer the ball in at the far post.
The home support among the 32,612 inside the Boleyn Ground were stunned into
a temporary silence but were soon roaring their encouragement again as two
Diamanti long-rangers whistled just wide. The introduction of the fit-again
Valon Behrami and Stanislas with 19 minutes to go added further attacking
impetuous for the home side, while Fulham also made two changes with Eddie
Johnson and Bjorn Helge Riise coming on for Kamara and Dempsey.
West Ham threw everything forward and after several long-range shots did not
trouble Schwarzer, Stanislas' 20-yard shot deflected off Aaron Hughes and
past the helpless Australian. Johnson had a clear chance to steal victory
for the Cottagers after charging down Green's clearance, but the American
was unable to find the target with only Upson between him and the unguarded
net. With the international break now upon us, West Ham United have 13 days
to prepare for their next league game away at Stoke City on 17 October.
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Consistency is the key
WHUFC.com
Gianfranco Zola has demanded more from his players following Sunday's 2-2
draw with Fulham
04.10.2009
Gianfranco Zola has called on his West Ham United players to find a greater
level of consistency following Sunday's 2-2 Barclays Premier League draw
with Fulham. The Hammers took a first-half lead through Carlton Cole and
created several more clear-cut chances before the break at the Boleyn
Ground. The 40th-minute sending-off of South African midfielder Kagisho
Dikgacoi appeared to hand the hosts the perfect platform to complete a
convincing victory. However, Danny Murphy's 47th-minute penalty was followed
ten minutes later by a Zoltan Gera volley, meaning West Ham needed Junior
Stanislas' deflected added-time strike to salvage a point from a game Zola
felt they should have won. "To be honest, I wasn't very happy, because after
the first half I was expecting to be at least another goal up considering
the chances that we created. I wondered that the game wasn't finished. "I
didn't like something in the game. I smelled something wrong because it
looked too easy. We were passing the ball fantastically well and creating
chances, but not scoring and that's not good. "In the second half, it's not
the first time we've started a little bit sloppy. They got back in the game,
then scored a second goal and, after that, it's normal that it was difficult
because Fulham are very, very good when they have to defend. It was very
difficult for us to get the draw but, at the end of the day, it was a fair
result."
While the home side held the upper hand for long periods of the opening 45
minutes, the second period proved hugely frustrating for Zola, who saw
uncharacteristic mistakes hand Fulham an unexpected lifeline. Giving a
typically honest assessment, Zola said he had told his players that their
concentration levels and attitude needed to improve if results were to do
likewise. "What was poor was that, when we conceded a goal, the whole team
was like it lost faith and lost belief, and that's what I really hate. On
Sunday, Arsenal were losing twice and in the end they beat Blackburn 6-2, so
that's the sort of belief we have to keep. "What happens is that you keep
playing your own football and then, at the end of the game, we'll see what
is going to happen. I don't like that kind of attitude. We have to react and
we have to be stronger. We can't let this happen after one goal again. I
made those points in the dressing room. "I don't think this was our worst
performance. The first half, quality-wise, was OK. It's just that we don't
have that consistency throughout the game that will give us points instead
of draws or defeats. "The players are really trying very hard and I don't
think it's a matter of commitment - the commitment if fantastic from
everybody. We just need to improve our focus. At the end of the day, a game
is made by details and if you don't pay attention to those details you will
keep dropping points. It's as simple as that. We have to raise our attention
and I will be working on that."
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Trio in England squad
WHUFC.com
West Ham United's three England players will all get a chance to round out
World Cup qualifying in style
04.10.2009
Robert Green, Matthew Upson and Carlton Cole have all been named in Fabio
Capello's 24-man squad to face Ukraine and Belarus in the final two 2010
FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
The West Ham United trio will travel with the squad to Ukraine for the first
match next Saturday before England welcome Belarus to Wembley four days
later. Green has been first choice in goal for the last five internationals
while Upson has moved on to 17 caps and Cole has four appearances to date.
England are already assured of a place at the finals next summer in South
Africa.
England squad
Robert Green, David James, Paul Robinson; Wayne Bridge, Wes Brown, Ashley
Cole, Rio Ferdinand, Glen Johnson, Joleon Lescott, John Terry, Matthew
Upson; Gareth Barry, David Beckham, Michael Carrick, Steven Gerrard, Frank
Lampard, Aaron Lennon, James Milner, Shaun Wright-Phillips; Gabriel
Agbonlahor, Carlton Cole, Peter Crouch, Emile Heskey, Wayne Rooney
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Duo make league debuts
WHUFC.com
Loanees Holmar Orn Eyjolfsson and Anthony Edgar made their senior bows on
Saturday afternoon
04.10.2009
Two of West Ham United's band of loanees made their Football League debuts
on Saturday afternoon. Holmar Orn Eyjolfsson made a fine debut for
Cheltenham Town, helping the Robins to a 1-1 draw with big-spending Notts
County, while forward Anthony Edgar was wearing the colours of League Two
high-fliers AFC Bournemouth for the first time.
England Under-21 striker Freddie Sears, however, was ruled out of Crystal
Palace's 4-1 Championship victory over Blackpool by an ankle injury. Spence
has been in impressive form for Scunthorpe, but was an unused substitute in
Saturday's 2-1 Championship defeat by Plymouth Argyle at Home Park. In
League Two, 19-year-old Eyjolfsson was named in Martin Allen's starting
lineup against Notts County. The Iceland U21 defender made his league debut
at Whaddon Road, having appeared for Alex Dyer's reserve side at Portsmouth
in midweek, and was given a 66-minute run out before being replaced by
veteran striker Julian Alsop with Town trailing 1-0. Lively forward Edgar,
who signed his first professional contract in the summer after coming
through the Academy ranks, completed a full 90 minutes for top-of-the-table
Bournemouth at Port Vale.
Edgar, who has been with the Hammers since the age of nine and still lives
within walking distance of the Boleyn Ground, was also making his league
debut on Saturday and did well at both ends of the pitch. The versatile
19-year-old has followed in the footsteps of cousin Jermain Defoe, who
scored 19 goals in 31 appearances for the Dorset club during the 2000/01
season. Bournemouth are two points clear at the top of League Two, while
Cheltenham are 12th. Edgar could be back in action again on Tuesday evening
when Bournemouth travel to Northampton Town in the Johnstone's Paint Trophy.
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Werndly at the double
WHUFC.com
Young forward Jack Werndly scored his first two goals at U18 level in a 3-3
draw with Southampton
03.10.2009
West Ham United U18s 3-3 Southampton U18s
Two Jack Werndly goals were not enough to help West Ham United to a first
win in six matches on Saturday as Southampton battled from a two-goal
deficit to draw at the death.
Werndly was making his first start of the season and showed good composure
to score in each half - his first U18 goals - before Danny Subuola also got
off the mark at this level with the third on a windy morning at Little
Heath. That put the Hammers 3-1 up but Carr's young charges allowed the
visitors to force their way back into the contest and only a last-ditch Jack
Lampe clearance late on ensured the point.
West Ham had been full value for their lead with Ahmed Abdulla pulling the
strings. The Saudi Arabian-born forward made all three goals and turned in
an impressive display in a dynamic front-three formation fielded by Carr.
The Hammers were without Danny Purdy, who scored while on international duty
last week with the Republic of Ireland U17 side.
Werndly broke the deadlock by lifting the ball neatly over the Saints keeper
after Abdulla had beaten the defence with a chipped pass. However, the
visitors were able to equalise before half-time and more goals always seemed
likely after the interval.
In the second half, the Hammers were on top and few were surprised when
Abdulla pushed the ball through to Werndly to score with a left-footed drive
across the keeper that took a wicked bounce on its way into the net. Abdulla
then supplied a through-ball for Subuola to smash in a strong right-footed
third. Subuola was substituted soon afterwards, allowing promising U16
forward Dylan Tombides to make his first U18 appearance.
Southampton's first goal back came on a quick counterattack after a West Ham
free-kick in Southampton territory before an uncharacteristic error by Denis
Mehmet in the closing stages allowed the equaliser. The Turkey U17
international, who is still only 16 and trained with the first team last
week, came to make a routine catch but allowed the ball to squeeze out of
his grasp and a Southampton player was on hand to convert.
West Ham United: Mehmet, Smith, Brown, Lampe, Sanchez, Barrett, Moncur (Okus
75), Wearen (Driver 90), Werndly, Subuola (Tombides 60), Abdulla
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West Ham 2 - 2 Fulham
BBC.co.uk
By Peter Scrivener
Junior Stanislas' deflected injury-time equaliser clinched a first home
point of the season for West Ham against 10-man Fulham at Upton Park.
Carlton Cole nodded in Alessandro Diamanti's near-post free-kick from six
yards to put West Ham ahead. Fulham's Kagisho Dikgacoi was sent off after
an off-the-ball incident with Scott Parker but Danny Murphy's penalty after
the break levelled the scores. Zoltan Gera then volleyed in from close range
before Stanislas' late strike. The Hammers, who had lost their first two
league games at Upton Park this season, looked understandably nervous in the
opening exchanges. However, Fulham struggled to take advantage as both sides
traded possession in a busy midfield. But the home supporters were awoken
from their post Sunday-lunch slumbers by Cole's towering header. Fulham
centre-back Brede Hangeland was penalised for a rash lunge on Julien Faubert
and Diamanti's in-swinging left-foot cross was met beautifully by Cole.
James Tomkins almost doubled West Ham's lead moments later, but his downward
header from another inch-perfect Diamanti cross bounced just wide of the
post. Andy Johnson then wasted a good chance for Fulham, dragging his shot
wide after he had been played through by Murphy's delightfully weighted
slide-rule free-kick. Fulham have won just three of their previous 37
Premier League London derbies away from Craven Cottage, and their fans could
have been forgiven for thinking that dismal record was not going to be
improved when Dikgacoi was sent off.
The South African, making his Premier League debut, put his hand in Parker's
face and while both players were shown a yellow card, after consulting his
assistant, referee Phil Dowd dismissed Dikgacoi.
Fulham's numerical disadvantage prompted Fulham boss Roy Hodgson to
sacrifice forward Johnson, who had picked up a slight injury, and bring on
defender Chris Baird, leaving Diomansy Kamara as the lone striker. Within a
minute of the restart, Kamara was hauled down in the penalty box by Matthew
Upson and Murphy sent Green the wrong way from the spot to score his fourth
of the season. Green was quickly in action again, reacting superbly to push
Paul Konchesky's deflected free-kick away for a corner. But when the Fulham
full-back swung over the corner, Green misjudged his leap and Gera gleefully
volleyed in past a helpless Mark Noble on the line. Fulham then sat back and
were content to let West Ham pass the ball across the pitch in front of them
and the home side, unable to find the incisive pass, were forced to resort
to long-range efforts. Diamanti dragged a left-foot shot well wide, while
substitute Stanislas, Herita Ilunga and Faubert all fired straight at Fulham
keeper Mark Schwarzer. But as the fourth official announced four minutes of
added time and disgruntled Hammers fans began streaming for the exits, one
of those long-range shots finally found its way past Schwarzer as Stanislas'
effort took a wicked deflection off Aaron Hughes to wrong-foot the Fulham
goalkeeper. There was still time for Fulham to almost snatch a winner when
substitute Eddie Johnson blocked Green's attempted clearance, but the
American, under pressure from Upson, dragged his shot wide.
West Ham manager Gianfranco Zola: "The way we were playing in the first half
it looked to easy and I was afraid the story of the game could change. "It
did because of sloppy mistakes and it's not the first time we have switched
off after half time. "We need to work on that because it is spoiling the
good work that we have done. "Good organisation and play is worth nothing if
we don't have focus at crucial times of the game - we are playing well, but
not getting the points."
Fulham manager Roy Hodgson: "It was a harsh way to lose two points after we
had done so well to get ourselves in a position to win three. "We played
really well in the second half with and without the ball. "It's hard to be
happy, or satisfied, but I'm proud of my players, they deserve every credit
for the way they played."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Dikgacoi dismissal angers Hodgson
BBC.co.uk
Fulham manager Roy Hodgson said he had sympathy for Kagisho Dikgacoi after
he was sent off for violent conduct during their 2-2 draw with West Ham. The
South African midfielder, 24, who was making his league debut, clashed with
Scott Parker before half-time. But Hodgson said: "I didn't see any signs of
violent conduct - to call it handbags would be exaggerating it. "The player
and referee, who had to send him off for raising his hand, have my sympathy.
He didn't deserve it." Dikgacoi and Parker collided in the 42nd minute after
the West Ham midfielder had laid the ball off and, after what looked at
first glance to be a minor skirmish, referee Phil Dowd appeared to show both
players a yellow card. Television replays showed Dikgacoi raising his hand
to Parker's face and after further consultation with his assistant referee,
Dowd showed Dikgacoi a red card.
"The referees are under such enormous instruction, so he has my sympathy,"
Hodgson added. "But they should be given more leeway to look at each
situation individually.
"I come from a generation where violent conduct is violent. "I have a
problem getting my head around two players nose-to-nose and one of them sent
off for violent conduct. I have a problem with that." Hodgson also revealed
that he had a conversation with Parker as the two walked down the tunnel at
half-time. "I was irate and I made my feelings known to Scott," said
Hodgson. "He conducted himself well though and he thought it was a sending
off, so we agreed to differ on the matter." Fulham, who were trailing 1-0 at
the time, responded magnificently after the break, scoring two quick goals
to take the lead. But their hopes of clinching a memorable victory were
dashed in injury time when Junior Stanislas' shot deflected off Aaron Hughes
to leave Cottagers keeper Mark Schwarzer stranded.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Commentator 'recovering'
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 4th October 2009
By: Staff Writer
Radio commentator Nigel Adderley is recovering in hospital after suffering a
suspected fit whilst reporting on today's West Ham v Fulham match. Adderley,
commentating for Radio Five had been broadcasting as usual before suffering
the suspected seizure. Five Live continued to broadcast around 30 seconds of
silence, punctuated by fellow commentator Matt Holland asking Adderley if he
was alright before switching to a pre-recorded piece. The station failed to
revert to the game and later apologised for the break in transmission
blaming 'technical problems'.
Eye-witnesses reported seeing 37-year-old Adderley, who was seated in the
West Stand's press enclosure, apparently fitting midway through the second
half. After some time paramedics arrived and the broadcaster was seen to sit
up before being taken to hospital. KUMB.com's hopes for a swift and full
recovery go to Mr.Adderley.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hodgson bemoans dismissal
Red card for Dikgacoi unjust, says Fulham boss
Last updated: 4th October 2009
SSN
Fulham boss Roy Hodgson sympathised with Kagisho Dikgacoi after the
midfielder was red-carded during their 2-2 draw at West Ham. Dikgacoi was
making his debut for the club but received his marching orders for violent
conduct towards the end of the first half with his side already a goal down.
The South African, who joined Fulham from Golden Arrows in the summer,
appeared to head-butt Hammers midfielder Scott Parker in an off-the-ball
incident which was spotted by the fourth official. Despite being a goal
down, Fulham recovered from the setback to take the lead in the second
period, only being denied a win by a late Junior Stanislas strike. Hodgson
was quick to deny any wrongdoing by Dikgacoi and voiced his sympathy with
the player as his debut was cut short. "It didn't look too violent to me,
I've got to say," Hodgson told Sky Sports. "The lad has come out of South
Africa and was playing his first match. "I don't know what happened between
the two players but I'm always disappointed when professional players get
sent off for something that the word 'handbags' would be an exaggeration. "I
come from a time of playing football when there was quite a lot of violence
on the football field and people actually did get head-butted and get kicked
and people got hurt. "At most you could accuse him of being naïve, that I
suppose is a crime but he's devastated and he's got my sympathy."
Hodson was reluctant to criticise referee Phil Dowd but reiterated his
disagreement with the decision. He added: "I can't say that I accept it, and
I can't say that I think it's a good thing because I think the spectacle
would have been better had it continued with 11 against 11." A Danny Murphy
penalty and a Zoltan Gera volley turned the game on its head in the second
half after Carlton Cole had given West Ham a first-half lead. Fulham were
resilient for the reminder of the game but were finally undone by Stanislas'
deflected strike in injury time but Hodgson remains proud of his players. He
said: "We played so well for all of 50 to 60 minutes playing with 10 men. I
thought we did really well to contain them in that period and create chances
of our own. "Of course when you concede a goal in the dying minutes with a
deflection it's very difficult to say I'm satisfied, that I'm happy. "But
I'm very proud and very satisfied, more than satisfied, with my players'
performances. "I don't think there is any more they could have done, there
were some sturdy performances out there and I suppose my disappointment is
more for them. "We'll get over it and we'll take positives from it which was
largely the performance."
Hodgson feels his side were always in control of the game even as Cole
headed the hosts into the lead after 16 minutes. "I thought we were very
unlucky to be a goal down at that time because I thought we'd controlled the
game well and had chances of our own," he said. "So of course then we went
down to 10 men and it was still 1-0, things looked bleak, but the players
continued to play in the same way and we kept the ball quite well even with
10. "And most important of all the defensive organisation was as good as it
had been in the first half."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Stanislas denies 10-man Fulham
Substitute earns a point as debutant Dikgacoi sees red
By Jamie Casey Last updated: 4th October 2009
SSN
Man of the Match: Diomansy Kamara worked tirelessly in the second-half,
helping out at the back with his team a man down.
Goal of the Match: Carlton Cole's bullet header to open the scoring was
straight out of the textbook.
Moment of the Match: Dikgacoi's red card should have given West Ham an
incentive to finish off the game but instead it rejuvenated Fulham.
Talking Point: Can West Ham recreate last season's fine form? How far can
Fulham go this year?
West Ham required an injury-time equaliser from Junior Stanislas to earn a
2-2 draw against 10-man Fulham. Fulham debutant Kagisho Dikgacoi received
his marching orders in the 42nd minute for an apparent head-butt on Scott
Parker after Carlton Cole handed West Ham the lead. The sending off gave
Fulham a difficult task in the second half but they were level almost
immediately after the restart as Mathew Upson gifted the away side a
penalty. The centre-half clumsily brought down Diomansy Kamara inside the
area in the first minute of the half and Danny Murphy expertly dispatched
from the spot to even up the score. Just 10 minutes later Fulham were in
front, to the disbelief and dismay of the home fans, as Zoltan Gera volleyed
in at the back post on 57 minutes. The home side were reduced to long-range
efforts thereafter as Fulham defended well despite being a man down. Their
persistence finally paid off in stoppage time as substitute Stanislas saw
his deflected effort from outside the box fly past Mark Schwarzer in the
Fulham net to grab a point for the hosts. The result leaves the Hammers in
the relegation zone and will do little to lift the pressure that is building
on manager Gianfranco Zola. Upson returned to the heart of West Ham's
defence after missing the 3-1 defeat at Manchester City with a calf injury
while Zavon Hines came in for Radoslav Kovac. West Ham dominated the first
half and Fulham were somewhat fortunate not to be more than 1-0 down as they
struggled to cope with Cole up front and Alessandro Diamanti's deliveries
from the right wing. After Brede Hangeland had been booked for a clumsy
challenge on Julien Faubert, it was Diamanti's vicious free-kick that
allowed Cole to bury his header past Schwarzer at the near post.
Diamanti almost carved out a carbon copy minutes later when he curled a
corner to James Tomkins at the far post but the unmarked West Ham defender
headed wide.
Murphy's quick free-kick released Andrew Johnson into the West Ham box but
Robert Green raced off his line to close the angle and the Fulham striker
pulled his shot across goal and wide. But it was a rare opening for Fulham,
who were on the back foot. Cole almost picked out Hines after an incisive
passing move and he then sent Mark Noble through on goal with a deft touch
from Luis Jiminez's lofted pass. Parker changed the point of attack with a
driving run into the box and then saw a 30-yard drive saved after Fulham had
again failed to deal properly with another Diamanti cross from the right.
Fulham were then reduced to 10 men when Dikgacoi was sent off for an
off-the-ball clash with Parker. West Ham were playing slick, one-touch
football, which allowed them to make use of the extra man to create two more
chances before the interval. Noble's shot from inside the box was tame
before Herita Ilunga slipped Hines into space and the young winger unleashed
a sweet right-foot drive that flew just wide of the post.
West Ham were playing with such attacking verve it seemed victory was a
formality but Fulham emerged in the second-half to produce the perfect
example of how to play a man down. Chris Baird came on for Johnson to shore
up the midfield and within 30 seconds they were level as Diomansy Kamara
bustled into the area and was brought down by Upson. Murphy beat Green from
the penalty spot and West Ham began to lose their composure. Green reacted
smartly to block Paul Konchesky's low free-kick but, from the resulting
corner, Gera emerged unmarked at the far post to put Fulham head with a
cool, side-footed finish. Julien Faubert was booked for throwing the ball
away after conceding a soft free-kick and the frustration began to grow
around Upton Park. Zola made two changes just after the hour mark, with
Parker replaced by Valon Behrami and Stanislas introduced for Hines. Behrami
brought urgency to West Ham but Diamanti resorted to shooting on sight and
Stanislas opted for a speculative drive from distance that flew over the
bar. West Ham finally found the breakthrough two minutes into added time
when Stanislas worked space inside the Fulham box and saw his shot deflected
off Aaron Hughes past Schwarzer.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Zola - We lacked belief
Frustration mounts for boss after Fulham draw
Last updated: 4th October 2009
SSN
West Ham boss Gianfranco Zola feels his side lacked belief after they failed
to take advantage of 10-man Fulham. The Hammers needed an injury-time
equaliser to seal a 2-2 draw with the Cottagers as Junior Stanislas'
deflected effort earned Zola's side a point at Upton Park. Fulham debutant
Kagisho Dikgacoi saw red in the first-half for violent conduct but the hosts
failed to capitalise despite being a goal up at the time of the dismissal.
The Cottagers raced into a shock lead after coming from behind soon after
the break as the Hammers looked more like the team a man short. Stanislas'
late strike salvaged a point for West Ham as resilient Fulham's defence
finally broke down, but Zola admits he was not expecting to struggle after
the first-half dismissal. "After the first-half I was expecting different
things in the second," Zola told Sky Sports. "The first-half was really
encouraging and the way the team played the ball was very good. "The start
of the second-half was not good enough and this is not the first time that's
happened. "We were not switched on because we cannot concede goals in a game
that in my opinion was already closed. "Their second goal was again through
individual mistakes and that cost us very much. "I don't believe a game can
be won until the end. Arsenal today were losing twice and they ended up
winning 6-2 - that's the kind of belief we need to have."
The result halted a four-game run of defeats for West Ham but with their
inability to take three points after playing over half the game with an
extra man, Zola admits he has cause for concern. "I'm concerned as much as I
have to be. I know that even if we're playing good football, as we are right
now, it's not enough. "We have to make sure we convert that into points. We
are half-way there but we need to improve a few things to make sure that the
points come in."
The former Chelsea player has ruled out spending in January, insisting that
his current squad is good enough for him to work with. "I'm happy with the
squad I've got. I decide on them and I will work with them until the end and
see what happens." Teenager Stanislas, who is a product of the highly
acclaimed West Ham youth academy, came off the bench to score the equaliser
and Zola highlighted his positive approach to the game. Zola added: "I'm
pleased for him because he came on with the right attitude and made an
impact on the game."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Vinny's Fulham Report
Vinny - Sun Oct 4 2009
West Ham Online
West Ham United 2 Fulham 2
West Ham could only manage a draw against ten men Fulham in a game where we
were even lucky to get that with only a late deflected effort preventing us
from slumping to another defeat.
The point which was salvaged really does little for our cause at the wrong
end of the table and I don't know about anyone else but this just felt like
a defeat to me. I cannot work out how we managed to get ourselves in front
then have the fortune of Fulham going down to ten men only to concede two
second half goals to let Fulham get themselves in front only for an injury
time goal saving us from coming away with nothing.
'Saving us' is probably the wrong term to use because I honestly don't feel
saved from anything. I keep looking at our next three fixtures and the most
optimistic prediction I can generate is three points but even that would be
something.
Gianfranco Zola says that we are not a club in crisis but with everything
that has gone on off the pitch to now have produced our worst start in our
Premiership history you can't help but wonder where this club is headed.
I've always tried to stay optimistic and usually dislike the negative talk
which surrounds this club and has done for quite some time, but it is
getting increasingly difficult to ignore the panic button which is flashing
in front of me. It seems to be humming lightly 'push me, push me' and I am
just about at that point.
A win today would have given us that lift we needed and when we went in at
half time I was very confident that we would win the game with ease and even
score a few goals to add icing to the cake. But this cake was quite
obviously off with two Fulham goals coming within the first fifteen minutes
of the second period.
As it is, West Ham now lie second from bottom with just five points from a
possible twenty eight. Whatever way you look at it, that is bad reading and
with two tricky away trips at Stoke and Sunderland coming up with Arsenal at
Upton Park sandwiched between concern is fast becoming the only thing I am
feeling about Zola's West Ham side.
Zola made two changes to the side who were beaten at the City Of Manchester
Stadium last Monday. The Captain Matthew Upson returned to the side in place
of Manuel Da Costa who dropped to the bench. Also dropping to the bench was
Radoslav Kovac who was replaced by Zavon Hines.
This saw Luis Jimenez play more as an attacking central midfielder with
Hines going to the left hand side but being a little closer to Carlton Cole.
Valon Behrami returned to the squad from injury but had to make do with a
place on the bench.
In the Fulham side were two ex West Ham players in Paul Konchesky and John
Pantsil. Both received excellent responses from the majority of the crowd. I
chose not to participate in this love in with the opposition players, but
maybe I was just waiting for one of them to score a goal so I could applaud.
Fulham are of course managed by Roy Hodgson whom I do have a lot of time
for. What he has done at Fulham is quite amazing. He came into a side who
were destined for relegation but he somehow managed to keep them up. Not
only that he then the following season managed to get them to 7th place and
into the Europa league finishing above West Ham, Tottenham and Manchester
City.
I don't usually comment on other managers often but something about the way
Hodgson has got Fulham playing and the type of players he has brought into
the club leads me to believe that Fulham have an excellent manager at the
helm.
We started brightly with Carlton Cole bringing down a long ball forward and
hitting a shot from around twenty five yards out which went over the bar.
The opening quarter of the game was played largely in the midfield area with
both sides struggling to find space to manoeuvre.
But when Faubert was clattered by Fulham centre half Brede Hangeland on the
right hand side the home team would find their opportunity to get their
noses in front. Set pieces seem to be our main way to score goals with only
two goals from all the other games in the league coming from outfield play.
The free kick was taken by Diamanti who whipped in brilliant free kick with
pace and power to find Carlton Cole with a bullet header from a few yards
out to score his fourth goal in seven games.
Cole who was voted the WHO player of the month had now scored in every home
league game this season as he looks to cement his place in the England
squad.
A second goal should have followed shortly after when another set piece,
this time a corner kick was taken by Diamanti who found Tomkins but his
header was off target when I thought he should have actually scored. Tomkins
has missed a few chances going forward this season with the worst miss
coming away at Wigan a few weeks ago.
Fulham as an attacking force had not been in the game at all but out of
nothing they had a glorious chance and should have scored. The visitors had
won a free kick and quick thinking by Danny Murphy put Andy Johnson through
but the striker dragged his shot wide when most of the Boleyn had braced
themselves for the equaliser.
Some great play involving Hines saw a bit of a scramble in the area and the
clearance only came out as far as Scott Parker who hit a clean low shot at
goal but Mark Schwarzer was well behind it as West Ham began to get on top.
A strange incident occurred and maybe I should have written this report
after I saw it on Match of the Day but an off the ball clash between Scott
Parker and Kagisho Dikgacoi resulted first of all in the ref quickly showing
the yellow card to Scott Parker and after much discussion with the linesman
and the fourth official, Dikgacoi was given a straight red card.
The ref Phil Dowd seemed to have lost the plot during this incident as he
didn't really know what he was doing. I haven't seen the incident and have
only been told that the Fulham player put his hands in the face of Parker
but the way the ref so quickly went to his pocket to book Parker stuck me as
odd as it seemed that Dowd was sure it was Parker who was the offender.
But the sending off could only help us on our way to victory couldn't it? We
were on top anyhow and this would surely be a forgone conclusion that we
would secure this must needed win.
And this theory was only aided by the last ten minutes of the first half
when we were taking the game to Fulham and looked liked getting that second
goal sooner rather than later with Hines having the best chance when he was
played through by a delightful pass from Ilunga but his attempt to smash the
ball into the top corner only saw the shot go wide.
Still most of us went in at half time satisfied with what we had seen and
with the space that we would surely get in the second half we may be in for
some good entertainment. How deluded was that?
Fulham had to remove their main goal scoring threat in Andy Johnson due to
injury and he was replaced by defender Chris Baird. This would see Fulham
play with just one up front for the remainder of the game.
Our England centre half would surely find this an easy task to handle you
would have thought but within just a couple of minutes of the restart Upson
for some reason clumsily hauled Kamara in the area with the ref pointing to
the spot.
The linesman just a few yards away did not flag but the ref pointed to the
spot. I think the ref no matter how conclusive the decision was always going
to try and give something to Fulham as he seemed to not have wanted to send
their player off in the first place with only the linesman telling him he
must do so.
I personally thought it was a penalty and though that Upson was stupid to
challenge him like he did considering he had no support and was not central
of the goal.
The ever dependable Danny Murphy stepped up to send Robert Green the wrong
way and make our task of 'easily' winning this game a little more difficult.
I was disappointed but not despondent that we had conceded this goal as I
felt we had shown enough in the first half to get us through the game
comfortably. But we just didn't react to the goal and one could argue that
we had not even bothered to come out for the second half.
Fulham were close to scoring a second goal which really was unthinkable as
Paul Konchesky saw his free kick deflected with Robert Green having to make
a save to tip the ball around the post. No doubt if Konchesky had scored he
would have celebrated like a mad man like he did last season. The applause
from the crowd I don't think was for Green actually making the save I think
it was for Paul Konchesky's effort.
From that corner things went all very wrong when Green flapped at the cross
and missed it with Zoltan Gera on hand to knock the ball into the back of
the net to send the Fulham supporters (the measly few who had made the long
trip from West London) wild.
The atmosphere in Upton Park became very tense which was a change from just
plain awful as the Sunday syndrome again affected people's voices.
Fulham sat back and invited us onto them but even with play makers such as
Diamanti, Jimenez and Noble we offered so little and the frustration was
beginning to take its toll on the fans who could not quite believe what they
were witnessing.
A desperate shot from James Tomkins from outside the area summed up our
second half performance and although I was hoping in vain that we would
score the two goals needed to win (a draw was on the same level as defeat)
the time continued to tick away with few chances being created.
With around eighteen minutes remaining Junior Stanislas and Valon Behrami
were brought on for Zavon Hines and Scott Parker who had seen his
performance deteriorate.
Diamanti, Stanislas and Ilunga all saw shots go over the bar and with Julien
Faubert showing why we have played him at right back with his constant
dreadful crossing it seemed as though a fifth defeat in all competitions was
looming.
But as the Fulham fans were celebrating the victory in the second of four
minutes added on Junior Stanislas hit a shot which took a wicked deflection
off Aaron Hughes and flew past Schwarzer to salvage a point.
The Upton Park crowd roared the players on and were urging them to get back
to their half as quickly as possible so we could begin the quest for a
dramatic late winner but the drama nearly turned itself around as a long
ball forward saw the Fulham sub Eddie Johnson race towards Robert Green who
was favourite to make the ball first but Green smacked the ball against the
striker who looked composed when he got the ball but he managed to put his
shot wide when I believe he should have scored.
No further chances came our way and a 2-2 draw was the final result.
Player Reviews
Robert Green
Two goals conceded and one of them was down to him. The second goal from the
Konchesky corner saw the England keeper flap, miss and watch as Gera scored.
Green also should have been punished for his mistake right at the end when
he let Eddie Johnson in. Poor display.
Julien Faubert
Fulham do not play with out and out wingers so Faubert was rarely troubled
in that respect. He did have some erratic moments and his crossing into the
area was at it's very worst an a reminder of how bad he is when in those
positions. Was booked for throwing the ball at his opponent and I had
thought he might see a second yellow as he seemed to be living very
dangerously with regards to dissent.
Matthew Upson
A pretty dismal display from Upson as he seemed to find it very difficult up
against the Fulham strikers. His distribution was poor, his tackling was off
and he looked slow and immobile. Gave the penalty away with a bit of a
nonsense foul as their was really no need.
James Tomkins
Better than his centre half partner but needs to be much more composed when
in possession the ball and try and look for a pass that is attainable rather
than high hopeful balls in the vicinity of Carlton Cole.
Herita Ilunga
Got forward in support of Hines well enough throughout the game and as with
Faubert did not have to deal with a tricky winger. Still I thought Ilunga
was a little slow with and without possession and did not have that zip that
he usually plays with when going forward.
Alessandro Diamanti
Playing on the right side of midfield (and it was midfield given how deep he
was) Diamanti did well enough and was often the one who looked like making
something happen. His cross field passing was very good and he grabbed an
assist for the Cole goal with a superb free kick. I would like to see him up
front playing just off Cole.
Mark Noble
Thought he did well in the first half but in the second he was anonymous. I
thought he had gone off at one point as I had not seen him on the ball in
what seemed like an age. A little slow to make the pass when in possession
and often over looked playing it out to the left wing in favour of Faubert
and Diamanti on the right.
Scott Parker
A mixed bag from Parker who at times would look superb and others so very
poor it was shocking. That moment in the second half when he just volleyed
the ball out of play bemused me and he was rightly taken off as his
performance seemed to get worse and worse. It was a shame because at times
in the first half he was our best player.
Luis Jimenez
He was playing in centre midfield and tried to attack but seemed to just run
sideward's a lot. I can't fathom where his best position is and what type of
player he actually is. I had been under the impression that he was going to
play up front (or just off the striker) yet he hasn't shown that he like to
shoot or play through balls or tackle. We can't afford to carry players like
this when we need to scrap and I think against Stoke he should find himself
on the bench.
Zavon Hines
Bright at times and I was sure he was going to get that first Premiership
goal when we went in at half time but he just didn't get involved in the
second half. Should have buried his chance in the first half when put
through by Ilunga. Would also like to seem him play more central and not on
the left wing.
Carlton Cole
Battled away against multiple defenders and scored yet again. At least
someone is doing his job.
Subs Used
Valon Behrami (on for Parker 72 mins)
Put in a lot of effort and did a lot of running when he came on. I felt we
looked a better team with him on the pitch and hopefully come Stoke he will
be in the starting line up.
Junior Stanislas (on for Hines 72 mins)
Still no sighting of him beating a player but credit to Stanislas who with
him on the pitch we looked more dangerous and he was always willing to
shoot. It was one of those shots which go us the equaliser and hopefully
Stanislas will get the goal which would be his third of the season.
Subs Not Used: Kurucz, Spector, Da Costa, Nouble, Payne.
Bookings: Parker (4th of the season), Faubert, Jimenez
Man Of The Match: Alessandro Diamanti
Attendance: 32612
Overall
Only getting a point at home against Fulham is disappointing most of the
time but to only get a point when you have taken the lead is even worse. To
then only get a point when we had taken the lead and Fulham had gone down to
ten men is really not good enough.
The Premiership is an unforgiving league and if you look at our next six
games, maybe it is just me but I am not too confident. What is even more
worrying is that when we have all focussed our attention on us not scoring
enough goals it is at the other end where the problems lie.
I was not a disappointed as some to see James Collins leave. I thought for
the amount of money we received it wasn't a bad deal but I'll hold my hands
up and say since his departure we have looked pretty awful at the back.
Of course having not replaced Lucas Neill doesn't help but we are shipping
far too many sloppy goals (and they really are) and this is why we are
struggling. We need to get a settled team and start playing the flowing
passing game that Zola had us playing last season. Valon Behrami will be
integrual to this and we need to get him in the team as soon as possible.
Who this will see drop to the bench for me has to be Jimenez. We have a
creative play maker in Diamanti and with Stoke next we will need as many of
players to scrap as possible and Jimenez has not shown me he can do this
yet.
Next Game - Stoke City (a)
Last season a battling performance saw a Diego Tristan goal give us a
victory. This time around Stoke are better although still basing their game
on long throws and scrappy football. I think this will be a very difficult
game to get anything out of and most teams are happy to come away with a
point from the Britannia.
The trouble is we need all three.
Zola's View
"To be honest, I wasn't very happy, because after the first half I was
expecting to be at least another goal up considering the chances that we
created. I wondered that the game wasn't finished.
"I didn't like something in the game. I smelled something wrong because it
looked too easy. We were passing the ball fantastically well and creating
chances, but not scoring and that's not good.
"In the second half, it's not the first time we've started a little bit
sloppy. They got back in the game, then scored a second goal and, after
that, it's normal that it was difficult because Fulham are very, very good
when they have to defend. It was very difficult for us to get the draw but,
at the end of the day, it was a fair result."
"What was poor was that, when we conceded a goal, the whole team was like it
lost faith and lost belief, and that's what I really hate. On Sunday,
Arsenal were losing twice and in the end they beat Blackburn 6-2, so that's
the sort of belief we have to keep.
"What happens is that you keep playing your own football and then, at the
end of the game, we'll see what is going to happen. I don't like that kind
of attitude. We have to react and we have to be stronger. We can't let this
happen after one goal again. I made those points in the dressing room.
"I don't think this was our worst performance. The first half, quality-wise,
was OK. It's just that we don't have that consistency throughout the game
that will give us points instead of draws or defeats.
"The players are really trying very hard and I don't think it's a matter of
commitment - the commitment if fantastic from everybody. We just need to
improve our focus. At the end of the day, a game is made by details and if
you don't pay attention to those details you will keep dropping points. It's
as simple as that. We have to raise our attention and I will be working on
that."
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HAMMERS TAKEOVER BACK ON
News Of The World
Birmingham bosses David Gold and David Sullivan line up £50m move
By ROB SHEPHERD, 03/10/2009
THE £100million takeover of West Ham by David Gold and David Sullivan is
back on. Now the sale of Birmingham City to Chinese tycoon Carson Yeung has
been rubber-stamped, Gold and Sullivan have the funds to buy the Hammers.
But the pair will only make a formal move if the Icelandic bankers who own
the London club are realistic about the selling price. The Essex-based pair
backed off last month when it was indicated that a £120m cash deal was
wanted. At the time, West Ham's owners were hopeful of creating an auction
but no other firm bidders emerged. The asking price has now dropped to £100m
and I understand that takes into account about £50m of debt. So Gold and
Sullivan, who sold Birmingham for £80m, could land the Hammers for in the
region of £50m in equity. CB Holdings, an off-shoot of Straumur - which took
over the club after the collapse of another bank, Landsbanki - were holding
out for an economic upturnin the hope of increasing the price. But key
creditors in Iceland are now pushing to have their debts settled. Gold and
Sullivan have been biding their time but the pair are now poised to make
their move and then radically overhaul the Hammers. That would be welcome
news for manager Gianfranco Zola, who has become increasingly frustrated at
the constraints he has been put under since being appointed as boss 12
months ago. Zola has been willing to embrace a new "project" to develop the
club's best youngsters but his relationship with West Ham technical director
Gianluca Nani has become strained. Nani is in charge of transfers but Zola
was bemused when the club sold Craig Bellamy for £14m to Manchester City
last January.
West Ham then quickly shelled out a reported £9m for untried, Ugandan-born
German Under-21 international Savio. Despite a rave billing, Savio flopped
and has since been involved in a swap deal with Fiorentina that has brought
defender Manuel da Costa to the club in a deal that was worth around £3m.
Neither Zola nor assistant boss Steve Clarke particularly rate Da Costa and
were upset that the club sold defender James Collins to Aston Villa for £5m.
That enabled Nani to bring in attacking midfielder Luis Jimenez on loan from
Inter Milan and striker Alessandro Diamanti from Livorno. Zola has not been
keen on confrontation but I understand Clarke has had several heated debates
with Nani over the logic behind some of the signings. Zola is cutting an
increasingly frustrated figure on the sidelines at Hammers matches these
days. And after Monday's 3-1 defeat at Manchester City, which locked the
Hammers into the bottom three with just four points from six games, Zola
read the riot act to his players. He regards today's clash against fellow
strugglers Fulham as a match that could shape the club's season. Zola said:
"Preparing for this game is like a cup final for us. At Manchester City on
Monday, it was the worst we have played all season. We have to improve."
The manager then vowed to act with a firmer fist. He added: "I am going to
be more focused and demanding of the players. I am going to be on top of it
until I get it right."
Skipper Matthew Upson is set to return today following a calf injury. Clarke
said: "You need all your experienced players. Matthew has been good for us
since Gianfranco and myself came to the club."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
WEST HAM 2, FULHAM 2
Junior to the rescue for Hammers
News Of The World
04/10/2009
JUNIOR STANISLAS popped up with a late leveller to deny ten-man Fulham a
fabulous victory at Upton Park. West Ham started the London derby well as
Carlton Cole enhanced his reputation with an early opener but the Cottagers
improved despite seeing Kagisho Dikgacoi sent off 41 minutes into his first
start for the club. Just when victory seemed assured, after goals from Danny
Murphy and Zoltan Gera, youth product Stanislas made it 2-2 in the dying
seconds. Powerhouse centre forward Cole proved a real handful for the Fulham
defence as he continues to look an attractive option for Fabio Capello's
World Cup plans. With quarter of an hour gone, he headed the Hammers in
front at the near post from an Alessandro Diamanti free-kick. It was no more
than the hosts deserved and Cole was at the forefront of most of their good
work. Mark Schwarzer earned his pay with a good stop to deny Scott Parker
and his day was about to get busier when Dikgacoi was rightly sent off. Roy
Hodgson's recent recruit was involved in an off-the-ball incident with
Parker and, after showing the Hammers midfielder a yellow card, referee Phil
Dowd flashed red at the South African. Hodgson raged at the decision but
there is no doubt it was the right one as Dikgacoi raised his hands. Zavon
Hines almost doubled the East Londoners' lead when smashing a right-footed
effort just off target. But, with Andy Johnson making way for Chris Baird,
Fulham reorganised and were quickly level at the start of the second half.
Hodgson resisted attempts to farm out Diomansy Kamara on loan recently and
he worried Matthew Upson enough to earn a penalty when being sent crashing
to ground by the England defender. Murphy kept his cool to shoot past Rob
Green for his second goal of the week. Incredibly, the 10 men went in front
as ex-Hammer Paul Konchesky's free kick forced Green into conceding a
corner. Gera was afforded too much space from the flag-kick and calmly
snapped up the chance, side-footing into the net. Valon Behrami's
introduction as a substitute boosted Gianfranco Zola's side but rookie
Premier League operators Diamanti and substitute Stanislas snatched at
chances. Deep into injury time, Stanislas got it right with a shot that
deflected off Aaron Hughes to beat Schwarzer and at least stop the rot for
the Hammers. Had West Ham been beaten for a fifth game in a row, and against
a team playing with a man short for more than a half, there would have been
serious questions being raised around Upton Park.
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West Ham United 2 Fulham 2: match report
Read a full match report of the Premier League game between West Ham United
and Fulham at Upton Park on Sunday Oct 4 2009.
Telegraph.co.uk
By John Ley
Published: 5:40PM BST 04 Oct 2009
West Ham United stole a point with a dramatic goal in added time against
10-man Fulham at Upton Park, when substitute Junior Stanislas saw a late
effort deflect off Aaron Hughes. Although Carlton Cole gave West Ham an
early lead Fulham, who had debutant Kagisho Dikgacoi sent off in
controversial circumstances, responded with an early second half penalty,
from Danny Murphy, before Zoltan Gera claimed what seemed likely to be the
58th minute winner, only for Stanislas to steal a late goal. West Ham took
the lead in the 17th minute and, predictably it came from their leading
scorer, with Cole claiming his fourth goal of the season. Brede Hangeland
conceded a free-kick – he was booked for the foul on Julien Faubert – and
Alessandro Diamanti, who impressed with his accurate deliveries, presented
Cole with an easy opportunity with a perfectly weighted free-kick from the
right. Cole met the ball at the near post with a simple header and, with
just a further three minutes played, the Italian sent a troublesome corner
from the right and defender James Tomkins should have added a second goal
but his downward header flew narrowly wide of the left post. Fulham
responded briefly when a through-ball found Andrew Johnson and the striker,
under pressure from Matthew Upson, pushed the ball wide when he could have
equalised. But at this stage West Ham were in control and Cole came close to
a second, after 34 minutes when, after meeting Scott Parker's ball, the
England striker scuffed the ball wide. And Parker followed that with an
attempt of his own, his low half volley forcing Mark Schwarzer to stretch to
save. But the game turned on a controversial decision, by referee Phil Dowd,
when he sent off Fulham midfielder Dikgacoi. The South African international
became entangled with Parker and the pair appeared to confront each other
head-t-head then push each other in the face. Both were cautioned but after
much eliberation and consultation with his assistant linesman and fourth
official, Dowd showed Dikgacoi the red card. Understandably, the decision
infuriated Roy Hodgson, the Fulham manager, who, at half time, followed
Parker down the tunnel, seeking an explanation.
But if Fulham, who took Andrew Johnson off at the interval, felt there had
been an injustice they wasted little time in responding. Inside the first
minute of the second half Dowd awarded the visitors a penalty after Matthew
Upson fouled Diomansy Kamara. Murphy converted the spot-kick confidently to
bring Fulham back on level terms. And Fulham appeared inspired. Paul
Konchesky almost scored when his free-kick took a deflection and Robert
Green had to tip the ball to safety. And from the 58th minute corner, from
Konchesky, Gera arrived at the far post to side-foot the ball home. The game
was into the second minute of added time when Stanislas's shot struck the
knee of Hughes and rebounded beyond Schwarzer.
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Junior Stanislas spares West Ham United's blushes
West Ham 2 Fulham 2
The Times
Gary Jacob
West Ham United rarely seem to be far away from controversy, but most of the
drama was on the pitch this time. Some mediocre football was eclipsed by a
riotous finale in which a deflected shot from Junior Stanislas rescued a
point for the home side in the second minute of stoppage time against
Fulham's ten men.
It was a scrappy but eventful encounter that finished amid boos from the
West Ham supporters and left doubts over the team's strength, capacity and
desire to pull clear of a relegation scrap and of the performance of two
England players. Robert Green and Matthew Upson were guilty of naivety and
foolishness as Fulham came from behind after the dismissal of Kagisho
Dikgacoi.
Even the normally restrained Roy Hodgson, the Fulham manager, was seething
as he confronted Scott Parker for his part in that incident shortly before
the break. Initially both players were shown a yellow card after clashing,
but Parker angrily gesticulated that he was elbowed by his opponent. Phil
Dowd, the referee, was called over by Darren Cann, his assistant, who said
that Dikgacoi had thrust his hand and head into the face of Parker. The
South Africa midfield player was shown the red card on his first league
start after a two-minute delay, but the argument was still raging long after
the game.
Parker will miss the match away to Stoke City a week on Saturday after
picking up his fifth yellow card. "I was told that it was violent conduct,"
Hodgson said. "Dikgacoi is the least violent boy you will come across. It
was naivety on his part.
"I come from a generation where violent conduct is violent. I can't get my
head around two players going nose to nose and one is sent off."
Replays suggested that the referee was right and, with Fulham disrupted and
disjointed, Mark Noble and Zavon Hines wasted several opportunities to
extend the lead, given to them when Carlton Cole headed in Alessandro
Diamanti's free kick.
But, if anything, Dowd's next significant decision — to award Fulham a
penalty — was the turning point of the game. Upson needlessly wrestled with
Diomansy Kamara after a ball was played over the top of the defence. The
West Ham defender's rustiness may have been down to his return from a calf
injury, but it also reflects his indecisive form since he failed to obtain
the move he wanted in the summer.
Danny Murphy converted the penalty and Fulham then took a stranglehold when
Green missed his punch from a corner and Zoltan Gera flicked in.
Fulham controlled possession, slowed the pace and expertly played on the
break. West Ham are not the first team to make an extra man seem a
disadvantage in breaking down their opponents, but they have far greater
concerns than being unsettled by Kamara's pace and aggression. There was
little energy and penetration and too many eye-of-the-needle passes were
smothered.
Mark Schwarzer, the Fulham goalkeeper, had few meaningful shots to save,
until Stanislas's drive caught the knee of Aaron Hughes and deflected in.
There was still time for Green almost to handed Fulham victory when he raced
out and struck Eddie Johnson with an attempted clearance. The Fulham forward
picked up the loose ball, cut inside, but squeezed his shot wide with only
one defender guarding the goal.
A flat atmosphere may have contributed to West Ham being unable to match the
fighting spirit demanded by Gianfranco Zola. They have made their worst
start since they went down in 2003 and the manager was left to question
their attitude.
"The team looked like it lost faith and belief after we conceded," Zola
said. "The players need to improve their focus. I smelt something wrong when
we were passing the ball well, creating chances and not scoring."
West Ham (4-3-2-1): R Green 5 J Faubert 5 J Tomkins 6 M Upson 5 H Ilunga 5 M
Noble 6 S Parker 6 L Jiménez 5 A Diamanti 6 Z Hines 7 C Cole 6 Substitutes:
J Stanislas (for Hines, 71min), V Behrami (for Parker, 71). Not used: P
Kurucz, J Spector, M Da Costa, F Nouble, J Payne. Next: Stoke City (a).
Fulham (4-4-2): M Schwarzer 6 J Paintsil 6 A Hughes 7 B Hangeland 6 P
Konchesky 6 Z Gera 7 K Dikgacoi 5 D Murphy 8 C Dempsey 6 D Kamara 7 A
Johnson 5 Substitutes: C Baird 5 (for A Johnson, 46min), E Johnson (for
Kamara, 82), B H Riise (for Dempsey, 84). Not used: P Zuberbühler, S Kelly,
E Nevland, J Greening. Next: Hull City (h).
Referee: P Dowd Attendance: 32,612
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Good fortune can't hide Hammers' failings
West Ham United 2 Fulham 2
By Clive White
Independent.co.uk
Monday, 5 October 2009
Whatever West Ham are suffering from it isn't bad luck – well, not if
yesterday's match is anything to go by.
Fortunate to see the opposition reduced to 10 men by the controversial
sending-off of Fulham's Kagisho Dikgacoi in the first half they then pinched
a point they hardly deserved with an injury-time deflected equaliser from
substitute Junior Stanislas. Fittingly, it wasn't enough to lift them out of
the bottom three.
Up until the moment Stanislas' shot struck Aaron Hughes' knee before looping
over Mark Schwarzer in goal, the Hammers had been staring at a third defeat
in all three home league games this season. Losing to Liverpool and
Tottenham may have been just about excusable, but against a Fulham side that
have struggled to rediscover last season's momentum, who were a goal as well
a man down by the end of the first half, surely they should be good enough
to register a first home win. Alas, no.
Gianfranco Zola was disappointed with his side's response to Fulham's
equaliser in the first minute of the second half. "The whole team lost faith
and belief," he said. "I don't like that kind of attitude, I really hate
it."
It was the dismissal of Dikgacoi for either an elbow or head-butt – no one
was too sure – in the face of West Ham's Scott Parker that really irked
Fulham's manager Roy Hodgson – a little strange because his team were a
better side with 10 men than 11. "I come from a generation where violent
conduct is violent," he said. "I have a problem getting my head around two
players nose-to-nose and one of them is sent off for violent conduct."
It was unfortunate for Dikgacoi that the referee Philip Dowd chose to
consult one of his assistants rather than the watching American wrestling
legend "Stone Cold" Steve Austin. Wrestlers know a thing about phony wars
and no doubt Austin would have put him wise. It was only after protests from
Parker, incensed about being shown a yellow card for his part in the
bust-up, that Dowd conferred with his linesman and came to his decision.
Zola said he "smelt" something was wrong early on – "it was too easy". Maybe
it was the sight of Carlton Cole heading West Ham ahead after 16 minutes.
The Hammers had lost every match in which Cole had scored this season, four
in all. Even so, the big man did well to beat the even bigger Brede
Hangeland to the near-post header after Alessandro Diamanti floated in the
free-kick.
Zola's terrible premonition started to unravel a minute after half-time when
Matthew Upson was adjudged to have fouled Diomansy Kamara and Danny Murphy
converted the penalty. Ten minutes later, Hangeland atoned for his earlier
error when he stood his ground as Paul Konchesky's corner came over to give
Zoltan Gera a simple far-post conversion.
West Ham United (4-1-4-1): Green; Faubert, Tomkins, Upson, Ilunga; Parker
(Behrami, 71); Diamanti, Noble, Jimenez, Hines (Stanislas, 71); Cole.
Substitutes not used: Spector, Da Costa, Nouble, Payne, Kurucz (gk).
Fulham (4-4-2): Schwarzer; Paintsil, Hughes, Hangeland, Konchesky; Gera,
Murphy, Dikgacoi, Dempsey (Helge Riise, 84); A Johnson (Baird, h-t), Kamara
(E Johnson, 81). Substitutes not used: Kelly, Nevland, Greening, Zuberbuhler
(gk).
Bookings: West Ham: Parker, Faubert. Sending-off: Fulham: Dikgacoi.
Referee: P Dowd (Stoke-on-Trent)
Man of match: Kamara
Attendance: 32612.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham 2 Fulham 2 (Home)
Posted by Billy Blagg
ESPN
Well thanks, West Ham. I have been telling all and sundry this week that the
Hammers position in the bottom three was mainly down to the vagaries of the
fixture list, and that our real direction would be revealed when we played
Fulham. On this showing though, I'd have to admit that direction may be
backwards!
One up against ten men with only a last gasp equaliser to spare the blushes,
is really not good enough at this stage. More worringly, the lack of onfield
leadership, defensive mistakes, bad luck and positional confusion is merely
giving ammunition to neutrals and pessimistic fans who sense that a season
long fight against relegation is the best we can hope for. It should have
all been so different though.
Against the Cottagers, West Ham started well with Carlton Cole hitting
superbly on the volley and just over the bar virtually from the kick-off.
Cole has a good record against our West London neighbours and it was no
surprise when our centre-forward powered in a Diamanti free kick just after
the quarter hour mark, as the Italian had caused constant problems from the
wing and Cole had already proved a handful to the Fulham defence.
Another Diamanti cross, this time from a corner, found an unmarked Tomkins
who headed just wide when he could have done better and it was the Italian
again who set up another chance which saw a Parker drive saved. It was all
West Ham at this stage and the situation looked even better when Fulham had
a man sent off on 41 minutes when a scuffle broke out between Parker and
debut man Dikgacoi. The MOTD2 team later on said the incident would be
'laughed at if it took place in a pub' but you have to wonder what type of
pubs Adrian Chiles hangs about in, if raising your hands to someone's face
and pushing your head forward to within inches of an opponent is not
considered threatening behaviour. Whatever your views on flashpoints like
this, against a macho background where no real harm is done, the rules are
quite clear and I, for one, think football's stand against the type of
behaviour that is - or at least should be - unacceptable on the street is to
be applauded. Roy Hodgson, a manager I admire and respect, may think the
punishment was harsh but accepting the Premiership equivalent of pulling
someone away with a cry of "Don't do it Kag - he's not worth it" will simply
not do anymore.
With the Hammers expected to pile on the pressure in the second half, it
came as something of a shock to find Fulham level within two minutes of the
restart. Matthew Upson defended poorly against Kamara and brought the man
down in an untidy defensive play. Danny Murphy tucked the penalty away,
sending Green in the opposite direction, and Fulham were back in a match
they should have been out of. Green had to be alert to deny a Konchesky
free-kick, but the former Hammer defender and West Ham fan took the
resulting corner and saw Gera slot home easily after Rob Green made a hash
when attempting to come for the ball. 2-1 down and the home fans were left
scratching their heads and increasingly getting agitated as the Hammers
continued to flounder against a team now playing just one man up.
Zola brought on Stanislas and Behrami on the hour and the latter, who should
surely be a definite for the first team when he is fit, at least brought a
degree of urgency to the proceedings. Even so, West Ham looked out of ideas
until, with minutes remaining, Stanislas slashed in a shot which took a
deflection to fly past Schwarzer in the Fulham goal. Even then though, West
Ham were lucky, with everyone up for a final push, Fulham broke and Green
raced from his goal to clear a through ball which ricocheted off him to
leave substitute Eddie Johnson with a virtual open goal as the Hammers
defence poured back and Green tried to recover, fortunately it all looked
too much for Johnson who steered it wide to leave the Hammers fans breathing
a sigh of relief.
As the whistle blew, Upton Park was left to rue both a missed chance against
a ten-man side but also forced to consider a late escape and wonder what
Zola can do from here. The lack of leadership in the side is a concern and,
while most pundits seem to wonder where the goals will come from, it's the
defensive frailities that are worrying fans. Most feel the management team
need to look at the way we play and consider if we are getting the best from
the players available. Perhaps the best news might be if the club's
financial plight is sorted out in light of the rumoured takeover that was
featured heavily in the Sunday press and the whole place is given a shot in
the arm - not to mention an injection of fresh talent in the transfer
window.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham kid Holmar Orn Eyjolfsson makes Cheltenham breakthrough
05.10.09 | tribalfootball.com
West Ham United youngster Holmar Orn Eyjolfsson has made his breakthrough at
Cheltenham Town. Eyjolfsson joined Cheltenham on-loan and made his debut on
the weekend.
The youngster made a fine debut for Cheltenham Town, helping the Robins to a
1-1 draw with big-spending Notts County.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Birmingham powerbrokers encouraged in West Ham buyout talks
05.10.09 | tribalfootball.com
Birmingham City pair David Gold and David Sullivan are ready to move for
West Ham United. The News of the World says the sale of Birmingham City to
Chinese tycoon Carson Yeung has been rubber-stamped, Gold and Sullivan have
the funds to buy the Hammers. But the pair will only make a formal move if
the Icelandic bankers who own the London club are realistic about the
selling price. The Essex-based pair backed off last month when it was
indicated that a £120m cash deal was wanted. At the time, West Ham's owners
were hopeful of creating an auction but no other firm bidders emerged. The
asking price has now dropped to £100m and I understand that takes into
account about £50m of debt.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Capello not ready to drop West Ham keeper Green just yet
05.10.09 | tribalfootball.com
England boss Fabio Capello isn't ready to hand No1 status to fit-gain
Portsmouth goalkeeper David James. The Mail on Sunday says it is understood
that Capello will monitor both James and West Ham keeper Robert Green in
training and will not automatically revert to the 39-year-old Portsmouth
keeper for the final qualifying games against the Ukraine and Belarus.
Capello is particularly hampered by the fact that James' performances are
difficult to monitor at present given the parlous state of Portsmouth, which
means any goalkeeper would struggle to impress.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham determined to keep hold of Upson
05.10.09 | tribalfootball.com
West Ham United are determined to keep hold of defender Matthew Upson. The
Mail on Sunday says the club are determined to hang on to Upson. He is set
to return for today's crucial derby against Fulham after a fortnight out.
Having sold James Collins to Aston Villa and lost Lucas Neill to Everton,
the Hammers are keen to throw as much money as they can at Upson to keep the
England defender at Upton Park. "You need all your experienced players but
especially defenders," said assistant manager Steve Clarke. "Matthew's form
got him in the England team and it would be good if we could tie him down to
a long contract. "We are creating more chances than last season but maybe
we've lost more goals and are not as compact as we used to be."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham No2 Clarke eases expectations for Hines
04.10.09 | tribalfootball.com
West Ham United No2 Steve Clarke hopes fans do not expect too much from
Zavon Hines. England Under-21 coach Stuart Pearce called him up for next
week's game with Macedonia after Hines gave Liverpool's Jamie Carragher a
hard time in the Premier League last month. But the 20-year-old was put back
on the bench for West Ham's most recent game, the 3-1 defeat at Manchester
City on Monday night, and Clarke made no promises he would start in Sunday's
Upton Park derby with fellow strugglers Fulham.
He said: "You have to look at the bigger picture with younger players - we
have a duty to protect them. "Zavon came off the bench against Manchester
City and looked lively again. He will be involved at the weekend. "He has
come from nowhere in a short space of time and we have to protect him rather
than throw him in the first team and hope every game he is going to be
fantastic."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Clarke can't say if West Ham have gone backwards
04.10.09 | tribalfootball.com
West Ham United No2 Steve Clarke can't say if they've gone backwards this
season. The Scot insisted it was far too early to judge whether the Hammers
are now going backwards under Gianfranco Zola, his former team-mate at
Chelsea. He said: "You have to ask at the end of the season whether you have
been successful. "Last year, finishing where we did was a reasonable success
but I want to aim higher than that and win trophies. "I was fortunate to win
a few at Chelsea and I enjoyed the feeling."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Departing Birmingham director Sullivan denies West Ham talks
05.10.09 | tribalfootball.com
Departing Birmingham City director David Sullivan insists he's not planning
a takeover of West Ham United. Sullivan is to formally stand down as a
Birmingham director after selling his stake in the club to Hong Kong
businessman Carson Yeung. Sullivan has been linked with a move to buy West
Ham but he said: "I'm not in negotiation with anybody. Until I am out of
Birmingham, nothing. I do love football, but the problem is when you look
around most clubs are in such a mess."
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