Daily WHUFC News - 19th April 2014

Crystal Palace match preview
WHUFc.com
All the key information ahead of Saturday's visit of Crystal Palace
18.04.2014

WEST HAM UNITED v CRYSTAL PALACE
BARCLAYS PREMIER LEAGUE
SATURDAY 19 APRIL 2014
KICK-OFF: 3PM
REFEREE: MARTIN ATKINSON
FULL AUDIO COMMENTARY - WEST HAM TV

Introduction
. West Ham United face their second London derby in succession on Saturday
when Crystal Palace make the short journey to the Boleyn Ground, following
Tuesday's 3-1 defeat at Arsenal.
. The Hammers put in a good performance before the break at the Emirates
Stadium to take the lead through Matt Jarvis, but Arsenal came roaring back
to win thanks to Lukas Podolski's double and an Olivier Giroud strike.
. That meant West Ham have lost their last two fixtures, although they have
put up a fight in defeat to both Liverpool and the Gunners.
. Sam Allardyce's men last tasted victory on 31 March when they saw off
Sunderland 2-1 at the Stadium of Light with goals from Andy Carroll and
Mohamed Diame.
. Palace have been in terrific form and moved above the Hammers in the table
on Wednesday when they pulled off a surprise 3-2 win at Everton - their
fourth in succession.
. The Eagles have enjoyed a new lease of life under the management of Tony
Pulis and are now almost certainly safe for another season of Barclays
Premier League football

Team news
West Ham United
. The Hammers welcome Joey O'Brien, James Collins and Kevin Nolan back into
their squad following shoulder, calf and shoulder injuries respectively.
. Marco Borriello remains sidelined with a calf problem.
Crystal Palace
To follow

Background
. The first meeting between West Ham United and Crystal Palace was a
Southern League First Division fixture played at The Crystal Palace on 29
September 1906. A 10,000-strong crowd turned out to see a 1-1 draw, with
Arthur Winterhalder on target for the Hammers.
. The two clubs met in the Division One Play-Off final at the Millennium
Stadium on 29 May 2004. Neil Shipperley's goal gave the Eagles a 1-0 victory
and secured their promotion to the Premier League.
. The largest crowd to watch a Crystal Palace versus West Ham United fixture
at Selhurst Park is the 41,540 who witnessed the Hammers' 3-0 victory in
south London on 30 October 1971. That result also marked West Ham's
largest-ever success at the home of the Eagles. However, West Ham also
recorded an 8-1 win at Palace during the First World War and a 6-1 win in
south London during the Second World War.
. West Ham's biggest home win over Crystal Palace since the two clubs joined
the Football League was a 4-0 Division One win at the Boleyn Ground on 28
October 1972, when Trevor Brooking (two), John McDowell and Bryan 'Pop'
Robson scored in front of 28,894 fans.
. West Ham United defeated Crystal Palace 11-0 in the war-time London
Combination on 6 April 1918. Syd Puddefoot netted seven times, with Burke
(two), Herbert Ashton and Andy Cunningham getting the other goals in front
of 4,000 spectators.
. Ten players have made their West Ham United debuts against Crystal Palace
- Thomas Lee (September 1907), David Waggott (September 1908), Albert Scanes
(March 1910), Thomas Lonsdale (October 1913), Alfred Tirrell (February
1914), William Henderson (March 1922), William Edwards (March 1923), Ade
Coker (October 1971), Papa Bouba Diop and Manuel Almunia (both October
2011).

Last time out
Tuesday 15 April 2014
Barclays Premier League
Arsenal 3-1 West Ham United
West Ham United: Adrian, Demel, Tomkins, Reid, Armero, Nocerino, Noble,
Diame, Downing (J.Cole 78), Carroll (C.Cole 84), Jarvis (Vaz Te 78)
Subs not used: Jaaskelainen, McCartney, Taylor, Johnson
Goal: Jarvis 40
Wednesday 16 April 2014
Barclays Premier League
Everton 2-3 Crystal Palace
Crystal Palace: Speroni, Mariappa (Parr 68), Ward, Ledley, Dann, Delaney,
Puncheon, Jedinak, Jerome (O'Keefe 76), Chamakh (Murray 80), Bolasie
Subs not used: Hennessey, McCarthy, Ince, Gayle
Goals: Puncheon 23, Dann 49, Jerome 73

Previous meeting
The Hammers last travelled to Crystal Palace on Tuesday 3 December and were
unable to build on a thumping 3-0 victory over Fulham in their previous game
as they went down to a 1-0 loss, with former West Ham loanee Marouane
Chamakh hitting the target.
Crystal Palace: Speroni; Ward, Gabbidon, Delaney, Moxey; Puncheon (Kebe 66),
Jedinak, Dikagcoi, Bannan (O'Keefe 82); Chamakh (Williams 85), Jerome
Subs: Price, Mariappa, Phillips, Gayle
Goal: Chamakh 42

West Ham United: Jaaskelainen; O'Brien, Collins, Tomkins, Rat (McCartney
78); Morrison, Noble, Nolan (J.Cole 58); Downing, C.Cole (Maiga 58), Diame
Subs: Adrian, Jarvis, Collison, Demel

Last six meetings
3 December 2013 - Crystal Palace 1-0 West Ham United (Premier League)
25 February 2012 - West Ham United 0-0 Crystal Palace (Championship)
1 October 2011 - Crystal Palace 2-2 West Ham United (Championship)
29 May 2004 - Crystal Palace 1-0 West Ham United (Championship Play-Off
final)
12 April 2004 - Crystal Palace 1-0 West Ham United (Championship)
1 October 2003 - West Ham United 3-0 Crystal Palace (Championship)
Overall record v Crystal Palace - W 30 D 22 L 20

Ten-year records
West Ham United
2012/13 Premier League 10th
2011/12 Championship 3rd (promoted to Premier League via Play-Offs
2010/11 Premier League 20th (relegated to Championship)
2009/10 Premier League 17th
2008/09 Premier League 9th
2007/08 Premier League 10th
2006/07 Premier League 15th
2005/06 Premier League 9th
2004/05 Championship 6th (promoted to Premier League via Play-Offs)
2003/04 Championship 4th
Crystal Palace
2012/13 Championship 5th (promoted to Premier League via Play-Offs)
2011/12 Championship 17th
2010/11 Championship 20th
2009/10 Championship 21st
2008/09 Championship 15th
2007/08 Championship 5th
2006/07 Championship 12th
2005/06 Championship 6th
2004/05 Premier League 18th (relegated to Championship)
2003/04 Championship 6th (promoted to Premier League via Play-Offs)

Referee
. Tuesday's match referee will be Martin Atkinson.
. A referee since the age of 16, Atkinson was promoted to the Football
League list of assistant referees in 1998. In 2000, Atkinson was promoted to
the Select Group of assistant referees, allowing him to run the line in
Premier League matches.
. Atkinson joined the National List of referees for the Football League at
the start of the 2003/04 season before taking charge of his first Premier
League fixture on 20 April 2005 when Manchester City entertained Birmingham
City.
. Atkinson was the man in the middle at the 2006 FA Community Shield between
Chelsea and Liverpool at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff. He also took
charge of the 2008 FA Trophy final between Ebbsfleet United and Torquay
United at Wembley Stadium.
. Atkinson is refereeing West Ham for the third time this season after
taking charge of the Hammers 3-0 win over Fulham in the Barclays Premier
League in November and the 5-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest in the FA Cup
with Budweiser.

General information
. Tickets for this game have SOLD OUT.
. Sunny spells are anticipated on Saturday, with maximum temperatures of 12C
(54F)
. No closures are planned on the eastern sections of the District and
Hammersmith & City lines this weekend. Please check here for tube updates
and here for National Rail.

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Carroll wants return to winning ways
WHUFc.com
Andy Carroll wants to turn positive performances into a result when Crystal
Palace visit the Boleyn Ground
18.04.2014

Andy Carroll believes the Hammers' level of performances in their last two
games suggests a positive result is around the corner when they host Crystal
Palace. West Ham have lost out to both Liverpool and Arsenal in the last two
weeks, but have pushed their top-four opponents all the way. That leaves
Carroll with the knowledge that the Londoners can hurt Palace and end their
four-game winning streak should they replicate those displays. The No9 said:
"I thought our counter-attack play was really good at Arsenal, and they
couldn't handle in in the first 30 minutes. "We got the goal but couldn't
hold onto the lead for long, which was disappointing. "We had a couple of
chances and we could have been 2-0 up before they scored, but it wasn't to
be and Arsenal showed their class to put their three goals away when they
had the chances. "The timing of their goals hurt us, because our goal was a
great time to score and if we could have held it until half-time it would
have been good to go in at 1-0 up. "They got back level though and it feels
like you're coming in 1-0 down. Then for them to score again just after half
time was shattering really. "Playing well against the top teams and creating
chances, gives the lads the confidence to go into the weekend and get
something against Palace."

With the Hammers back at home on Saturday, Carroll wants to clinch Barclays
Premier League survival for certain in front of the home fans. He added: "We
can't wait to get out on the pitch on Saturday - when you get beaten you
just want to get back out there and put it right. Saturday is a chance for
us to do that.
"They've been playing well, we know that and the manager knows that so we
need to stop them from doing that against us "I think we're safe anyway, but
another three points would put a sure thing on it and that's what we want to
do."

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Tributes pour in for Dylan
WHUFC.com
The football world has paid tribute to Dylan Tombides, who passed away on
Friday at the age of 20
18.04.2014

The football world has paid tribute to West Ham United striker Dylan
Tombides, who passed away on Friday at the age of 20 following a brave
battle with cancer. Dylan passed away on Friday morning with his family by
his side having courageously fought the disease for three years after
initially being diagnosed with testicular cancer in summer 2011. A hugely
popular figure among his team-mates, coaches, backroom staff, supporters and
opponents alike, the Australia U22 international was loved and respected
throughout the football world for his talent, determination and outstanding
character and personality. Dylan's passing has deeply touched everyone who
had the honour to know him:

Dylan's brother and West Ham United midfielder Taylor Tombides: "RIP Dylan
my beloved brother. You will be missed but never forgotten. You were a
massive inspiration to everyone."

Joint-Chairman David Sullivan: "It's such devastating news for his family
and my thoughts are with them at this time. Sometimes life can be incredibly
unkind as we lose someone so talented and so young. Dylan had a real zest
for life and everyone at the Club was inspired by his determination to fight
this awful illness to the end."

Joint-Chairman David Gold: "Incredibly sad to hear the news about Dylan
Tombides. He was always so positive despite his illness. All my thoughts are
with his family."

Manager Sam Allardyce: "Dylan was one of the bravest characters I have ever
met and nobody fought his dreadful disease as hard as this lad. Football was
his life and he didn't miss a day's training even when he wasn't fit enough
to train because of his treatment. He had an incredible hunger for life,
which was why he fought this terrible disease so strongly. All of our
thoughts are with Dylan's family at this time."

Academy Director Tony Carr MBE: "It's very, very sad news. Dylan has fought
this illness tirelessly and it was a tribute to him that he was able to make
first-team debut despite his illness. Everyone at the Academy is devastated
and words can't explain how we feel. All of our thoughts are with his
parents, his brother Taylor, who is a scholar in the Academy, and the rest
of his family. He will be sorely missed."

Football Federation Australia CEO David Gallop: "On behalf of the Australian
Football Community, we offer our deepest condolences to Dylan's family, team
mates and friends during this extremely sad time. The Tombides family has
lost a fine young man and Australian football has lost one of its most
promising football players. He will be remembered for the courage he showed
in his personal battle as much as the prodigious talent he displayed on the
football field."

FIFA President Sepp Blatter: "My thoughts & prayers are with the family of
Dylan Tombides, West Ham United and Football Federation Australia today.
Rest in peace Dylan."

FA Chairman Greg Dyke: "On behalf of The FA, I would like to send my deepest
condolences to the family and friends of Dylan Tombides. My thoughts are
with them at this very sad time, and also with those that knew Dylan at West
Ham United and Football Federation Australia. He was also close to many of
our own England development team players and I know he will be much missed."

West Ham United team-mate and friend George Moncur: "My best mate In the
whole world Dylan Tombides. We has such good times I'm absolutely
devastated. RIP I love you so much pal."

West Ham United team-mate and friend Dan Potts: "Such heartbreaking news.
Dyl you were a great friend, a great player and most of all a great person.
I'm blessed and privileged to have had such good memories with you on and
off the pitch and to have had you as such a close friend. You fought so
bravely mate and with such positivity. Everything that has happened is so
undeserved. All my love is with you and your family."

West Ham United team-mate and friend Jordan Spence: "Despite losing you so
soon, your life will live long in the hearts and minds of those who had the
privilege of knowing you."

West Ham United team-mate and friend Matthias Fanimo: "Can't believe the
news I've just heard. I'm in absolute shock. Dylan Tombides RIP - one of my
closest mates you will be dearly missed."

West Ham United team-mate and friend Elliot Lee: "Still don't want to
believe it. My strike partner forever. Rest In Paradise my brother. Miss and
love you always."

West Ham United team-mate and friend Sebastian Lletget: "I can't believe
this. The fight he put in to beat this thing. May he rest in peace. God
bless his soul. My great friend and teammate Dylan."

West Ham United team-mate and friend Kieran Sadlier: "My inspiration and one
of my closest friends! Such a talented footballer and funniest guys about!
Rest in peace I'll always love you man."

West Ham United team-mate and friend Blair Turgott: "Absolutely devastated
to hear about my good friend and teammate Dylan Tombides. Words cannot
explain, thoughts are with his family."

West Ham United team-mate and friend Ravel Morrison: "Very sad to hear the
news about Dylan Tombides.God bless you. My heart is with you and your
family. RIP Dylan."

Chelsea FC: "All at CFC are deeply saddened at the passing of West Ham's
Dylan Tombides. Thoughts and prayers with his friends, family and
team-mates."

Adelaide United FC: "From everyone at Adelaide United FC, our thoughts are
with the family of Dylan Tombides. A young, brave footballer taken far too
soon. RIP."

Australia international Tim Cahill: "I'm always grateful for life and I will
pray for you. Rest in Peace my brother Dylan Tombides."
Fox Sports Australia Premier League correspondent Daniel Garb: "The reaction
back home is absolute devastation. The Australian football community is in
complete mourning. e know he will be remembered with a minute's applause at
West Ham's game with Crystal Palace tomorrow but it speaks volumes of his
ability and potential that games in the A-League finals this weekend - the
most important matches in the Australian soccer season - will honour a
player that never played a Premier League game or full international. It is
with such sadness that we will never see that immense potential realised."

*Supporters' tributes have also poured in on the Club's Facebook and Twitter
pages. Please continue to share your memories of Dylan with us.

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Lletget delight at lead role
WHUFC.com
Sebastian Lletget was delighted to take the captain's arm band against
Sunderland on Thursday
19.04.2014

Sebastian Lletget felt honoured to captain the Development Squad as they
struck late to beat Sunderland in their final Barclays Under-21 Premier
League fixture on Thursday afternoon. The American midfielder led by example
after taking the arm band from regular captain Dan Potts and helped the
Hammers recover from a goal down to steal the spoils in the last minute.
Lletget's midfield compatriot Josh Cullen equalised after the Black Cats had
surged ahead through a Mikael Mondron penalty, and just as the match looked
set to finish as a draw an own-goal by Tom McNamee handed the Hammers
victory. Lletget was delighted with the victory as well as receiving the
opportunity to lead the team in their season finale. He told West Ham TV:
"It was a great way to end the season and the boys were really up for this
one. We had a good week of training in the build-up and I think that helped
us in this one. "It's an honour to be the captain of a team, especially as
I'm so close to my teammates. It was good to lead them and I'm glad that I
have a 100 per cent record at this moment in time, so I'm happy. "I think
overall it worked well. Going into the game it's exactly what we wanted to
come out with, so I'm happy we managed to come away with the win."

The young Hammers knew the importance of a positive result from their final
game of the season as they strived to finish in the top eleven of the
league, but proceedings at the Academy of Light didn't go wholly to plan. A
questionable penalty was awarded against Dan Potts after he was adjudged to
have fouled Mondron, with the striker picking himself up to score. Lletget
admitted the side were bemused by the decision but was left delighted with
the way they responded. "In the first half we weren't on top of our game as
much as were in the second half. Our intensity was much, much higher in the
second half and I think that was the major difference in helping us to get
the last minute goal. "We were a bit down about that (the penalty), but you
can't hold a grudge against the referee for the whole game especially when
it happens early In a game, you just have to switch back on and that's what
we did. "Everyone put the work in today. If there was one person that didn't
then I don't think we would have been able to keep going to the end and get
our last minute winner."

With a place in the top tier of U21 football for next season secure, Lletget
feels the season has been a positive one as the Club continue to progress.
"I'm very happy, especially for the younger lads because they deserve to
play in the top leagues next season. They're more than good enough and
they've shown that throughout the second half of the season. It's good for
them going into next season. "The team has changed quite a bit which never
helps, but it's good that we have a lot of variety in players. It's good
experience for the younger ones, I'm one of the older ones now but I think
the chemistry and philosophy within the Club will continue to get better. "I
think Nick has been preparing for next year already and having this win will
set the tone going into pre-season."

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Dylan Tombides: West Ham striker, 20, dies of cancer
BBC.co.uk

West Ham have confirmed that striker Dylan Tombides has died aged 20. The
club announced Tombides, who made one senior appearance after signing as a
15-year-old, had died "following his brave battle with cancer". They said
the Australia-born player, diagnosed with testicular cancer in 2011, "will
be hugely missed by all who had the honour of knowing him". There will be a
minute's applause in his memory at West Ham's home game against Crystal
Palace on Saturday.

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West Ham v Crystal Palace
KO 15:00
Tony Pulis
18 April 2014
Last updated at 12:31
By John Motson
BBC Match of the Day commentator

BARCLAYS PREMIER LEAGUE
Venue: Upton Park Date: Saturday, 19 April

TEAM NEWS

West Ham captain Kevin Nolan will return to the side after recovering from
the hamstring injury which saw him miss the midweek defeat by Arsenal.
Defenders James Collins and Joey O'Brien also return to the squad.
Crystal Palace have a number of injury concerns, with Marouane Chamakh, Joel
Ward and Yannick Bolasie all doubtful ahead of the trip to West Ham.
Defender Adrian Mariappa sustained a broken nose in the win over Everton but
he is expected to be available.

MATCH PREVIEW

The threat of relegation has been hanging over these two London clubs for
much of the season, but I believe they are both now assured of their Premier
League places. Crystal Palace reached the magic 40-point mark with an
outstanding win at Everton, surely the result of the week, and one more
victory will make it mathematically impossible for them to go down. When
Tony Pulis was appointed at Palace, the club were six points from safety.
Since taking charge, he has overseen 10 wins and done the almost unthinkable
by achieving safety with four games to go. I was at Selhurst Park to see
them beat Aston Villa last weekend and their superb fans have played a
crucial role in spurring on their team. "There is a really nice balance to
the Crystal Palace team with Jason Puncheon and Yannick Bolasie bringing
pace, and Marouane Chamakh playing off Cameron Jerome up front. "Defensively
they are very, very good too. They are looking a very good side in every
department, and I would back them to get something at Upton Park."

Palace are on a run of four successive wins, and a special word has to go to
Jason Puncheon who, with four goals in three games, has provided the
finishing touch to Palace's impressive build-up play. Yannick Bolasie has
also been outstanding, offering pace and power on the wing, and he is a
strong contender to be their player of the year. The remarkable turnaround
at Palace is down to Pulis, who keeps up his proud record of never having
been relegated as a manager. Hopefully the allegations this week that Palace
were given Cardiff's team-sheet before they beat their rivals won't take the
shine off the club's achievement.
They could yet emulate West Ham, who finished in 10th place last season
after earning promotion via the play-offs in the previous campaign. Sam
Allardyce's team may only be on 37 points, but they sit comfortably in 12th
place and have nothing to worry about. With both sides able to relax and
play with a certain amount freedom, it should make for an entertaining
derby. This summer's World Cup in Brazil will be on some players' minds and
West Ham striker Andy Carroll has just four games left to press home his
case for a place in England's squad.

MATCH FACTS

Head-to-head
Crystal Palace can do the league double over West Ham for the first time in
the top flight, having won 1-0 at home last December.
West Ham are unbeaten in their last four home league matches against Palace,
winning three and drawing one.

West Ham
Sam Allardyce's side have lost five of their last seven league matches.
They have lost from a winning position six times this season - including
their previous match against Arsenal. The record number of defeats from
winning positions for a club in a Premier League season is seven.
The Hammers have only drawn one match since the turn of the year, with seven
wins and 10 defeats in their 18 matches in all competitions.
They have failed to keep a clean sheet in their last eight league matches,
despite keeping 13 in total this season - only Chelsea (16) have kept more.

Crystal Palace
Crystal Palace have won their last four Premier League games. If they beat
West Ham they will equal their top-flight record of five league wins in a
row, set in December 1992.
Victory on Saturday would also establish a new club record of three away
wins in a row in the top flight.
If the season had started when Tony Pulis took charge of Palace, the Eagles
would be in eighth place.
Only Chelsea (14) have conceded fewer goals than Palace (20) in the period
Pulis has been in charge.
Jason Puncheon has scored four goals in the last three league games.

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Australia to observe Tombides silence
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 18th April 2014
By: Staff Writer

Dylan Tombides' former club will be holding a minute's silence at all
matches this weekend in honour of the 20-year-old striker, who passed away
earlier today. Stirling Lions, an Academy Partner Club of West Ham United
based in Western Australia announced this afternoon that they will observe
the silence in memory of former player Tombides, who began his career with
the Balcatta-based club. Lions president Don Evens, speaking in the wake of
the sad news said: "We have tragically lost one of the most gifted and
level-headed footballers our club has had the privilege of guiding along the
football dream path."

Those comments were echoed by the Football Federation Australia's David
Gallop. "On behalf of the Australian football community, we offer our
deepest condolences to Dylan's family, teammates and friends during this
extremely sad time," he said. "The Tombides family has lost a fine young man
and Australian football has lost one of its most promising football players.
He will be remembered for the courage he showed in his personal battle as
much as the prodigious talent he displayed on the football field."

Greg Dyke, the current chairman of the Football Association also expressed
his condolenses on behalf of the game's governming body. "On behalf of The
FA, I would like to send my deepest condolences to the family and friends of
Dylan Tombides," he said. "My thoughts are with them at this very sad time,
and also with those that knew Dylan at West Ham United and Football
Federation Australia. He was also close to many of our own England
development team players and I know he will be much missed."

In addition to the minute's applause being observed by the Sterling Lions
club, the FFA have confirmed that the Central Coast Mariners and Adelaide
United will also observe a silence at tomorrow's A-League 2014 Elimination
Final.

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Dylan's farewell message
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 18th April 2014
By: Staff Writer

Dylan Tombides took the trouble to personally thank everyone who had wished
him well on the occasion of his 20th birthday just one month ago. The young
Hammer passed away earlier today following a lengthy battle against
testicular cancer, just a matter of weeks after he sent a special message to
all his well-wishers. "I'd just like to say a big thank you to anybody who
took the time to wish me a happy birthday today whether you're a close
friend of mine, a family member, a West Ham United fan, a personal fan of
mine of if you have read my story and been inspired by it," he wrote.
"Anyone who has been close to me over the last 3-4 years will know the tough
times I've endured and the fight I've had to put up and continue to do so!
"Spending another birthday in hospital is never ideal but so many people
made me smile today for the effort they put in and I'm very grateful for it.
"Even if I didn't get the chance to reply to your birthday message to me
believe me when I say it doesn't go unnoticed and I'm very thankful to you
all. "I just thought I'd like to put this little message together to
collectively say 'thank you' to all who took the time to message me - it
means more than you will ever know."

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London derby as West Ham play host to Crystal Palace
Last Updated: 18/04/14 2:47pm
SSN

Derby day at Upton Park will see West Ham United looking to join Crystal
Palace on 40 points - well clear of relegation danger. The Hammers, in what
has been an inconsistent campaign, have started to falter again as they
close on a mark all but guaranteed to secure Premier League safety.
Back-to-back defeats have kept them glancing over their shoulder, with seven
points separating them from the drop zone. Most sides below them only have
12 left to play for, though, so one more positive result would preserve
their top-flight status for another year. Palace have already hit that
target and will be turning their attention towards the summer and building
for another season among the elite. Tony Pulis has done a remarkable job
since inheriting the Eagles' reins and is being billed as a serious
contender for the prestigious Manager of the Year award. He will, however,
want to ensure that his in-form side continue to surge towards the finishing
post - and a possible top-half finish - with Palace going in search of a
fifth successive victory on Saturday afternoon.

Paul Merson's prediction

If this was January I'd half fancy Palace to get in the Europa League,
they're flying aren't they! That win over Everton was very impressive - and
Tony Pulis has done a great job there since he took over. West Ham didn't
have enough against Arsenal but if these two sides draw then they'll both
definitely be safe and that's what I can see happening at Upton Park.

PAUL PREDICTS: 1-1

West Ham Badge West Ham
Last 6
Arsenal (a)3-1
Liverpool (h)1-2
Sunderland (a)1-2
Hull City (h)2-1
Man Utd (h)0-2
Stoke City (a)3-1
West Ham boss Sam Allardyce is ready to welcome three key figures back into
his squad. Kevin Nolan, James Collins and Joey O'Brien all missed Tuesday's
3-1 defeat at Arsenal, but the trio have shaken off knocks to put themselves
back in contention. That means the only notable absentee for the Hammers as
they prepare for another tussle with London rivals will be on-loan Italian
striker Marco Borriello, who is nursing a hamstring complaint.

C Palace Badge C Palace
Last 6
Everton (a)2-3
A Villa (h)1-0
Cardiff (a)0-3
Chelsea (h)1-0
Newcastle (a)1-0
Sunderland (a)0-0
Marouane Chamakh, Joel Ward and Yannick Bolasie face late fitness tests
ahead of Crystal Palace's trip to the East End. The trio started the 3-2
midweek win at Everton and are amongst the four or five players manager
Pulis revealed are doubts for this weekend. Palace defender Adrian Mariappa
sustained a broken nose at Goodison Park, but Pulis expects him to be
available.

Opta stats

West Ham have only lost one of their 12 previous home league games against
Crystal Palace (W6 D5).
Crystal Palace have won just five of their 24 away London derbies in the
Premier League (D5 L14).
Only once in top-flight history have Palace won five games in a row before
(December 1992).

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West Ham youngster Dylan Tombides dies, aged 20
Last Updated: 18/04/14 5:48pm
SSN

West Ham have announced that striker Dylan Tombides has died at the age of
20 following a battle with cancer. The Australia youth international, who
represented his country at the U17 World Cup in Mexico in 2010, was
diagnosed with testicular cancer in 2011. Tombides, who joined West Ham at
the age of 15, had turned out for West Ham's U18 and U21 sides and made his
senior debut for the club in the League Cup tie against Wigan in 2012. The
youngster worked tirelessly to promote awareness of male cancer, supporting
the One for the Boys campaign along with celebrities including Hollywood
actor Samuel L Jackson, snooker player Jimmy White and Australian singer
Peter Andre. A West Ham club statement read: "Dylan has passed away on
Friday morning with his family by his side having courageously fought the
disease for three years after initially being diagnosed with testicular
cancer in the summer of 2011. "Dylan was respected by everyone who knew him
for his intelligent views on the game and his larger than life character.
"He was a loving son, amazing brother and well-respected member of the West
Ham squad. He will be hugely missed by everyone who had the honour of
knowing him." West Ham have confirmed there will be a minute's applause in
Dylan's memory ahead of their match with Crystal Palace on Saturday and the
players will also wear black armbands in his honour.

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West Ham midfielder Antonio Nocerino hopes to stay in England
By Simone Bargellini | Last Updated: 18/04/14 3:52pm
SSN

West Ham midfielder Antonio Nocerino wants to stay in the Premier League
beyond this season, with Upton Park his preferred choice. The 29-year-old
started only his second game for the Hammers in their 3-1 defeat to Arsenal
in midweek since joining on loan in January, and has only a handful of
substitute appearances to his name. However, despite playing such a
peripheral role for Sam Allardyce's men, Nocerino has seen enough to
encourage him to want to extend his time in the England's top flight. "I'm
at West Ham on loan but I hope to stay in the Premier League even in the
next season," Nocerino told Corriere dello Sport. "West Ham take my
precedence over all other clubs, because they gave me confidence when AC
Milan no longer believed in me. "I'm fine in England, here there's a
different mindset and a lot less pressure than in Italy."

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West Ham boss Sam Allardyce says Tony Pulis deserves award
Last Updated: 18/04/14 1:17pm
SSN

West Ham boss Sam Allardyce says Tony Pulis' efforts in dragging Crystal
Palace to Premier League safety should put him in line to be named Manager
of the Year. Palace only had four points to their name when Pulis took over
from Ian Holloway on November 23 but he has led a spirited revival to steer
them to 11th in the table and 10 clear of the relegation zone. Palace's 3-2
win at Everton on Wednesday was their fourth in a row and has given them a
tally of 40 points from their 34 matches. "I think that it says a lot for
the experienced British manager," Allardyce told West Ham's official
website. "It tells you that while a lot of foreign coaches have been
selected by other clubs, there's enough quality and experience on your
doorstep to do the job in this very difficult league. "I think that he has
proven beyond any question of a doubt his qualities as a manager. Contrary
to what anyone says, his team does not play like his Stoke team did.
"There are some similarities, but he has a bunch of players who are
different to the ones he had at Stoke and he gets the best out of them.
"That's all you can do as a manager, work with the tools you've got and get
the best out of them. Certainly he's doing that at the moment."

And Allardyce hopes Pulis' lack of management at the top end of the Premier
League will count for nothing when the awards are handed out at the end ofr
the season. More pressing for the Hammers boss is the chance to ruin the
feelgood factor at Palace when the teams meet at Upton Park on Saturday, and
send his own side up to the prized 40-point 'safety mark'. "It depends
really," he said. "I think that fashionably it'll be somebody at the top
(who receives the award), but we'll have to wait and see. "What I want to do
is make Tony very disappointed on Saturday. They've overtaken us in the
league, they've got 40 points and we want to make sure by the end of the
game on Saturday that we've got 40 points as well. "Then we can really start
our planning for next year. He's done a great job and he should get the
credit he deserves, but we'll be all out to beat Crystal Palace on Saturday.
"It's another local derby and one that we've got to try and win for
everybody, including our fans of course."

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HAS THE MOOD CHANGED?
By Iain Dale 19 Apr 2014 at 07:12
West Ham Till I Die
Guest post by Rugby Irons

It's two weeks since the assorted opinions of over two thousand fans were
split over whether Sam should stay or go. I asked then, with Sam assuming we
were safe enough, whether he was a good enough manager to use the last six
games to show us if he had enough in his locker to change the 50% who want
him gone. Well two games gone , slightly improved performances, fewer shots
on target, two goals for and five against and most importantly no points,
and now not quite safe enough.

So has the mood changed? Are fans prepared to accept that if Sam did as he
did against Liverpool in that we were a little more entertaining but overall
we only had one shot on target and a dodgy goal. It's alright to argue the
Liverpool goals were no better but the fact is they counted. Against Arsenal
we started well but failed to make it count . For me the manager should have
got off his comfy Emirates seat and forced the game further. Mo and Matty
had them retreating down the left and so what did the team do after twenty
minutes? Yep they started to switch the play to the ineffectual right hand
side. Sam should have recognised this. Everyone around me did! He should
have told his midfield to stay left and let Mo and Matty force them back and
take at least one of the chances that went begging.

It was also noted that Andy Carroll completely outjumped the German for five
times running and yet we didn't get onto the end of any of them . Five
flick-ons and nothing, which begs the question what and how does Sam coach
his players to play off Carroll? Do they not practice knock downs and third
man running, which has been a feature of West Ham play for decades? It was
even more galling when Arsenal managed to do it simply with their third a
simple knock down, finish and game over. Considering Sam's knowledge of the
game said they were 'weaker' and would fade and yet they won at a canter.
Genius. Which now begs the question, are we going to lose our next four
matches too, as looks very likely.

All this rubbish from Cardiff about Palace knowing the team won't matter
tomorrow and whoever he plays it's the same style and no end result. WBA is
a banana skin, Spuds may still be laughably chasing something and Citeh are
hardly going to have to get out of second gear are they? So the question is
as it was two weeks ago, are the 50% still on favour of Sam and what he
brings, or are the other 50% right to want him out? Simple enough question.

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DYLAN TOMBIDES 1994-2014
By Iain Dale 18 Apr 2014 at 14:57
West Ham Till I Die

This is a statement issued on the club website announcing the tragic death
of Dylan Tombides. Dylan was a star in the making and it is a tragedy that
cancer has taken him at such a young age. His courage in trying to beat the
disease was there for all to see and as we try to digest this awful news,
let's think of all his teammates who will be absolutely devastated this
afternoon. There are no words to comfort them, or his family, who have been
there for him all the way. There will be no further posts on the site today.
Please just leave your thoughts and tributes in the comment.

West Ham United announce the sad news that forward Dylan Tombides has passed
away at the age of 20 following his brave battle with cancer.

Dylan passed away on Friday morning with his family by his side having
courageously fought the disease for three years after initially being
diagnosed with testicular cancer in summer 2011.

He remained a regular visitor to Chadwell Heath throughout his treatment and
his positive attitude and professional approach to his football and training
always impressed and boosted his team-mates and coaches alike.

Dylan's amazing resilience and positivity saw him through months of surgery
and chemotherapy, while his outstanding talent saw him make his first-team
debut in a League Cup tie with Wigan Athletic at the Boleyn Ground in
September 2012.

Away from the pitch, Dylan did a huge amount of work to raise awareness of
male cancer, supporting the One for the Boys campaign at a number of
high-profile events alongside the likes of Hollywood star Samuel L. Jackson,
snooker star Jimmy White and fellow Australian Peter Andre.

Dylan was respected by everyone who knew him for his intelligent views on
the game and his larger than life character. He was a loving son, amazing
brother and well-respected member of the West Ham squad. He will be hugely
missed by everyone who had the honour of knowing him.

His passing will be marked by a minute's applause ahead of Saturday's
Barclays Premier League fixture with Crystal Palace at the Boleyn Ground.
The Hammers' players will also wear black armbands in his memory.

The thoughts of everyone associated with the Club are with his parents
Tracylee and Jim, brother Taylor, his family and friends at this sad time.
The Club request that their privacy is now respected and they are allowed to
grieve their much loved son and brother in peace.
Dylan played youth team football in Australia and Hong Kong before joining
West Ham aged 15. Had his illness not struck there's little doubt he would
have played in the Premier League. He was an unused substitute in the game
against Sunderland on 22 May 2011. A month later he was diagnosed with
testicular cancer which had been discovered after a random drugs test taken
shortly after he had played for Australia U-17 team in a 4-0 defeat against
Uzbekistan in the Under-17 World Cup in Mexico. In June 2012, after
treatment, he was told he was back to full health and returned to training.
On 25 September 2012 he made his professional debut for West Ham in a 4-1
home defeat to Wigan Athletic in the League Cup coming on as an 84th minute
substitute for Gary O'Neil. This season he played seven times for the
Development Squad, scoring once.

It is almost painful to watch this video which was made in September 2013
when Dylan thought he had beaten his cancer.

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West Ham and Australia have tragically lost an immense young talent in Dylan
Tombides
Apr 18, 2014 17:01
OPINION BY DANIELGARB

The Mirror

Fox Sports Australia's Premier League correspondent Daniel Garb tells us
about a great talent, sadly lost today at the tender age of 20. As an
Australian moving to London to work as Fox Sports' correspondent over here,
I naturally had to keep our audience up to speed with the progress of
Socceroos players plying their trade in the Premier League and Europe. But
equally, I kept an eye on the next generation of youngsters coming through
and Dylan was the pick of the crop. When I moved to the UK in 2011, he had
just been diagnosed with cancer, and I've been in touch with his family ever
since and throughout that time they have been a positive and supportive
pillar of strength for him during a difficult three years. Many times we had
organised things only to be prevented by another setback in his progress,
but as an engaging and bright young man he never let relapses and returns to
chemotherapy get him down.

I was talking to his mother three weeks ago about flying out to Germany,
where he was having his treatment, and doing a story with him. So to say
that this has completely taken everyone by surprise is an understatement.
There was no sign things would or could deteriorate this quickly. Dylan was
from Perth in Western Australia and his family is one with a strong football
tradition. His brother Taylor is on the books at Upton Park too, and his
family moved over here to further both of their careers. There was
indisputably a buzz around Dylan Tombides and he was tipped to be a star.
His amazing performances at the Under-17 World Cup in Mexico had caught
everyone's imagination, with him being tipped for a place at World Cup 2014
as early as 2011.

From then on, everyone was following his progress and knew of his potential,
not to mention his heart, which was seen around the world when he wished his
mum "Happy Birthday" via his shin pad during that 2011 World Cup. When
Holger Osieck was sacked in October last year, there was once more talk of
him being fast-tracked into the full national squad amid generational change
in the Socceroos setup. Of course, it was all reliant on his recovery from
testicular cancer, an illness through which West Ham have stuck by him
brilliantly. They knew how talented he was, as we did Down Under. The
reaction back home is absolute devastation. The Australian football
community is in complete mourning.

We know he will be remembered with a minute's applause at West Ham's game
with Crystal Palace tomorrow but it speaks volumes of his ability and
potential that games in the A-League finals this weekend - the most
important matches in the Australian soccer season - will honour a player
that never played a Premier League game or full international. It is with
such sadness that we will never see that immense potential realised.

Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this time.

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Hollywood legend Samuel L Jackson tweets tribute to tragic West Ham forward
Apr 19, 2014 05:18 By Sam Adams, Paul Gorst
The Mirror

Jackson posted a Tweet on his Twitter feed of the pair attending a cancer
awareness event in London last November.

Hollywood actor Samuel L Jackson has tweeted a picture of himself with
tragic West Ham youngster Dylan Tombides. The talented 20-year-old died
after losing his battle with cancer, the club announced yesterday. Jackson
posted a Tweet on his Twitter feed of the pair attending a cancer awareness
event in London last November. He said: "Gone too soon Dylan Tombides . It
was a pleasure to have met you. My thoughts are with your family." Dylan,
who was on the books at Upton Park prior to contracting testicular cancer in
2011, passed away on Friday morning. The youngster was known for his efforts
to raise awareness about the illness following his diagnosis, and he was
involved in several high-profile events alongside likes of Jackson and
snooker legend Jimmy White. The Londoners stated that the Australian was a
"larger than life character" who will be "hugely missed" by everyone
connected with the club. A statement on the club's official website read:
"West Ham United announce the sad news that forward Dylan Tombides has
passed away at the age of 20 following his brave battle with cancer. "Dylan
passed away on Friday morning with his family by his side having
courageously fought the disease for three years after initially being
diagnosed with testicular cancer in summer 2011. "Dylan was respected by
everyone who knew him for his intelligent views on the game and his larger
than life character. He was a loving son, amazing brother and well-respected
member of the West Ham squad. He will be hugely missed by everyone who had
the honour of knowing him."

Dylan made his first-team debut for the Hammers in a League Cup tie with
Wigan Athletic in September 2012. His death will be marked with a minute's
silence before the game with Crystal Palace this weekend.

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West Ham's Sam Allardyce says leaked line-ups are no big deal - it's
happened to him
Apr 18, 2014 22:30 By Phil Cadden
The Mirror

Sam Allardyce reckons leaked team line-ups are no big deal - and revealed he
has been on the receiving end himself this season. Allardyce's West Ham face
Crystal Palace on Saturday in a London derby, and counterpart Tony Pulis'
resurgent side are the subject of a Premier League investigation amid spying
claims by Cardiff. The Welsh strugglers believe their team was leaked to
Palace 24 hours before their league showdown on April 5. But the Hammers'
boss claims the same thing happened when Manchester United visited Upton
Park last month. Allardyce said: "I've experienced it and it is life. We
played here in training and there was a photographer in the garden taking
pictures of our team and they had our line-up before we played Manchester
United - to the man. "United assistant Phil Neville told me they had our
line-up anyway. It can happen in many different ways. I would like to find
the cameraman! "It doesn't make a lot of difference to me. In the days of
technology that we have now, predictive teams are a part of your job."

Allardyce does not believe Palace - now on 40 points - will face a major
sanction, such as replaying the game or a points deduction, even if they are
found guilty. He added: "You look at the situation and it depends what you
consider what the Premier League rules say. If they can prove it is the case
that somebody disclosed the team I don't think the punishment will be too
severe if they do get punished at all. "I can understand Cardiff being
upset, but I don't think the lengths they want the Premier League to go to
will happen."

Allardyce, whose side are one place and three points behind 11th-placed
Palace, confirmed defender James Tomkins will play after his trial for
alleged assault was delayed. He added: "James is having a very good season
and I don't think the case will affect him in any way, shape or form. He's
maturing and learning how to defend. "He has got better and more consistent.
I'm extremely pleased with his development this season."

Skipper Kevin Nolan is fit for the Hammers after missing the 2-1 defeat at
Arsenal in midweek with a hamstring injury.

* WEST HAM will hold a minute's applause before the match in memory of their
striker Dylan Tombides, who has died at the age of 20 following a
three-year battle with testicular cancer. Australian Tombides made one
senior appearance for West Ham in a League Cup tie against Wigan in 2012.

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