WHUFC.com
The weekend goalscorer Hayden Mullins is confident that West Ham United are
set for an upturn in fortunes
03.11.2008
Hayden Mullins has spoken of the determination in the squad to return to
winning ways for manager Gianfranco Zola.
At Middlesbrough on Saturday, the 29-year-old midfielder's first goal in two
years had looked like giving the club a much-needed three points after four
defeats until Mido's cruel late equaliser. "I was very happy to get off the
mark," he said. "It's been a long time since I scored a goal so I was very
happy with that, but the three points would have been more important."
Mullins has had to wait for his chance this season but has made the most of
injuries to Mark Noble and Valon Behrami. The club's second longest-serving
first-teamer after Matthew Etherington is not one for complaining about his
lot. "You've just got to keep ticking over ... when I'm asked to go and
play, I'm going to do my best." He did just that in Saturday's draw, which
was harsh on the visitors, after a dynamic team display.
"Knowing that the manager is doing his best, all the players are working so
hard for him," Mullins said. "He's a brilliant manager and brings a lot to
the side. We're just disappointed for everything that we've been through.
The last four results have not been good enough, so that's why we wanted to
come up [to the Riverside] and win.
"We knew it was going to be hard because they are a good side, but we
created a lot of chances and are disappointed to come away with only a
point. We were after the second one. We really needed another one, as it
proved, so we're disappointed. We knew they were going to come at us in the
second half and hit us with everything they had, which is what they did."
Mullins added that the players "are just lacking that little bit of luck at
the moment" but that staying positive "is all you can do really". He added:
"We had two tough games against Arsenal and Man United and we knew that it
was going to be very difficult, but the manager has come in every week and
is still smiling and is bringing all his experience on to the training
pitch. That's brilliant for all the boys and we just want to repay him."
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Spence to face Germany
WHUFC.com
Promising young defender Jordan Spence is set to lead England U19s in a
high-profile friendly with Germany
03.11.2008
Jordan Spence has a mouth-watering Under-19 international friendly to look
forward to later this month when England take on Germany in Colchester.
The 18-year-old, who is set to get another reserve-team run-out at Tottenham
Hotspur this evening, has been named in Brian Eastick's 18-man squad for the
match on Tuesday 18 November. The Young Lions will face a stiff test against
the reigning U19 continental champions but are on a high after reaching next
spring's Elite round final qualifying stage for the 2009 finals. Spence is
England captain at this level, having previously worn the armband for the
U16, U17 and U18s.
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Tristan plays in reserves defeat
WHUFC.com
Spanish striker Diego Tristan got a welcome first appearance for West Ham
United on Monday night
03.11.2008
Diego Tristan has got his first competitive 45 minutes under his belt for
West Ham United in a reserve derby at Tottenham Hotspur on Monday night.
The Spanish striker was an unused substitute for Gianfranco Zola's first
team on Saturday away to Middlesbrough and will hope to be in contention for
this weekend's visit of Everton. He had a lively half, playing at the centre
of a 4-3-3 with Daniel Kearns and Kyel Reid looking to support whenever
possible. In a tight contest, chances were at a premium but he did get one
shot away late in the half - only to see it blocked and receive a kick to
his foot in the process.
Tristan made way at half-time to be replaced by Balint Bajner, fresh from
his hat-trick for the Under-18s at the weekend. Kyel Reid was perhaps the
most impressive of the visiting players but the home side - prompted by Adel
Taarabt, Hossam Ghaly and Kevin-Prince Boateng - proved too strong. Charlie
Daniels scored both Spurs' goals in the space of six second-half minutes.
The first was a close-range tap-in after Street had parried Boateng's header
and the second on the hour was a drive from distance.
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Spurs Reserves 2-0 Reserves FT
WHUFC.com
West Ham United were in reserve-team action on Monday night away against
Tottenham Hotspur
03.11.2008
Barclays Premier Reserve League South
Tottenham Hotspur v West Ham United
Full time: 2-0
Alex Dyer's men are beaten but can hold their heads up high, having come up
against a strong Tottenham Hotspur side featuring several players with
first-team experience. Diego Tristan got a welcome first 45 minutes in a
claret and blue shirt while Kyel Reid also impressed.
90min - Another Lopez header, again from Edgar's cross.
90min - Stokes is cautioned for a foul on Boateng.
90min - Lopez is fouled 30 yards from goal out on the left wing. Edgar takes
the free-kick and Lopez rises superbly to flick goalwards. It is just
creeping in under the bar until Cesar Sanchez manages to get a palm to it.
From the corner, Lopez again gets their first but this time sees it go just
over.
88min - Daniels, on a hat-trick, has a go from long range. This time, he his
high and wide.
86min - Bajner is replaced by Anthony Edgar.
85min - Bajner is down with a knock and the stretcher is being carried on.
84min - West Ham United are starting to play some passes around. Lopez has
gone out to the left wing from his central position and is penalised for a
foul. He has not stopped running all evening.
81min - Bajner goes close with a flicked header from Harvey's cross. The No7
did well to find space to the left of goal.
77min - The tireless Reid is replaced by Oliver Lee. Reid was the only West
Ham United player on view with Premier League experience and can be pleased
with his efforts.
76min - Fraser-Allen feels the force of a strong Joe Widdowson challenge.
73min - Stokes is playing a captain's part, urging and cajoling his team on.
Tottenham have a free-kick which Daniels takes. The double goalscorer
watches the ball fizz just wide of Street's right-hand upright.
71min - Kearns just lifts his shot over the bar after Bajner had beaten
Cesar Sanchez to the ball and knocked down.
68min - Another chance for Reid - who looks the liveliest of the visiting
players - but he cannot test the keeper.
66min - Street saves well with his feet after Spence lost his balance on the
sodden turf. Good reaction stop that.
64min - The rain is still falling here at the home of Leyton Orient. West
Ham United are pushing hard to get back in the game but are finding their
hosts difficult to break down just at the minute.
62min - A good block by N'Gala denies Hutton.
60min - GOAL! - Daniels smashes in his second of the night with a firm shot
from the edge of the penalty area. Street could do little about that.
56min - Outstanding play by Reid on the left wing. He got away from three
markers in the left-back position, surged forward and eventually was brought
down 18 yards from goal. From the free-kick, he gets the ball again but
cannot direct his shot on target.
54min - GOAL! - Corner to Spurs although the ball appeared to touch a home
player last. N'Gala and Spence cannot get the ball away and Daniels is able
to smash into the net from close range after Street's brilliant parry from
Boateng's header fell into his path.
52min - Boateng breaks on the right away from N'Gala. The No10 teed up
Fraser-Allen but his shot soared over the crossbar.
50min - Boateng tries his luck from distance but it went wide.
48min - Ghaly forces a good save from Street. Corner to Spurs, which Harvey
does well to head away.
47min - Dorian Dervitte heads for goal but the referee spotted an
infringement. It was cleared off the line anyway.
46min - Taarabt and Rocha have been replaced by David Hutton and Takura
Mtandari. Tristan has made way for the visitors, with Balint Bajner coming
on in his place.
Half-time: 0-0
45min - Reid fires over after cutting in from the right. Tristan had begun
the move by a neat piece of skill to get away from Maghoma. Cesar Sanchez
has been the quieter of the two keepers though and was not troubled again.
43min - We get back under way and Reid is waved on after a couple of minutes
attention.
40min - Reid is down for treatment after a strong challenge by Maghoma.
39min - Tristan feels the force of a strong challenge by Jacques Maghoma
just as he was shaping to shoot. The No9 had done well before that to work
an opening.
37min - Tom Harvey gets in a good challenge in central midfield.
35min - Reid does tremendously well to challenge Gilberto in the right-back
position. It is some battle between these two this evening.
33min - Boateng shoots wide after some good play along the left wing
involving Gilberto. Street was not worried.
30min - Tristan is up against Ricardo Rocha tonight. He is certainly being
tested but has been bright so far.
29min - The referee has a word with Ricardo Rocha after a foul on Kyel Reid.
The No11 has a chance 30 yards from goal but fires over.
28min - Taarabt and Hossam Ghaly combine on a free-kick but the West Ham
United defence are not troubled.
26min - Midway through the first half and both teams are having good
possession in midfield. Spurs have come the closest while Tristan has yet to
be given a sight of goal.
24min - Tristan twice drops deep to link up with his midfield. Good play by
the Spaniard but Spurs eventually get the danger away.
21min - Spurs have the ball in the net but it is ruled out for offside. Adam
Street spilled Gilberto's fierce shot and Charlie Daniels tapped in, only
for the assistant referee to raise his flag.
21min - N'Gala is tracking Taarabt any time he comes near the penalty area.
He is alongside Jordan Spence at the back this evening.
18min - Reid flashes a low shot wide after cutting in from the right wing.
17min - Stokes does brilliantly to tackle back after a quick break down the
left by Kyle Fraser-Allen.
12min - Kearns nods back to Tristan but Spurs get the danger away.
10min - Good tackle by captain Tony Stokes. He is playing in a withdrawn
holding midfield role tonight.
8min - Brazil defender Gilberto whips a ball in from the left that Boateng
meets. The shot is wayward though.
6min - It is a competitive derby so far with plenty of strong tackles in
midfield. Adel Taarabt is looking good in centre midfield for the home side.
3min - A great low save by Adam Street after neat build-up play finished
with a shot by Kevin Prince-Boateng. Corner to Spurs but Street clears. On
the counterattack, Reid races 60 yards and nearly picks out Tristan, who had
done well to get up in support. Kearns and Tony Stokes both got shots away,
but the former's effort was blocked and the latter's went wide.
2min - Tristan is playing through the middle with Kyel Reid out to the left
and Daniel Kearns - the bright young Northern Irish youth international - on
the right.
1min - Diego Tristan gets us under way on his first official run-out in a
West Ham United shirt.
KICK-OFF
Tottenham Hotspur: Sanchez, Stalteri, Gilberto, Maghoma, Dervite, Ricardo
Rocha (Mtandari 46), Fraser-Allen, Ghaly, Taarabt (Hutton 46), Boateng,
Daniels
Subs: Butcher, Hutchins, Berbiche,
West Ham United: Street, O'Neill, N'Gala, Spence, Widdowson, Kearns, Harvey,
Reid, Lopez, Stokes, Tristan (Bajner 46)
Subs: Loveday, Lee, Brooks, Edgar, Grasser, Bajner
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Kearns catches the eye
WHUFC.com
Northern Irish youth international Daniel Kearns was 'outstanding' in
youth-team action at the weekend
03.11.2008
Tony Carr has paid tribute to his young charges after an impressive 6-1
weekend win away to Southampton with Danny Kearns deserving of special
mention.
Although Balint Bajner struck a hat-trick and Anthony Edgar scored one and
made two - it was young attacker Kearns who particularly caught the eye with
a lively display that was crowned by a delightful opening goal. The Northern
Irish youth international can play in an advanced position on either wing
and showed some good touches in a match that was not as straightforward as
the result suggested.
"It was a comprehensive win but it was not as easy as it sounds," said Carr,
who also saw Oliver Lee find the target. "For an hour it was nip and tuck.
We went two-nil up in the first half through Danny Kearns and Balint Bajner.
We were in a good position at half-time but they pulled one back about ten
minutes into the second half after a lack of concentration."
Carr admitted to being concerned at that point about which way the match
would go, having seen his team throw away leads earlier this campaign. "We
have been in that position before. We went one-nil up against Arsenal and
lost, we were one-nil up against Chelsea and lost and we were two-nil up
against Leeds and drew 2-2.
"I had visions briefly of it slipping away from us again but to be fair we
scored the third one quickly and it settled the nerves. We played some
really good football after that and in the end totally outplayed them." The
chief instigators of the visitors' strong play were Bajner and Kearns.
The towering Hungary Under-19 striker is just back from international duty -
including a 16-minute hat-trick against San Marino - and is impressing all
at the club with his form since arriving this summer. Carr said: "Balint has
got lots to learn about the English game but is improving. There were signs
of that this weekend and he is a striker in good form. Hopefully we can reap
the benefits of that."
Kearns had opened the scoring with a "cheeky chip" after good work on the
left flank and was then involved in the decisive third when he nodded back
Anthony Edgar's cross for Bajner to score. "He was outstanding," said Carr
of the youngster. "Technically he is a very good player, great skill, great
ball control - he can use his left and right foot. He will develop
physically and I am sure in the next couple of years he will be a very good
player."
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West Ham stop the rot as Zola praises Sears and Collison
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 3rd November 2008
By: Thomas Rooney
After four defeats on the spin, West Ham finally got themselves their first
point since the 2-1 victory over Fulham back in September. Gianfranco Zola's
men played their part in a thoroughly entertaining 1-1 draw against
Middlesbrough, with Mido securing a point for the home side after smashing
home a late free-kick.
Hayden Mullins had earlier put the Hammers ahead as his volley went in off
the bar during a first-half that the visitors completely dominated. The fact
that it was only 1-0 at half time though, probably cost West Ham the three
points. They really should have been more comfortably ahead at the break.
Had it of been 2-0 or 3-0, the football odds wouldn't have given
Middlesbrough a chance of a comeback. With just the one goal in it though,
they were bound to raise their game and they did exactly that in the second
half. Justin Hoyte had a diving header ruled out before substitute Mido
stepped up to score the equaliser.
Zola's men then had a couple of chances to win it, which on reflection,
wouldn't have been that unfair in my opinion. In injury time, Ross Turnbull
– who is starting to make a name for himself as an excellent young keeper –
made a brilliant double save from Lee Bowyer and Jack Collison to deny West
Ham all three points.
After the game, the overwhelming feeling was that it was a point gained as
opposed to two lost. Yes, Zola's side were guilty of missing chances, but
after such a poor run of form, the performance was encouraging and the point
signalled the end to a run of defeats. Overall, this needs to be used as the
turning point for the team and they need to kick on from here. Another run
of defeats would be very detrimental for the league position and the
confidence of the players.
West Ham fans would have learnt by now that Zola isn't shy to single out
players for praise after games. This time, it was youngsters Freddie Sears
and Jack Collison that impressed the Italian. He said the pair were 'really
good' and that 'they did not look like young players'. Therefore, Zola
obviously believes they have enough ability and maturity to have a positive
impact on West Ham's future.
Sears started up front alongside Craig Bellamy and was a constant nuisance
to the Middlesbrough defence. He had a youthful enthusiasm about him and
always gave his all to the cause. His performance deserved a goal really,
but after firing just wide early on he was unable to contribute in that
sense.
Collison was equally as impressive, but he will be disappointed he didn't
make it 2-0 after being played through by Bellamy. The youngster shot into
the ground allowing Turnbull to make a comfortable save. Zola admitted that
Collison should have scored, but said he 'can't complain because he has
played very well'.
All in all, it is encouraging that Zola has faith in the youngsters and if
the performance on Saturday is anything to go by, they may just get a long
run in the team. Perhaps they are the players to freshen up this team and
ignite a more decent run of form.
Zola believes that this 'could be a huge point' for his team and I have to
say I agree. The losing streak had to come to an end sooner rather than
later and now it has – results must keep coming. It's no good grabbing a
point against Middlesbrough if the team then go and lose at home to Everton
on Saturday.
This game against the Toffees is followed by another home game against Tony
Adams' Portsmouth. These are two crucial games and if two wins can be
achieved, the Zola era can well and truly get going. After a good start,
things slipped away slightly, but the next couple of games give the team a
chance to get back on track.
October is a month that no one associated with West Ham will look back on
fondly. However, if the performance against Middlesbrough is to be the norm,
then I'd happily place a football bet on November being much more
productive. There are still things that need improving, but more points will
be picked up – I'm sure of that.
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Sears claiming Hammers goal
9:03am Tuesday 4th November 2008
Echo
WEST Ham youngster Freddie Sears has vowed to fight Hayden Mullins for the
Hammers goals at Middlesbrough on Saturday. Midfielder Mullins was
originally credited with scoring in the 1-1 draw but ref Andre Marriner said
it flicked off teenager Sears on its way in. And in typical striker fashion
Sears has said: "I'm claiming it."
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Warnock set to join Blades in bid for Tevez compensation cash
By Sportsmail Reporter
Last updated at 8:56 AM on 04th November 2008
Daily Mail
Neil Warnock is considering joining his former players in a battle for
compensation over the Carlos Tevez affair. The ex-Sheffield United manager
is to meet lawyers pressing for a £5m claim on behalf of 15 of his former
players. Warnock, who was out of work for five months after resigning when
United were relegated - ironically by a Tevez goal against Manchester United
at Old Trafford - is in regular contact with former chairman Kevin McCabe as
he battles for up to £50m in damages. The Blades won their compensation
claim against West Ham after an independent tribunal ruled in the South
Yorkshire club's favour. In September an FA-appointed tribunal found the
Hammers guilty of breaching league regulations when they signed Tevez and
Argentine compatriot Javier Mascherano, now at Liverpool at the beginning of
the 2006-07 season. The Londoners have been ordered to pay a £30m fine -
against which they have appealed. Warnock is now manager of Championship
side Crystal Palace whom he led to the play-offs last season.
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Irons experience the key in Spurs victory
8:31am Tuesday 4th November 2008
Echo
WEST Ham United youngsters Tony Stokes and Jordan Spence believe their
opponents' greater experience was the key to Tottenham Hotspur's Barclays
Premier Reserve South victory on Monday evening. While the Irons fielded
just three players with competitive first-team experience in Stokes, Walter
Lopez and Spanish debutant Diego Tristan, Spurs had seven recognised
first-team players in their starting eleven. And both Stokes, 21, and
Spence, 18, believe the North Londoners' 2-0 triumph was based on that fact.
"Spurs has a very strong and experienced team out and I think it showed on
us in the end," admitted Canvey-born Stokes, who captained the Hammers from
his new position as a defensive midfielder. "I thought I had a good game,
but I just think their experience told. "We defended well but when they got
one goal, our heads went down a little bit, then they got the second and
although we battled back we didn't really look like scoring."
Spence, who has been called into the England Under-19 squad for the upcoming
friendly against Germany at Colchester, agreed with his skipper's
assessment. "They had an experienced side with some top-class players," the
centre-back said. "It was a good test for the boys. "Obviously we were
younger than them but it was a good game and we were disappointed to come
away with a 2-0 defeat. "There was still a lot we could take out of it."
Charlie Daniels scored twice in six second half minutes for Tottenham, while
West Ham lost Tristan (foot) and teenager Balint Bajner (Achilles) to injury
on a night to forget at Leyton Orient's Brisbane Road ground.
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Mullins prepared to grab West Ham chance when it comes
04.11.08 | tribalfootball.com
Hayden Mullins has highlighted the positive approach of new West Ham manager
Gianfranco Zola. Mullins was on the mark for the Hammers in their draw with
Middlesbrough and said: "We've been on a bad run but you have to stay
positive. "The manager has come in every day with a smile on his face and he
brings all his experience into training." On his personal situation, Mullins
added: "You've just got to keep ticking over ... when I'm asked to go and
play, I'm going to do my best."
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Collison happy with new West Ham chance
04.11.08 | tribalfootball.com
Jack Collison was delighted with his latest chance for West Ham in their
draw with Middlesbrough. The Wales U21 midfielder said: "When I get
opportunities like this, it's up to me to go out and impress."
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Tristan makes West Ham debut
04.11.08 | tribalfootball.com
Diego Tristan made his debut for West Ham United in yesterday's reserves
clash with Tottenham. The former Deportivo La Coruna and Spain striker had
45 minutes for the Hammers after being on the bench for the first team
against Middlesbrough on Saturday.
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West Ham academy boss Carr impressed by Kearns
04.11.08 | tribalfootball.com
West Ham academy boss Tony Carr has highlighted the progress of Northern
Ireland youth international Daniel Kearns. After their 6-1 win over
Southampton, Carr told whufc.com: "He was outstanding. "Technically he is a
very good player, great skill, great ball control - he can use his left and
right foot. He will develop physically and I am sure in the next couple of
years he will be a very good player."
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West Ham excited by Bajner potential
04.11.08 | tribalfootball.com
West Ham management are excited by the potential of Hungary U19 striker
Balint Bajner. Bajner hit a hat-trick for West Ham U18s in their 6-1 win
over Southampton and academy boss Tony Carr told whufc.com: "Balint has got
lots to learn about the English game but is improving. There were signs of
that this weekend and he is a striker in good form. Hopefully we can reap
the benefits of that."
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Tristan hurt on Hammers debut
11:52pm Monday 3rd November 2008
Echo
By Rob Pritchard »
DIEGO Tristan has graced some of the finest stadiums in world football, the
Nou Camp, Santiago Bernabeu and Old Trafford among them. On Monday evening,
however, the 32-year-old former Spain international made his West Ham United
debut in the modest surroundings of Leyton Orient's Brisbane Road. On a
cold, wet, miserable November evening, the Seville-born striker pulled on an
Irons shirt for the first time in a 2-0 Barclays Premier Reserve League
South loss to Tottenham Hotspur. All eyes among a small crowd were on
Tristan, who has spent the past three weeks getting match-fit after
completing a successful trial. But the ex-Deportivo La Coruna star played
for just 45 minutes before, having suffered a blow to his right foot when
Jacques Maghoma blocked the only shot he attempted six minutes before the
interval, he was replaced by Balint Bajner. Tristan's condition will be a
slight cause for concern for manager Gianfranco Zola, who could hand the
forward his first-team debut in Saturday's Premier League fixture against
Everton. Spurs' opening goal came nine minutes after Tristan's departure. A
controversially-awarded corner dropped to Takura Mtandari inside the penalty
area and when he crossed, Adam Street was unable to hold Kevin-Prince
Boateng's powerful header and Charlie Daniels calmly converted the rebound.
And Daniels, who had another strike disallowed for offside midway through
the first half, doubled the hosts' advantage six minutes later by drilling
low past Street from the left corner of the penalty area. The goals were no
more than Spurs, who fielded no fewer than seven experienced first-team
players, deserved for their neat, possession football.
And it could have been worse for the Irons had Street not denied Hossam
Ghaly and Kyle Fraser-Allen with superb saves. It was a frustrating evening
for West Ham, for whom lively winger Kyel Reid caught the eye with a number
of surging runs only to shoot off-target on no fewer than five occasions.
Daniel Kearns and Walter Lopez both went close late on, the former firing
over and the latter seeing his flicked header tipped over by Cesar Sanchez.
And the game ended on a real low for the visitors when Hungarian teenager
Bajner was stretchered off with a suspected leg injury.
West Ham United Reserves: Street, O'Neill, Widdowson, N'Gala, Spence,
Stokes, Harvey, Lopez, Kearns, Reid (Lee 77), Tristan (Bajner 46, Edgar 86).
Unused subs: Loveday, Brooks, Grasser.
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Youngsters ran the show, insists Hammers boss
9:44am Monday 3rd November 2008
Guardian Series
GIANFRANCO Zola has heaped praise on West Ham's youngsters after their
performance in the side's 1-1 draw with Middlesbrough at the weekend. The
Hammers boss, who had seen his side slump to four successive defeats after
two opening victories as manager, was impressed by the impact striker
Freddie Sears and midfielder Jack Collison made on the game. "I was very
pleased with some of the young players. Freddie Sears and Jack Collison were
really good," Zola said. "It was a tough match for experienced players so
imagine for the younger players. But in this game they did not look like
young players and that is a big compliment for them.
"Jack almost got the winner and he had another great opportunity earlier in
the game when he was through on goal but I can't complain because he has
played very well. "Results wise I hope we have turned the corner. Despite
losing four games we were not playing badly so now we need to carry on
playing well and getting results. It might be a huge point for us."
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Hammers boss: I thought it would be easier!
10:16am Monday 3rd November 2008
Echo
HAMMERS boss Gianfranco Zola has admitted he thought Premier League
management would be 'much easier' before arriving at Upton Park. The Italian
enjoyed a terrific start to his West Ham career after picking up
back-to-back wins in his opening two games in charge. But since then, he has
seen his side slip to four consecutive defeats before steadying the ship
somewhat with a draw at Middlesbrough on Saturday. But while Zola admits he
is learning all the time and is 'pleased' with how his first two months in
the job have gone, he conceded that the task that faces him is a lot tougher
than he initially expected. "I am tired – it has been a long week," said
Zola. "I have been in the job for a couple of months now and it has been
tough. "Sometimes I think it feels more tiring to be on the bench than it is
on the pitch. "You are learning things all the time, picking things up and
it is getting better and better in many, many aspects of the job. "I'm
pleased with how it's gone over the first two months and I'm sure the rest
will be even better. "When I was a player, though, I thought it looked so
easy! Absolutely. I can assure you I thought it was much easier than this.
"You can do a great job but it's always tied to the results. I know that."
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West Ham boss Zola makes Mullins feel smiles better
By Ken Dyer Last updated at 10:48 AM on 03rd November 2008
Daily Mail
West Ham goal hero Hayden Mullins believes Gianfranco Zola's positive
atttitude is rubbing off on him and his West Ham team-mates. Mullins scored
his first goal in two years in the 1-1 draw at Middlesbrough to end a
sequence of four defeats, and the midfield player said: 'We've been on a bad
run but you have to stay positive.
'The manager has come in every day with a smile on his face and he brings
all his experience into training.' Zola, forced by injuries to play
youngsters Freddie Sears and Jack Collison against Middlesbrough, said: 'I
was really pleased with them. It was a tough match even for experienced
players. 'They didn't look like youngsters out there and that is a big
compliment.' Welsh international Collison, who had a great chance to win the
game for West Ham near the end, said: 'When I get opportunities like this,
it's up to me to go out and impress.'
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Spence to feature against Spurs
11:05am Monday 3rd November 2008
Echo
By Rob Pritchard »
WEST Ham United's second-string return to Barclays Premier Reserve League
South action with a short trip across London to face Tottenham Hotspur at
Leyton Orient. England Under-19 defender Jordan Spence will play at
centre-back alongside Bondz N'Gala. Uruguay international left-back Walter
Lopez and central defender Jordan Spence could also feature, along with
young goalkeeper Adam Street and Academy products Daniel Kearns and Kyel
Reid. However, former Spain international striker Diego Tristan could be
left out ahead of Saturday's Premier League clash with Everton at Upton
Park. Reserve team manager Alex Dyer has recorded two wins in three matches
since taking over from Kevin Keen and is looking to continue that
encouraging start at Brisbane Road. "The reserves are very important," Dyer
told whufc.com "Sometimes you can forget how important the job is. You want
to develop the young lads but at the same time you have got the experienced
pros who need to get games. "The ones that have come in for me have been
great and their attitude has been excellent. "We have had two wins and a
loss since I have been in charge and it has gone well."
Spurs have a UEFA Cup match against Croatia Zagreb on Thursday and are set
to name a youthful side. However, fringe players Hossam Ghaly, Adel Taarabt,
Gilberto, Kevin-Prince Boateng and Paul Stalteri could be involved after
re-joining the first-team squad under former Hammers' boss Harry Redknapp.
West Ham are currently fifth in the nine-team league table, while Spurs are
bottom. Kick-off on Monday evening is at 7pm. Admission costs £5 for adults
and £3 for concessions
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Boro 1, West Ham 1 - Keeper stars in Boro late show
Nov 3 2008 by Eric Paylor,
Evening Gazette
The Verdict:
A GUTSY late fightback got Boro out of jail after a desperate display for
the first 70 minutes of a disappointing match. Mido's introduction coupled
with Ross Turnbull's outstanding late saves earned Boro a vital point though
Chris Riggott also deserves praise.
THERE'S no doubt Ross Turnbull's injury-time double denial of West Ham
earned his side a much-needed point and once again justified his manager's
faith in his ability. But had the Hammers grabbed a late winner, Boro could
have had no complaints about the outcome. Credit goes to the players for
showing fighting spirit and somehow grabbing a point from the game after
being out-played for most of the match. But the fact remains Boro were
woeful for the first 70 minutes. It's not as if West Ham were at
full-strength. Denied a number of key players, Gianfranco Zola cobbled
together a scratch starting XI which somehow ripped up the form book and ran
their opponents ragged in a torrid first half. It wasn't quite as bad as the
opening 45 minutes of the Cardiff cup tie, but it was too close for comfort.
What was particularly concerning was the way the visitors overwhelmed Boro
in midfield. Jack Collison only turned 20 last month, but he nonetheless put
in a hugely impressive performance in the engine room. The Wales Under-21
international, along with Hayden Mullins, completely dominated Gary O'Neil
and Didier Digard. After the game, Gareth Southgate revealed that he thought
his team would be jaded after the battling midweek win over Manchester City.
But if that was the case, why weren't West Ham equally flat? They played
champions Manchester United at Old Trafford on Wednesday, losing 2-0 to
record a fourth straight defeat. Clearly, Zola regarded the game as a
pivotal 90 minutes in the Hammers' season and fired up his side accordingly.
It was their cup final and, as Southgate admitted afterwards, the Boro
management team expected a tough afternoon. So why, then, were the home side
caught cold? Southgate laudably wants his team to play with patience and
retain possession, but West Ham's vibrant approach didn't allow Boro to
settle on the ball. They snapped into tackles and closed their opponents
down with ferocious zeal.
With more composure in the final third, the visitors could have been 3-0 up
at half-time. Instead, they led just 1-0 at the break thanks to Hayden
Mullins' 21st minute opener. The midfielder enjoyed a slice of luck when he
embarrassingly sliced his initial left-foot shot, but, after a lucky bounce,
composed himself to rifle home the ball with his right. Along the back four,
Chris Riggott stood out like a Colossus, making a succession of vital
interceptions and brave headed clearances. Typical of Boro's lack of
tactical nous was the decision to switch Stewart Downing to the right flank
mid-way through the first half and play Jeremie Aliadiere on the left. It's
a ploy that can work well if the two players regularly rotate, but Downing
remained on the right for the best part of 25 minutes, all but nullifying
the team's most potent attacking threat. Boro barely had a shot of note in
the opening 45 and Southgate replaced David Wheater at right-back with
Justin Hoyte to add more attacking width down that flank. But whatever the
manager said to his players during the interval, it didn't pay immediate
dividends. West Ham were the better side for the first 25 minutes of the
half and Turnbull needed to pull off a sharp save to deny Craig Bellamy. The
turning point came around the 70 minute mark when Boro finally had a couple
of half chances through O'Neil and Riggott and West Ham finally ran out of
steam with subs Mido and Julio Arca making a telling impact. The Argentinian
is still well short of full fitness but he at least put his foot on the ball
and starting asking questions of the opposition's defensive unit. Mido's
height and movement, meanwhile, stretched the West Ham backline. Boro
thought they'd equalized in the 79th minute when Hoyte headed home a sliced
effort from Andrew Taylor but he was flagged off-side. It was a tight call.
Five minutes later the hosts were ahead. Mido was pulled back on the edge of
the penalty area by James Collins. The central defender compounded his error
by jumping out of the way of Mido's low shot from the resulting free-kick,
giving his keeper Robert Green no chance of saving. Three minutes into
injury time, Boro fell asleep and allowed West Ham to create a gilt-edged
opening but Newton Aycliffe net minder denied first Lee Bowyer and then
Collison with two stupendous close-range stops.
---------------------------------------------------------
Key Moments
9 mins: A rash Alves back heel allows Freddie Sears to grab possession just
inside the Boro half but, after sprinting to the edge of the box, pulls his
shot wide.
21 mins: Luis Boa Morte cuts the ball back into Hayden Mullins who, from 15
yards, slices his first attempt horribly with his left foot but a fortuitous
bounce lands perfectly for his right and he lashes a fine shot into the roof
of the net.
53 mins: Craig Bellamy side-foots a pass to Jack Collison whose shot is
saved.
68 mins: Justin Hoyte feeds the ball to Gary O'Neil, whose fierce long range
effort is well stopped by Robert Green.
70 mins: Stewart Downing sends in a free-kick but Chris Riggott's
close-range header lacks pace and keeper Green saves comfortably.
79 mins: Andrew Taylor slices a shot which ends up reaching Hoyte at the
back post and the full-back heads home only to be flagged offside.
81 mins: Mido heads a Jeremie Aliadiere cross over the bar.
84 mins: From just outside the box to the left of centre, Mido strikes a low
free-kick under a poor West Ham wall to equalise.
86 mins: Turnbull saves a well struck Bellamy effort.
88 mins: Green pulls off a fine one-handed save to deny Mido's left-foot
shot from a tight angle.
93 mins: Turnbull pulls off a stunning double save to deny first Lee Bowyer
and then Collison.
---------------------------------------------------------
Opposition view
WEST Ham boss Gianfranco Zola felt his side should have come away with the
three points after Mullins had put his side ahead in the 21st minute after
being given a second bite of the cherry. Luis Boa Morte had found space down
the left flank and cut the ball back to Mullins, who miss-hit his first
attempt at goal. But the ball sat up for Mullins and he made no mistake with
his second chance, smashing a volley past Boro keeper Ross Turnbull and into
the top, right corner of the net. Jack Collison had the best of several
Hammers chances in the 52nd minute when he ghosted into the area and drilled
a shot straight at Ross Turnbull after he latched on to Craig Bellamy's
cushioned header. Zola (pictured) said: "I thought we would get a victory
but I am pleased because it was not an easy game for us. "We were coming
into the game from four defeats away and the players were really good, so at
the end of the day I am disappointed with the result but not with them. We
are going to try and improve some things and maybe we should have taken our
chances better. "But I cannot have any complaints with the players because
they were fantastic."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers' reserves set for Spurs
2:12pm Monday 3rd November 2008
Echo
WEST HAM reserves return to Barclays Premier Reserve League South action
with a short trip across London to face Tottenham Hotspur at Leyton Orient.
England under-19 defender Jordan Spence will play at centre-back alongside
Bondz N'Gala. Uruguay international left-back Walter Lopez could also
feature, along with young goalkeeper Adam Street and Academy products Daniel
Kearns and Kyel Reid. However, former Spain international striker Diego
Tristan could be left out ahead of Saturday's Premier League clash with
Everton at Upton Park. Reserve team manager Alex Dyer has recorded two wins
in three matches since taking over from Kevin Keen and is looking to
continue that encouraging start at Brisbane Road. "The reserves are very
important," Dyer told whufc.com "Sometimes you can forget how important the
job is. You want to develop the young lads but at the same time you have got
the experienced pros who need to get games. "The ones that have come in for
me have been great and their attitude has been excellent. "We have had two
wins and a loss since I have been in charge and it has gone well."
Spurs have a UEFA Cup match against Croatia Zagreb on Thursday and are set
to name a youthful side. However, fringe players Hossam Ghaly, Adel Taarabt,
Gilberto, Kevin-Prince Boateng and Paul Stalteri could be involved after
re-joining the first-team squad under former Hammers' boss Harry Redknapp.
West Ham are currently fifth in the nine-team league table, while Spurs are
bottom. Kick-off on Monday evening is at 7pm. Admission costs £5 for adults
and £3 for concessions.
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