'It was nice to see one go in'
WHUFC.com
Gary O'Neil scored his first goal in a year to inspire West Ham United to a
valuable victory over West Brom
01.04.2013
Footage of West Ham United leaving the pitch after Saturday's 3-1 Barclays
Premier League win over West Bromwich Albion showed Gary O'Neil with a wide
grin on his face. O'Neil had good reason to be cheerful. The No32 scored his
maiden Boleyn Ground goal for the Hammers as Sam Allardyce's side took
another step towards safety. The midfielder's goal was also his first since
netting in the Championship victory at Peterborough United a year ago and
came two years after he suffered a career-threatening injury in a home
defeat by Aston Villa. O'Neil's 28th-minute strike put West Ham 2-0 up
against the Baggies and came courtesy of a technically superb first-time
right-foot curler into Ben Foster's top left-hand corner. "It was similar to
one I had up at their place this year that just missed the far post," the
29-year-old recalled to West Ham TV. "I can't kick it as hard as some of the
younger lads so I have to go for placement!
"It was nice to see one go in. It's about two years to the week since I got
my injury in the game against Aston Villa here, so it's nice to get a
Premier League goal. Obviously I got a couple in the Championship last year,
but it's nice to get back on the scoresheet in the Premier League."
Prior to his goal, O'Neil had also played a part in the Hammers' opener on
16 minutes, providing the inch-perfect corner for Andy Carroll to power into
the net with a trademark header. "Corners are something we work on because
we've obviously got a big side. If you get the delivery right, as I managed
to on the first one, Andy is going to be favourite. He was also unlucky with
the one in the second half that he got on the end of as well. "It's all
about the delivery because, if you can get it right, they are difficult to
defend."
O'Neil's fine defensive display helped West Ham to achieve an important
victory - one he hopes will propel the Hammers to a top-ten Barclays Premier
League finish. The No32 also revealed that the hosts' gameplan had worked
almost perfectly during a dominant performance. "We said before the game
that it was a big game for us - not for safety reasons but for the targets
we have set ourselves. We want be looking upwards and pushing into the top
half if we can. "It was a big game because West Brom have achieved that this
year. They have had a fantastic season and are on 44 points - a fantastic
tally - so to beat them so convincingly apart from the last 15 minutes when
it got a bit chaotic with injuries [to George McCartney] and the sending-off
[of Youssouf Mulumbu] and stuff, it was fairly comfortable. "It was a good
performance, especially the first half. We took our chances well and did
everything we had worked on. We knew they were going to sit off a bit so we
tried to drop balls into Andy and get balls wide to Jarvo and I thought it
worked quite well. "I've enjoyed it since I've been in there in that
slightly deeper role. I used to play there in the youth team so I knew I
could play in there. "It was probably a bit easier in the first half because
they only had two in the middle of the park, so we had the extra man which
gave me a little bit of space. The second half was a bit tougher and we were
defending a little bit more, but I've enjoyed my little role there so far."
After a difficult opening half to the season in terms of playing time,
O'Neil has taken advantage of an injury to the unfortunate Mark Noble to
impress in a defensive midfield role. "I just have to be slightly more aware
of the defensive side of things. Whereas when you are playing in one of the
two more advanced positions like Nobby [Kevin Nolan] and Mo [Diame], you can
get a bit carried away and make forward runs and follow the ball, which is
my tendency sometimes, I have to make myself aware of my new
responsibilities. "The lads behind me have been great. Winston [Reid] and
Ginge [James Collins] have been shouting at me non-stop 'left shoulder' or
'right shoulder' - there's always someone on one of my shoulders! "It's been
good and we've had some decent performances, barring Chelsea when I didn't
think we were too good. The other three games I have played in I have really
enjoyed."
Finally, one moment in Saturday's success that O'Neil did not enjoy quite so
much was the ball being booted into his backside by Baggies midfielder
Mulumbu. The incident saw the Congolese player dismissed by referee Andre
Marriner. "I caught his boot when I was chasing him. It was nothing
intentional, just one of those things, and he had probably trodden over me
all afternoon as well. "It was just one of those things that happens in
midfield and he just decided that he had had enough so he picked the ball up
and booted it at me. It was a strange little episode but at least we got the
three points."
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Ok, ok
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 1st April 2013
By: Staff Writer No.3
Barry Hearn may or may not have had another U-turn on the subject of the
Olympic Stadium. The day is young after all. However, we are pretty sure
that he hasn't arranged for the re-release of Snooker Loopy. We would
therefore unreservedly like to apologise for any distress and worry that the
prospect of being force fed a video of Sean Bean, Piers Morgan and the cast
of The Only Way Is Essex clutching headphones and singing along to a Chas &
Dave backing track might have caused anyone this April 1st. However, if it
turns up on the jukebox of the Boleyn Tavern which is being moved brick by
brick to the Olympic Park, we accept no responsibility at all. Ok?
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Paolo Di Canio - If He's Good Enough for Swindon...
By Iain Dale
West Ham Till I Die
I make a point of trying not to bring my politics onto this blog. It's meant
to be about football, not politics.But there are some rare times when
football and politics cross over. The appointment of Paolo Di Canio at
Sunderland seems to be one of those times. So today I wrote a blogpost on it
for my political blog at www.iaindale.com. Anyway, since it also concerns
West Ham, and the possibility of him becoming our manager, I have reposted
it, in its entirety, here.
Oh the hypocrisy of the Left. It was OK for Paolo Di Canio to play for
Sheffield Wednesday, Celtic, West Ham and Charlton. It was OK for him to
manage little old Swindon Town in League One, but oh no, the thought of him
managing Premier League Sunderland is repellent. No, I'll tell you what is
repellent – it's the so-called 'liberal left' deciding who should do what
based on whether someone conforms to their own idea of normality or
political acceptability. And then, only deciding to enforce their own
illiberal ideas when it suits them. Where were the howls of indignation when
Di Canio took over at Swindon Town? No one cared, because, well, it was only
little old Swindon, wasn't it?
Only it's not anymore. Its Sunderland. Big old Premier League Sunderland.
And poor 'ickle' David Miliband has spat out his dummy and resigned as Board
adviser. I'm not surprised. He was paid £75k a year for offering advice, and
if the Board asked him for his advice on their new manager, they clearly
ignored it. His friends are pointing out that Miliband resigned because his
parents were Jews who fled the Nazis. He issued a statement which said…
"In the light of the new manager's past political statements, I think it
right to step down."
I wonder how much time David Miliband invested in actually researching what
Paolo Di Canio believes. Did he actually look beyond the headlines, or did
he just write it in blind acceptance that Di Canio believes what he thinks
he does? I don't know if Paolo Di Canio is a Fascist or not, but surely
David Miliband understands there are some very marked differences between
Fascism and National Socialism. That does not mean that I have any sympathy
with anyone who has Fascist leanings, I do not. I regard the ideology as
politically repugnant and morally abhorrent. I wouldn't vote for a political
candidate with Fascist leanings, but we're not talking about an election
here, we're talking about football.
I'd like to think David Miliband might have taken some notice of people who
know Di Canio, people who count him as friends. Like Trevor Sinclair and
Chris Powell. Like the respected football writer Gabriele Marcotti. He told
5 Live: "I've known him very well for the last 15 years. There's no question
that he's not a racist. His record, his friendships, his relationships
pretty much speak for themselves. Marcotti is not some cheap tabloid
journalist looking for a headline. He is a serious writer.
Di Canio's former chairman at Swindon commented today…
"It is a sad knee-jerk response. I doubt David Miliband has ever met Paolo
Di Canio. I've known him for two years. I don't think politics was ever
discussed once. Paolo will have many strong views. He probably has a strong
view on whether Italy should be in the Euro, gay marriage or the endangered
Siberian tiger, but I doubt if it's really relevant to keeping Sunderland in
the Premiership. I think anybody's political views and their private views –
as long they're private and how they conduct themselves away from their job
– are pretty irrelevant. Nothing of that was ever discussed during his time
at Swindon. He was focused on success for us and that's what he'll do for
Sunderland."
Di Canio himself has released a statement, defending himself against
accusations of political extremism. Here's an extract…
"I don't have a problem with anyone. I haven't had a problem in the past and
I don't know why I have to keep repeating my story, to be defending myself
on something that doesn't belong to me every time I change clubs. "Talk
about racism? That is absolutely stupid, stupid and ridiculous. The people
who know me can change that idea quickly. When I was in England my best
friends were Trevor Sinclair and Chris Powell, the Charlton manager – they
can tell you everything about my character. "I don't want to talk about
politics because it's not my area. We are not in the Houses of Parliament,
we are in a football club. I want to talk about sport. I want to talk about
football, my players, the Board and the fans. My first priority is my family
and my daughters, that's obvious, and secondly to have the responsibility
for thousands of people. This is my priority and I want to be focused on
this aspect. I don't want to talk any more about politics – I am not a
politics person."
Let's cut out the moralistic crap we've heard today from the Telegraph's Dan
Hodges and others. It's the politics of the student union to talk about
'boycotting' Sunderland. Especially if you're not a Sunderland supporter. If
I were a Man U supporter, would I boycott them because their manager is a
devout left wing Socialist? Of course not. Would I boycott West Ham if they
appointed a Chinese Communist as manager? No. Because the club is always
bigger than any manager or player.
Paolo Di Canio is the greatest player I have ever seen in a West Ham shirt.
Some of his goals for the Hammers were truly breathtaking. He was an
inspiration. When he comes back to Upton Park nowadays and is spotted in a
corporate box, the crowd chant his name to the tune of Rigoletto. He will
always be a bit of a hero to us at West Ham. Many would happily have him
back as manager if Sam Allardyce comes to grief.
Sunderland fans have every right to question Di Canio's qualifications to
manage their club. He did very well at Swindon but his methods were, shall
we say, unconventional. They were methods which may have been acceptable in
a League One club, but time will tell how they translate to the Premier
League. If West Ham had been in Sunderland's position – and they very nearly
appointed Martin O'Neill two years ago – would I have wanted West Ham to
appoint di Canio? The truth is, no I wouldn't. He would be too much of a
risk. But it would have nothing to do with his political views (even if we
were certain as to what they were), it would be because of his managerial
unpredictability.
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Tony Cottee Interview Part 3: 'I Had No Doubts About Returning to West Ham'
By Iain Dale About 14 hours ago 6 comments
West Ham Till I Die
Let's talk about Everton. How different was it. When you arrived on the
first day was there part of you thinking, 'what the hell have I done?'
It was a culture shock. Listen, I'm a London boy, a cockney boy, a West Ham
boy. I had only ever known West ham. At the time it was a record transfer
fee. I had the option of Arsenal or Everton. To be really, really honest, if
you want me to be honest I will be, if Arsenal had come in and offered the
correct amount of money, then I would have probably signed for Arsenal
because I was a London boy. I knew that Everton were a great club, they were
flying high, they had won the League in 87. They had some fantastic players,
Sharpie, Reidy, Kevin Sheedy, Kevin Ratcliffe, Neville Southall, wonderful
players. I knew what there was up at Everton but I was a little bit
concerned because it was 200 odd miles away. If I was going to go to play
for Everton I couldn't commute backwards and forwards, I'd have to go and
live there. I'd be away from my Mum and Dad and the rest of the family…
Invest in some hubcap protectors…
Your words, not mine, Iain! There were a lot of things for me to be
concerned about. So the Arsenal move would have made sense. George Graham
was the manager, Arsenal didn't pay the big money and from a financial point
of view, I had to sign for Everton. That was the right move for me.
Also you weren't really a George Graham type of player, were you?
I don't know. Eventually he went out and bought Ian Wright. Arsenal fans
sometimes say to me, 'oh you should have signed for Arsenal' and I always
say 'well if had signed for Arsenal, you would never have got Ian Wright'.
It normally shuts them up because Ian Wright was a real hero for them. I
spoke to George, there were obviously problems with the manager. He tried to
sell the club to me, saying 'you'd be proud to play or Arsenal, wouldn't you
be proud to wear a blazer with the Arsenal Football Club badge on it?' I
looked at him and thought 'why? I'm a West Ham fan, why would I want to wear
an Arsenal blazer?' That was what I actually thought when he said it to me.
He didn't quite win me over. With Everton, Colin Harvey was the manager and
I looked at him and said 'Colin, why do you want to sign me?' He said 'I
want you to score 25 goals a season for me. I think we've got the players
who will give you the service, that's why I'm buying you.' It was music to
my ears. I wanted to go somewhere and be looked after and well thought of,
and being bought for the right reasons. I didn't want to chase full backs
around and be made to do what I wasn't good at. I wanted to do what I was
good at, which was to score goals. Ultimately, I think there was a clash
between what I had been used to at West Ham and the way Everton played their
football, but I still managed to score the goals for the club. I guess the
worst thing I ever did was to score a hat-trick on my debut. Where do you go
from there? The only possible way you can go is down.
Who was your best strike partner at Everton?
I had a great understanding with Graeme Sharp. He was a fantastic player to
play alongside. I loved playing with Peter Beardsley. I only had one season
with him but he was a dream to play alongside. He wasn't dissimilar to
McAvennie. Frank was very unselfish. He would work for the team. Frank
didn't mind passing to me and I'd have a tap in, whereas the other way
round, I'd run through and shoot, I wouldn't pass to Frank because I was a
selfish goalscorer. It was the same with Peter Beardsley. He would beat
three players, come up to the goalkeeper, square it to me and I'd tap it in.
Everyone would be cheering me and going mad, and yet I hadn't done anything.
But that has to be part of the striker's success – to be in the right place
at the right time. That's why you scored goals and someone like Iain Dowie
didn't.
Yes, it's about anticipation, a sixth sense, but you also have to keep
trying. When midfielder shoots at goal and the goalkeeper spills it and the
forward taps it in, it isn't about luck. You've got to be where the ball is
going to come out to. Whenever anyone had a shot at goal, my instinct was
always to follow up on the goalkeeper because he might spill it. Nowadays
you should do it even more because the ball is moving everywhere. Sometimes
you'd have to make a run eight or nine times and then all of a sudden the
goalkeeper would spill one, you'd tap it in and they'd say 'it's easy for
that Tony Cottee, isn't it?' but they never see what you do beforehand. All
the top strikers will do that. When the ball is bobbling around in the box
and everyone gets attracted to the ball, as a forward you think 'I might
just pull out here because the ball might come to me', and then the ball
comes and you tap it in. It's like Frank's goal against Chelsea. Everyone
goes to the ball and all of a sudden Frank is in acres of space and he heads
it in. It's anticipation, a sixth sense.
That's why Kevin Nolan scores so many goals isn't it?
Yes, he' got a knack of being in the right place at the right time.
How did the move back to West Ham come about?
I'd done enough at Everton. I'd been there six years. It was hard for me at
times, living up on Merseyside away from my family. I did miss the London
way of life. I lived in Southport for six years. My daughter was born there
- a really happy, fantastic time, living in a lovely house. There was a lot
going on that I knew would be difficult to get back in London. But when
you're a London boy and having been brought up in Essex, I really wanted to
come back home. I got a bit fed up when Mike Walker joined the club. He was
a poor manager. He didn't fancy me for whatever reason. There was a clash in
terms of what he wanted me to do, and what I wanted to do. At the start of
what was my 7th season at Everton we fell out. He put me in the reserves an
didn't want to play me. My agent said he would speak to a few London clubs
but I didn't in my wildest dreams ever think I would get the chance to go
back to West Ham. Then the agent came back and said Harry's looking for a
striker. It was all about timing and I went back in September 1994. When I
first left the club the fans were a bit 50-50 with me. Half of them
respected what I had done as a player and appreciated me as a goalscorer and
the other half – even though they felt that – thought they would give me
stick because I played for Everton and abandoned West Ham. The half that
were sceptical about me ever coming back to the club had to be won over. The
year before I came back, and dear old Bobby died they announced there would
be a charity game – West Ham v a Premier League Eleven. There was to be a
player from each Premier League club and I was determined I would be the one
from Everton. I was praying they would let me. Bobby Moore meant the world
to me anyway. I got chosen for the squad and thought 'Thank Christ for
that'. I'd probably been back and played at Upton Park three times by then
and had had a very mixed reaction. This time I thought I would find out what
the fans really thought of me. At the start of the game they read out all
the players and their clubs. When it got to Tony Cottee, Everton, I thought,
here we go. You had to stand forward and do a wave. The whole ground stood
and clapped, and it was like a welcome home thing for me. It was very
emotional. I played the game, scored the goal, we lost 2-1 and I knew after
that game that if ever the opportunity came to go back, I knew I would take
it.
Did you have any doubts about coming back? It doesn't always work does it?
No, there were no doubts. I spoke to Harry and when I met him it was fine.
When I went back not a lot had changed. Mind you, at the training ground not
a lot has changed now, has it?! Same old faces, same old training ground. I
knew what I was getting. It wasn't a journey into the unknown, it was a
journey back to what I knew. I knew that I would be fine. The only question
was whether I could recapture the form I showed in my first spell. I think I
was never going to be as prolific I was younger, fitter and faster then. I
came back from Everton a slightly different player – more of an all-round
player than the individual goalscorer that left West Ham. In some respects I
was a better player but I was never going to end up getting the 25 goals a
season that I got first time round.
You were there at the start of Harry's foreign invasion. What was that like?
It was different and a bit frustrating at times. Slaven Bilic and Marc
Rieper were great lads. Paulo Futre was a fantastic player, but he obviously
had injury problems when he came here, but what a talent. I just treated
them as an English or British player and tried to get them involved in the
banter. You can't have foreign players coming into a club talking in their
own languages and not being a part of what was going on. We were lucky at
the time. As well as the foreign players arriving we had the likes of
Dicksy, Don Hutch, Martin Allen, Ian Bishop. There were some real characters
in that dressing room so there was a really good team spirit. The foreign
players had to muck in. Slaven would sit in the back of the bus having a
beer and a smoke, as you could in those days.
Iain Dowie was there then. Why do fans forgive Andy Carroll for not scoring
goals, yet they wouldn't with Dowie. Because in some ways they are similar
players – prolific in the air, good at holding the ball up.
I think the players appreciated what Iain did. Emile Heskey is another good
example. I played with him at Leicester for three years and although the
Leicester fans appreciated him, I don't think England fans did, but you talk
to Michael Owen about him. He raves about him. He would say he was his best
ever strike partner, and he was one of my top three too. He would be right
up there. He used to work for the team. The fans don't appreciate players
like that because ultimately, if you're a forward you've got to score goals.
That's what you are on the pitch for. This applies to Andy now. The goal
return isn't there yet but he's doing other thing for the team, bringing
other people into play. West Ham fans really want him to get the goals
because then you've got the complete package, a real handful. Iain Dowie was
respected in a way. People respected his 100% attitude. It's a myth that
West Ham fans want 'total football' as their first criteria. I don't think
that's true. The first thing they want is someone to give 100% effort. If a
player doesn't try they will get on his back. You could never criticise Iain
Dowie for not giving 100%. OK, there were times when he didn't have good
games. He went a long, long time without scoring a goal, but you could never
fault his effort. That's what they see with Andy Carroll. They see the
effort, but not the end product.
What was Harry Redknapp like to play for? What were the good sides and bad
sides of Harry Redknapp?
I really enjoyed working under Harry. But by the time I left, I got the
impression you had a two year lifespan with Harry. My first season I was
God's gift to football, everything I did, he said 'fantastic Tone, best
finisher I've ever worked with' – he'd give me all that sort of stuff. But
in the second season he seemed to have some doubts about me and my ability
as a forward to score goals. I'd only just turned 30 and in today's terms
that's still a youngster. I think Harry had a doubt that I was the right man
to lead the line and get the goals. That season I was playing with Iain
Dowie and Iain wasn't getting the goals either. I got injured at the start
of my third season, a lot of foreign players had come in – Porfirio,
Radicoiou, Dumitrescu – and although none of them were scoring as many goals
as I was Harry discarded me a little bit too quickly. That applied to a lot
of other players too and that probably still applies to his management
style. You get two years to impress and after that he spins the wheel again
and gets someone else in. He very rarely keeps players for 4, 5 or 6 years,
not that he stays at a club for that length of time! Harry's style is to
spin as many players round as possible. Obviously that didn't suit me. I
think he made a mistake by selling me to Malaysia. As soon as I left West
Ham were in massive trouble and they needed a goalscorer, and he'd just sold
his goalscorer. He said at one point he did try to re-sign me from Malaysia
but whether he did or not I really don't know. But then he signed Hartson
and Kitson and got out of trouble. It was a bit of an odd thing to do to
sell me. I had been top goalscorer for the two seasons I was there. I was
fit. My sole objective at the start of every season was to be the top
goalscorer and I did it those two seasons.
You mentioned Hugo Porfirio there. I thought he could have been a world
class player, but he seemed to get ideas above his station and in the end he
disappeared into oblivion.
He was a good player but I wouldn't say he was anything exceptional. Dani
was another one. A pretty boy who arrived, played nine games and then
disappeared. It felt like it was a revolving door. Harry kept doing his
wheeling and dealing and when he left the club in 2001 it was undeniably in
a stronger position than when he took over from Bill in 1994. You've got to
say he was a success from that point of view.
Tony Cottee's new book WEST HAM: THE INSIDE STORY is available now in
paperback at £14.99.
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Red faced: Youssouf Mulumbu apologises for silly sending off in defeat at
West Ham
The Mirror
1 Apr 2013 22:30
Steve Bardens
Youssouf Mulumbu has apologised for his red-mist at West Ham after picking
the ball up and kicking it at Gary O'Neil. West Brom midfielder Mulumbu was
ordered off by referee Andre Marriner for his astonishing petulant act.
Congo international Mulumbu lost his rag with Albion trailing 3-1 in the
90th minute.
He now faces a three-match ban and fine for picking the ball up and lashing
it at midfield rival O'Neil. Mulumbu Tweeted: "I'm really sorry about what I
happen it doesn't look like me. Not a good example for the kids and all WBA
supporters." The midfielder however appears to have the backing of
team-mates. Albion keeper Ben Foster Tweeted him: "don't you worry about it
mate, you're Mr Professional, everyone slips up some times."
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Tuesday, April 2
Monday, April 1
Daily WHUFC News - 1st April 2013
Manager on Monday
WHUFC.com
Sam Allardyce has lauded Andy Carroll's efforts after his West Bromwich
Albion performance
01.04.2013
Sam Allardyce has tipped Andy Carroll to continue his sensational run of
form after his matchwinning performance against West Bromwich Albion on
Saturday.
The imposing striker had arguably his finest 90 minutes for West Ham United
since joining on loan from Liverpool last August, grabbing the first and
last goals in a 3-1 win. Although Carroll will be forced to miss the meeting
with his parent club on Sunday due to the detail of his loan deal, his
manager believes the quick succession of games to follow will provide a
platform for the 24-year-old to add to his five goals so far this season.
"His confidence will be sky high now he's started to score goals and that
was his first brace for us," Allardyce said. "I think it will kick him on
from here. It will fill him with great confidence and when the next chance
comes along he'll take it like he did his second goal, without thinking
about it. "He made it look so easy. The whole place, instead of erupting,
had a moment of silence because they couldn't believe how good that goal was
- and then they erupted into huge applause."
Indeed the brace demonstrated Carroll's full range of offensive
capabilities. The first was a trademark powering header from a Gary O'Neil
corner, for which there was ever only going to be one winner, and the second
was a stunning right-footed volley from James Collins' lobbed free-kick. "It
will be great for his confidence. It's not just the headed goal, it's the
volley. He's shown everybody his ability in its full light and his
capabilities of a footballer on the deck. He's got really good feet for a
big lad and really good change of direction. "He can be as good as he wants
to be. I can always make anybody better if they want to get better. It's my
job to support what anybody wants to do if they want to dedicate themselves
to the game. I'll be there for them for as long and as needy as they want to
be. "Everybody's dedication determines how good they want to be, we just
provide the service to produce the best of the ability that they've got."
Carroll has endured something of a stop-start beginning to his West Ham
United career after early hamstring and knee injuries, but his return to
form in recent weeks has coincided with an upturn in the Hammers' results.
After starting the last six fixtures, Carroll has now enjoyed his most
settled run of games since he arrived in east London, and Big Sam says he
can see his sharpness improving with every game. "The first thing was we had
to wait a long time to get him here. That wasn't able to be done because of
the negotiations that continued to be back and forth, back and forth.
Finally we clinched it but we missed a long time that he could have been
with us. Then, with his performance on his first game, I was looking to get
him off and just about to bring Carlton Cole on and he pulls a hamstring. So
he missed a few games. Then he came back and did his knee ligament and
missed some more games. "It was a real stop-start season. But now we're
seeing him game after game after game - and we're seeing the result of that
match fitness. It doesn't matter what you try and do in training. Games
give you that little extra. The match fitness gives you that little extra
bit of ability, of sharpness that we know he's got, and he's showing that
now."
With just six first-team games during February and March, the West Ham
United squad have had to remain professional and concentrate on some hard
work on the Chadwell Heath training pitches to keep their fitness levels up.
Their determination and focus was rewarded as Saturday's meeting with the
Baggies unfolded, and with no-one more so than Carroll. "It's about the
games and staying fit in training. We've had to train the players hard this
month because we've only had three games. We'd had our break in Dubai before
the start of this month. We got dealt the blow of not having the Manchester
United game because of the cup so we were only faced with three games this
month. "So we've had mini pre-seasons over the last few weeks because the
lads haven't had the games we wanted. I think as we've moved on, everyone
has picked up the level of fitness again as we would expect this time of
year. We don't expect our players to produce less physical performances, we
expect them to produce more."
Carroll is likely to start again in the Hammers' next home game, against
table toppers Manchester United, on Wednesday 17 April. Limited tickets
remain, click below to get yours.
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Loan round-up
WHUFC.com
A look at how West Ham United's loan players fared over the Easter weekend
31.03.2013
West Ham United's loan players were involved in a busy programme over the
Easter weekend, with Ravel Morrison catching the eye for Birmingham City.
The 20-year-old midfielder scored the Blues' third goal in their 4-0 romp at
promotion-chasing Crystal Palace on Good Friday, a result that took Lee
Clark's men into the top ten of the npower Championship table. Morrison has
now scored two goals in 20 league games during his loan at the St Andrews
club.
In the same division, Rob Hall linked up with Bolton Wanderers last week and
will be hoping to make his debut when they take on Huddersfield Town at the
Reebok Stadium on Tuesday night. Paul McCallum is currently on loan at
npower League 2 side Aldershot Town and they secured a 1-1 draw at Rochdale
on Friday. Hammers youngster McCallum came off the bench in the 65th minute
with his side 1-0 down, but Andy Scott's men recovered to take a point
thanks to Adam Mekki's 73rd minute leveller. The Shots are still stuck at
the foot of the table, however, and will be looking for a much-needed
victory when they host Oxford United on Monday.
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Macca delights in classy finishing
WHUFC.com
Assistant manager Neil McDonald was happy to see the Hammers take their
chances against West Brom
31.03.2013
Neil McDonald hailed the Hammers' clinical finishing, as three supreme goals
propelled them to a comfortable 3-1 Barclays Premier League win over West
Bromwich Albion. Andy Carroll netted for the third home game in succession,
as he thumped a first-half header past Ben Foster, before guiding home a
brilliant volley with ten minutes to play. In the intervening minutes, Gary
O'Neil swept home from the edge of the box, as Sam Allardyce's side
dominated proceedings against the Baggies. For Macca, there were no shortage
of reasons to be cheerful, not least the sight of a plan coming good and
reaping three precious points.
"We pressed them really, really well, tried to play high up the pitch and
put them under pressure," he explained. "That pressure paid off in the end
with the goals that we scored. It's pleasing when you have a game plan and
that works out and you carve out the chances as a result. We've been extra
clinical today, more so than we have been in the past, so that's another
pleasing aspect for us. "We created lots of chances today and fortunately we
scored three, which gave us a bit of a breather. We're a little disappointed
to concede, because we wanted to keep a clean sheet as well. But overall I
think the performance was really, really good and to score three goals
against a top-half team is excellent. "We've been looking up all the time.
You have to win your home games and pick up the odd point away from home,
which we did at Stoke. But winning those home games and keeping the
supporters happy is what we're trying to do. The home form is certainly
doing that, that's for sure."
The Hammers faithful were treated to three goals of the very highest quality
and McDonald was only too glad to pay tribute to the two goalscorers, both
of whom are enjoying a fine end to campaign. Though Carroll will be
ineligible for next weekend's trip to parent club Liverpool, Macca sees it
as the perfect opportunity for someone else to stake a claim. "That's a
couple of really good games Andy has got under his belt now and the goals
should give him confidence. When you're on the move inside the box it gives
you a chance to score goals and he has taken them very well. Another good
all round performance and that's what we've been looking for and that's
exactly what we want from the last eight games. "It's a shame that Andy
can't play at Liverpool, but they are the rules. It will give someone else a
chance and they will be coming into a team that's full of confidence after a
good win against a top-half Premier League team. "Gary's goal was brilliant.
He has been doing a little bit of that in training and it was no fluke. He
certainly aimed for that far corner. He has been playing well. He is keeping
the ball for us and passing the ball well to set us off on a forward motion.
That's why he's in the team. While West Ham were certainly impressive in
front of the opposition's goal, Jussi Jaaskelainen's contribution at the
other end was every bit as valuable, a point not lost on assistant boss
McDonald.
"Over the last six or seven games Jussi has been magnificent. He has been
making important saves which is great, and with him in that fine form it
gives us a chance to win games and certainly not lose them. Hopefully he can
keep that going until the end of the season."
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Late loss for Ladies
WHUFC.com
West Ham United Ladies suffered an agonising 2-1 home league defeat by
Reading on Sunday
31.03.2013
West Ham United Ladies suffered an agonising 2-1 home FA Women's Premier
League Southern Division defeat by Reading on Sunday. The Hammers took the
lead through Kelley Blanchflower's 29th-minute goal, only for Rebecca Jane
to level with nine minutes remaining and Cheryl Williams to complete the
turn-around in the second minute of added time. The defeat all but ends
Julia Setford's side's hopes of winning the title. West Ham are now 13
points behind leaders Millwall Lionesses with six matches remaining.
Millwall have just three games to play, but the odds on the Hammers
overhauling their local rivals have lengthened. West Ham will hope to get
back to winning ways when they host bottom side Queens Park Rangers at
Thurrock FC's Ship Lane stadium on Sunday 7 April, kick-off 2pm.
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Another U-turn from Hearn
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 1st April 2013
By: Staff Writer No.3
Barry Hearn has changed his mind yet again about the future of the Olympic
Stadium and has decided to fight on if, as expected, the forthcoming
Judicial Review into the award proceedings goes against him. Hearn's latest
of many U-turns appears to have been prompted by an overheard conversation
between Hammers fans debating on who should be honoured by statues in the
remodelled Olympic Park. Hearn said: "They were discussing statues to Bobby
Moore, Billy Bonds and the like and that annoyed me. "With the entrance to
the park only a few inches away from the Matchroom Stadium [Brisbane Road –
Ed] I thought there ought to be some representation of some of the greats
from Leyton/Clapton history. Like Laurie Cunningham. And that other guy."
And now Hearn's tactics to prevent West Ham United taking over the stadium
appear to have hit a new low. "We'll need funds to keep going if the
Judicial Review goes against us," Hearn announced. "So we'll be releasing a
re-recorded version of "Snooker Loopy" called "Olympic Loopy" as a
fund-raising single.
"Chas & Dave are working on the revised lyrics and we've already got
agreement from Sean Bean, Piers Morgan and some of the cast of "The Only Way
Is Essex" to appear on it once the backing tracks are ready. "With such a
cast of much-loved celebrities on board our cause will receive massive
publicity and a multi-platinum selling single will raise enough for us to
keep the argument alive for another year or two."
A club spokesman for West Ham United was suitably unimpressed with the
announcement. "I didn't buy the last one and we won't be letting Jeremy
[Nicholas] play it before matches, that's for sure."
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Di Canio returns - as Sunderland boss
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 31st March 2013
By: Staff Writer
Former Hammers favourite Paolo Di Canio has been appointed as the new
manager of Premier League strugglers Sunderland. The 44-year-old Italian was
confirmed tonight as the shock replacement for Martin O'Neill, who was fired
less than 24 hours ago following the Black Cats' recent slump in form and
slide towards the relegation zone. Sunderland Chairman Ellis Short, speaking
via statement on the the club's website, said: "Paolo is hugely enthused by
the challenge that lies ahead of him. He is passionate, driven and raring to
get started. "The sole focus of everyone for the next seven games will be
to ensure we gain enough points to maintain our top-flight status. I think
that the chances of that are greatly increased with Paolo joining us."
However the appointment of Di Canio has been far from universally welcomed.
Within minutes of his appointment, - local MP David Miliband - a
non-executive director at Sunderland - confirmed that he would be stepping
down from his role. "I wish Sunderland AFC all success in the future. It is
a great institution that does a huge amount for the North East and I wish
the team very well over the next vital seven games," he said. "However, in
the light of the new manager's past political statements, I think it right
to step down."
Miliband was of course referring to Di Canio's fascist leanings, which the
Italian has never sought to deny. He counts Benito Mussolini as one of his
idols and proudly displays the former Italian leader's name tatooed on his
arm. The former West Ham forward, who spent four years at the club between
1999 and 2003 begins his quest to save the Black Cats from relegation with a
trip to Stamford Bridge next weekend. Thereafter, Sunderland - who have
taken just three points from their last eight Premier League games - face
Newcastle (a), Everton (h), Aston Villa (a), Stoke (h), Southampton (h) and
Tottenham (a).
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Allardyce on... West Bromwich Albion
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 31st March 2013
By: Staff Writer
A happy Sam Allardyce reflects on the 3-1 win over WBA that edges West Ham
ever closer to Premier League safety. His full post-match press conference
for you exclusively here...
Sam: After a few early jitters it couldn't have gone much better for you
today, could it?
No. I think the only downside was George McCartney's injury which is a big
blow to both us and George, who's only just come back. He did the same
injury, his medial ligaments in his knee which is sad.
The overall performance today and the quality of the goals made it a great
day for us . The players were glad to get back - it's two weeks since
Chelsea - and show what they could really do again.
The last time we played here we had a fantastic game but ended up losing in
the last minute. This time we've played a fantastic game, scored three
fantastic goals and got a thoroughly deserved win.
The three goals were very different types. The quality of Andy's heading,
the ability of Gary O'Neil with a delicate chip and of course the
outstanding volley from Andy Carroll.
That shows it's not just about his aerial dominance but the overall ability
that Andy has. I don't think you'll see a better goal, a better volley or
better technique than that this season; [ball] over the shoulder, a right
foot volley - which is his weaker foot - into the bottom corner.
So a great result for us and a great performance that takes us ever closer
to that safety margin. We're looking forward now to Liverpool away next
week.
Is that the best West Ham have seen of Andy Carroll so far?
I think you'd have to say "yes", because he's put two goals on the end of a
good performance.
I think his good performances have been with us before; the fans have always
appreciated his ability here but he's shown them what he's all about today.
Not just his ability outside the box, but he also showed them his
goalscoring ability inside the box which he's been waiting patiently for.
I hope this is kicking him on to be a regular goalscorer for us in the next
eight games or so and upping his total as much as he can until the end of
the season. He's in a good frame of mind now.
Finally, after a long wait, his match fitness is there which is why I think
you're seeing the performances and the goals you're seeing. We've had to
wait a while for that but finally he's there - and he's enjoying himself,
which s more important than anything else.
Would you like to have him here full time? is there a possbility of that?
I think there's always a possibility you would look at, at the end of the
season. When we get down to budgeting and so on and so forth, and see what
negotiations can or can't be done then you'll have a look at anything and
everything that comes your way.
The end of the season comes and you don't really get a day off before the
bombardment of players' availablility comes your way - the endless texting
and emailing completely overwhelms you. That's why, as a manager, you've got
to delegate that off and filter through those processes.
But we will look at it at the end of the season, when we're safe, and see
what we need to do.
Would you like him to stay? Would you like him here?
I think the answer to that would be "yes", but there are a lot of things
that need to be done between now and then to make sure we can try and pursue
the transfer. I think we'll have to wait until the end of the season to see
what we can do.
Is George {McCartney] out for the rest of the season?
I would have thought so. It's a re-occurrence of the same injury which is a
very big disappointment for both him and us. It was so important that we
were 3-0 up when he had to come off as we'd used all our subs. What a blow
it could've been had it been any different.
We're disappointed for George because he's waited so long to get back and
was so eager to get on. We thought "let's give him a little run-out now",
save the lads who had done so well and get the subs on. Sadly, he goes down
with the same injury.
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The crippling cost of club membership
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 31st March 2013
By: Eastbourne Hammer
KUMB member Eastbourne Hammer, a Disabled Season Ticket holder has his say
over the club's decision to raise the cost of disabled season tickets by
more than 100 per cent. You may read the story to which EH refers here. I
know that we, as disabled fans, get a fantastic deal at the moment and that
we're very lucky in that. However, I also recognise that life is invariably
tougher and more costly for most disabled people and we need all the help we
can get. West Ham were up there with the very best on that side of things
and for that we were very grateful. Things are getting tougher economically
for everyone and belts need to be tightened. Except for Premier League
football clubs who are about to become even more obscenely wealthy from the
start of the 2013/14 season.
Which is, coincidentally, when the club intend to double the cost of
disabled tickets.
Of course it doesn't say they're doubling the prices, it just explains how
good we've had it, how generous the club are and how we'll now be charged
the same as a standard Band 4 ticket. But we still get our carers let in
with us. You know, those little luxuries who push the chairs of those of us
who can't get there without them. Well, I suppose someone has to keep our
Chairmen in expensive coats and furry hats, not to mention paying the
Nigella Lawson of the footballing world. I suspect few of you will be
bothered by this and many will just think, "well, they had it good anyway" -
but what worries me is not just the fact I'm now pretty much priced out of
more than a handful of games a season, it's why it is being done now.
Just before the move to an expensive, new stadium. Let's face it, disabled
spaces are a lot more costly to factor into a new design than standard
seating. So, our poor, down-on-their-uppers owners have decided the best way
to minimise demands for these tickets is a 'cripple tax'. Make those
b*stards pay for having the audacity to bring their own chairs with them! As
the club's letter says, "we have....avoided any increase for our disabled
fans wherever possible". What it doesn't say is "you're in the way of our
shiny new image, now **** off". But in essence, that's what Ms Brady is
saying to all of us in the 'cheap seats'.
So thank you, West Ham United, for doubling the cost of my visit just as you
get even wealthier. Although because we're disabled no-one will be too
bothered.
After all, we just make the place look messy, don't we?
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West Ham double disabled season ticket cost
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 31st March 2013
By: Staff Writer
Disabled season ticket holders have reacted angrily to news that the cost of
their season ticket at the Boleyn Ground will more than double next season.
West Ham have written to all disabled season ticket holders to confirm that
from the start of next (2013/14) season, season ticket prices will be
brought in line with Band 4 prices. And that represents an approximate 100
per cent increase for supporters, some of whom took to the KUMB.com forums
today to register their disgust at the huge price hike. "As the father of a
disabled daughter, times are very difficult for all and especially for
disabled people. I would like to see our chairman reconsider this increase,"
said MrMum. Whilst Glory Hunter wrote: "As much as I hate seeing the club
get a kicking (especially in the light of recent events), as someone with a
disabled father I know exactly how tough it is to survive on incapacity."
"Why the club has decided to implement this rise now has sinister
undertones," suggested Gerblatz. "Apparently the club have done this after a
'careful' ticketing review, which suggests it's quite deliberate. "I was
having a conversation this morning with a dad who takes his disabled son
over there. He was saying the increase for him is more like 125 per cent. Do
any fans think that's reasonable? What would be the response to this
ludicrous outrage if this was affecting the majority of fans?"
In their letter to supporters confirming the price hike, attributed to the
club's Disabled Liaison Officer Julie Pidgeon, West Ham wrote: "We have
always kept disabled ticket pricing extremely low for many years ensuring we
have consistently been amongst the cheapest in the Premier League and have
avoided any increases wherever possible.
"Following a careful ticketing review, in particular what we offer compared
to a number of other clubs in the Premier League and the Championship, the
club have made the decision that from the beginning of the 2013/14 season
all disabled match and season tickets will be charged at the cost of 'Band
4' tickets for each category of fixture."
For the current 2012/13 season, Band 4 season tickets were priced at £600
whereas season tickets for disabled fans cost just £290. Based on existing
prices, the price rise represents a 107 per cent increase.
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Sam Allardyce hoping to keep Andy Carroll at West Ham
Last Updated: March 31, 2013 2:35pm
SSN
Sam Allardyce would like to see Andy Carroll's loan agreement at West Ham
United made permanent at the end of the season. Carroll arrived at Upton
Park last summer on a deal from Liverpool which dictated that he would spend
the entire 2012/13 campaign in the capital. He has struggled with injury and
form at times with the Hammers, but has been firing on all cylinders again
of late and netted a crucial double in a 3-1 victory over West Bromwich
Albion on Saturday.
Allardyce had called on his strikers to start delivering prior to that
fixture, and he has now revealed that he is hoping to wrap up a deal for
Carroll when the transfer window re-opens. He said: "Would I like him here
next season? The answer is yes. "But there are a lot of things that need to
be done. We will look at that at the end of the season. There is always a
possibility. "Andy showed today that he is not just a threat in the air, but
is very good on the ground as well. His volleyed goal was fantastic
technique. "In fact, we scored three fantastic goals. I was delighted with
our display and it moves us closer to the 39 points that will make us safe."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Andy Carroll hopes his West Ham form will lead to England recall this summer
Last Updated: March 31, 2013 2:49pm
SSN
Andy Carroll hopes his improved end of season form with West Ham United will
give England boss Roy Hodgson something to think about. Carroll has endured
a tough time since joining the Hammers on loan from Liverpool, but he
terrorised the West Bromwich Albion defence on Saturday and scored two goals
in their 3-1 win. A bullet header and an exquisite volley showed off his
undoubted quality and he hopes to continue impressing to further his claims
in Hodgson's squad for summer friendlies with the Republic of Ireland and
Brazil. "I hope to play in every game for England but I've haven't been
picked, so I've just got to work hard here at West Ham and hopefully I'll be
involved next time," Carroll said. "I was putting myself about and got two
goals, so that's what I like to think I'm about. Obviously I like to score
goals, so getting two shows that I've got it. "I'm feeling good with the
lads and everyone is coming together and we're playing well at home. "It was
a great win. The lads worked hard and I got my two goals and we got the
three points, so it was a great day."
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Put Carroll back in, Roy
The Sun
By TOM BARCLAY
Published: 7 hrs ago
ROY HODGSON'S bad week at least had a happy ending as he watched Andy
Carroll destroy Albion. The England boss was left scratching his head on
Tuesday after the 1-1 draw in Montenegro left our hopes of World Cup
qualification hanging in the balance. But he would have been delighted with
Carroll's display as the striker at last showed the form that got him on the
plane to Euro 2012 at the last minute. The giant Geordie was back to his
bullying best, terrorising the Baggies defence all afternoon long with his
brute strength. Hodgson's side has been crying out for more options up top.
Carroll, 24, scored a super double — a signature bullet header and an
inch-perfect volley over his shoulder that Lionel Messi would have been
proud of. And team-mate and fellow goalscorer Gary O'Neil, who set up
Carroll's 16th-minute opener, said: "Hopefully Andy can force his way back
into the England squad. "You can hit it from anywhere, it doesn't have to be
a great ball but he makes it his own. He would definitely offer another
dimension. "He's a fantastic player. I think he gets a hard time because
he's a big lad and good in the air. "But he's got fantastic feet, works hard
and sometimes when you're under the cosh you can just bang it up to him.
"He's a great lad. He's done fantastically for us and, hopefully, he can
stay here."
Carroll is inconsistent but on his day — and Saturday was definitely his day
— he is unplayable. But West Ham must consider whether they really want to
part with the £17million required to sign him permanently. Against the meek
and mild partnership of Jonas Olsson and Gareth McAuley at the centre of the
Baggies defence, Carroll had a field day. Steaming into meet O'Neil's
pinpoint corner, the big man thundered a header past the helpless Ben
Foster. O'Neil's delicate chip from outside the box doubled the lead with
half an hour played. And Carroll rounded things off with a cracker. He
watched James Collins' free-kick over his shoulder before gracefully
crashing it into the far corner with his weaker right foot. Graham Dorrans
pulled one back from the penalty spot before Youssouf Mulumbu's brainless
dismissal for kicking the ball at O'Neil in injury time. Hammers boss Sam
Allardyce agreed with O'Neil that Carroll would be an asset for his nation.
He said: "Get him in. Even if he's only a sub for Roy, if you want someone
to hold the ball up and bring others into play and relieve the pressure,
he's fantastic. "There's not a lot of choice for Roy with English players
for front men and he's looking better and better. "It would be something
that lifts him and lifts the England squad. "He'll cause any defender at
international level problems if you deliver balls into the box to his feet
or his head."
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Hammer time! West Ham boss backs Andy Carroll for England after brace
against West Brom
The Mirror
31 Mar 2013 22:30
Steve Bardens
Sam Allardyce has given Roy Hodgson three words of advice on picking Andy
Carroll for England: "Get him in." The Three Lions boss was at Upton Park to
witness the on-loan Liverpool striker cap his best display in a West Ham
shirt with two top-class goals. The club future of Britain's most expensive
player remains uncertain. But the Hammers boss has no doubts about his
international potential. "Get him in, get him in," Allardyce said. "Even if
he's only a sub for Roy. If you want someone to hold the ball up and be a
target man and bring others into play and relieve the pressure, he's
fantastic at the minute. And he is looking better and better. "There's not a
lot of choice for Roy with English players for front men. I think it would
be something that lifts him and lifts the England squad. He shouldn't be
held down by the fact that people might say, like they do with me 'Oh, it's
long-ball'. It's not that. "He's a good hold-up player. He'll cause any
central defender at international level problems if you deliver balls into
the box to his feet or his head. As an alternative, what more could you ask
for?"
Carroll, who won the last of his nine caps against San Marino last October,
said: "I hope to play in every game for England but I haven't been picked,
so I've just got to work hard here at West Ham and hopefully I'll be
involved next time." Co-chairman David Sullivan says West Ham have an
agreement with Liverpool to sign Carroll at the end of the season. And
Allardyce wants to keep him. But the East London club's pursuit of Ivory
Coast striker Wilfried Bony shows he is not the only option. For most of his
injury-hit season, Carroll has been a let-down. Yet he again looked like the
old Newcastle striker against West Brom. His first goal was a classic
centre-forward's header from a Gary O'Neil corner. And after O'Neil scored
with a fine shot, Carroll secured the win which should ensure West Ham's
Premier League status with a classy finish. James Collins' free-kick was
allowed to drop in the Baggies box and Carroll converted with a superb
volley. "He made it look so easy," said Allardyce. "The whole place, instead
of erupting, had a moment of silence because they couldn't believe how good
that goal was – and then they erupted into huge applause."
Just desserts: Clarke backs Baggies fans' abuse of Odemwingie
From being serious European contenders, West Brom's season descended into
farce at Upton Park. Peter Odemwingie has gone from feared forward to cult
comedy figure following a previous trip to London and his Twitter rantings.
West Ham fans serenaded the Nigeria striker with the song: 'He went to QPR,
he stayed in his car' as the WBA sub warmed up. But while he got ironic home
applause when he entered the fray, Odemwingie was again abused by his own
fans. He will be sold in the summer - and cannot expect much support till
then. Manager Steve Clarke said: "The fans can react in any way they want."
Odemwingie has been fined for a second time by the club after complaining
about getting left on the bench for their previous four games. It's not
something I would do," said Ben Foster. "Pete has chosen to do it that way
and that's up to him." Fabrice Mulumbu then rivaled Odemwingie for daftness
with his late dismissal when he picked up the ball and kicked it at Gary
O'Neil. "He is silly and has just seen red," Foster added. "In sure it's
something he will look back on in the future and be - little bit ashamed
about. He is not like that. He is a good lad and such a thorough
professional. He is disappointed with himself. Everyone was a bit tired at
the end and he let his emotions show."
Still in eighth place, the Baggies need only three points from their
remaining seven games to equal their record Premier League points haul. But
they will have to improve on their West Ham display where Graeme Dorrans
netted a late penalty. "We are a bit shell-shocked," Foster admitted. "We
just weren't really up for it for some reason."
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
Sam Allardyce has lauded Andy Carroll's efforts after his West Bromwich
Albion performance
01.04.2013
Sam Allardyce has tipped Andy Carroll to continue his sensational run of
form after his matchwinning performance against West Bromwich Albion on
Saturday.
The imposing striker had arguably his finest 90 minutes for West Ham United
since joining on loan from Liverpool last August, grabbing the first and
last goals in a 3-1 win. Although Carroll will be forced to miss the meeting
with his parent club on Sunday due to the detail of his loan deal, his
manager believes the quick succession of games to follow will provide a
platform for the 24-year-old to add to his five goals so far this season.
"His confidence will be sky high now he's started to score goals and that
was his first brace for us," Allardyce said. "I think it will kick him on
from here. It will fill him with great confidence and when the next chance
comes along he'll take it like he did his second goal, without thinking
about it. "He made it look so easy. The whole place, instead of erupting,
had a moment of silence because they couldn't believe how good that goal was
- and then they erupted into huge applause."
Indeed the brace demonstrated Carroll's full range of offensive
capabilities. The first was a trademark powering header from a Gary O'Neil
corner, for which there was ever only going to be one winner, and the second
was a stunning right-footed volley from James Collins' lobbed free-kick. "It
will be great for his confidence. It's not just the headed goal, it's the
volley. He's shown everybody his ability in its full light and his
capabilities of a footballer on the deck. He's got really good feet for a
big lad and really good change of direction. "He can be as good as he wants
to be. I can always make anybody better if they want to get better. It's my
job to support what anybody wants to do if they want to dedicate themselves
to the game. I'll be there for them for as long and as needy as they want to
be. "Everybody's dedication determines how good they want to be, we just
provide the service to produce the best of the ability that they've got."
Carroll has endured something of a stop-start beginning to his West Ham
United career after early hamstring and knee injuries, but his return to
form in recent weeks has coincided with an upturn in the Hammers' results.
After starting the last six fixtures, Carroll has now enjoyed his most
settled run of games since he arrived in east London, and Big Sam says he
can see his sharpness improving with every game. "The first thing was we had
to wait a long time to get him here. That wasn't able to be done because of
the negotiations that continued to be back and forth, back and forth.
Finally we clinched it but we missed a long time that he could have been
with us. Then, with his performance on his first game, I was looking to get
him off and just about to bring Carlton Cole on and he pulls a hamstring. So
he missed a few games. Then he came back and did his knee ligament and
missed some more games. "It was a real stop-start season. But now we're
seeing him game after game after game - and we're seeing the result of that
match fitness. It doesn't matter what you try and do in training. Games
give you that little extra. The match fitness gives you that little extra
bit of ability, of sharpness that we know he's got, and he's showing that
now."
With just six first-team games during February and March, the West Ham
United squad have had to remain professional and concentrate on some hard
work on the Chadwell Heath training pitches to keep their fitness levels up.
Their determination and focus was rewarded as Saturday's meeting with the
Baggies unfolded, and with no-one more so than Carroll. "It's about the
games and staying fit in training. We've had to train the players hard this
month because we've only had three games. We'd had our break in Dubai before
the start of this month. We got dealt the blow of not having the Manchester
United game because of the cup so we were only faced with three games this
month. "So we've had mini pre-seasons over the last few weeks because the
lads haven't had the games we wanted. I think as we've moved on, everyone
has picked up the level of fitness again as we would expect this time of
year. We don't expect our players to produce less physical performances, we
expect them to produce more."
Carroll is likely to start again in the Hammers' next home game, against
table toppers Manchester United, on Wednesday 17 April. Limited tickets
remain, click below to get yours.
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Loan round-up
WHUFC.com
A look at how West Ham United's loan players fared over the Easter weekend
31.03.2013
West Ham United's loan players were involved in a busy programme over the
Easter weekend, with Ravel Morrison catching the eye for Birmingham City.
The 20-year-old midfielder scored the Blues' third goal in their 4-0 romp at
promotion-chasing Crystal Palace on Good Friday, a result that took Lee
Clark's men into the top ten of the npower Championship table. Morrison has
now scored two goals in 20 league games during his loan at the St Andrews
club.
In the same division, Rob Hall linked up with Bolton Wanderers last week and
will be hoping to make his debut when they take on Huddersfield Town at the
Reebok Stadium on Tuesday night. Paul McCallum is currently on loan at
npower League 2 side Aldershot Town and they secured a 1-1 draw at Rochdale
on Friday. Hammers youngster McCallum came off the bench in the 65th minute
with his side 1-0 down, but Andy Scott's men recovered to take a point
thanks to Adam Mekki's 73rd minute leveller. The Shots are still stuck at
the foot of the table, however, and will be looking for a much-needed
victory when they host Oxford United on Monday.
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Macca delights in classy finishing
WHUFC.com
Assistant manager Neil McDonald was happy to see the Hammers take their
chances against West Brom
31.03.2013
Neil McDonald hailed the Hammers' clinical finishing, as three supreme goals
propelled them to a comfortable 3-1 Barclays Premier League win over West
Bromwich Albion. Andy Carroll netted for the third home game in succession,
as he thumped a first-half header past Ben Foster, before guiding home a
brilliant volley with ten minutes to play. In the intervening minutes, Gary
O'Neil swept home from the edge of the box, as Sam Allardyce's side
dominated proceedings against the Baggies. For Macca, there were no shortage
of reasons to be cheerful, not least the sight of a plan coming good and
reaping three precious points.
"We pressed them really, really well, tried to play high up the pitch and
put them under pressure," he explained. "That pressure paid off in the end
with the goals that we scored. It's pleasing when you have a game plan and
that works out and you carve out the chances as a result. We've been extra
clinical today, more so than we have been in the past, so that's another
pleasing aspect for us. "We created lots of chances today and fortunately we
scored three, which gave us a bit of a breather. We're a little disappointed
to concede, because we wanted to keep a clean sheet as well. But overall I
think the performance was really, really good and to score three goals
against a top-half team is excellent. "We've been looking up all the time.
You have to win your home games and pick up the odd point away from home,
which we did at Stoke. But winning those home games and keeping the
supporters happy is what we're trying to do. The home form is certainly
doing that, that's for sure."
The Hammers faithful were treated to three goals of the very highest quality
and McDonald was only too glad to pay tribute to the two goalscorers, both
of whom are enjoying a fine end to campaign. Though Carroll will be
ineligible for next weekend's trip to parent club Liverpool, Macca sees it
as the perfect opportunity for someone else to stake a claim. "That's a
couple of really good games Andy has got under his belt now and the goals
should give him confidence. When you're on the move inside the box it gives
you a chance to score goals and he has taken them very well. Another good
all round performance and that's what we've been looking for and that's
exactly what we want from the last eight games. "It's a shame that Andy
can't play at Liverpool, but they are the rules. It will give someone else a
chance and they will be coming into a team that's full of confidence after a
good win against a top-half Premier League team. "Gary's goal was brilliant.
He has been doing a little bit of that in training and it was no fluke. He
certainly aimed for that far corner. He has been playing well. He is keeping
the ball for us and passing the ball well to set us off on a forward motion.
That's why he's in the team. While West Ham were certainly impressive in
front of the opposition's goal, Jussi Jaaskelainen's contribution at the
other end was every bit as valuable, a point not lost on assistant boss
McDonald.
"Over the last six or seven games Jussi has been magnificent. He has been
making important saves which is great, and with him in that fine form it
gives us a chance to win games and certainly not lose them. Hopefully he can
keep that going until the end of the season."
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Late loss for Ladies
WHUFC.com
West Ham United Ladies suffered an agonising 2-1 home league defeat by
Reading on Sunday
31.03.2013
West Ham United Ladies suffered an agonising 2-1 home FA Women's Premier
League Southern Division defeat by Reading on Sunday. The Hammers took the
lead through Kelley Blanchflower's 29th-minute goal, only for Rebecca Jane
to level with nine minutes remaining and Cheryl Williams to complete the
turn-around in the second minute of added time. The defeat all but ends
Julia Setford's side's hopes of winning the title. West Ham are now 13
points behind leaders Millwall Lionesses with six matches remaining.
Millwall have just three games to play, but the odds on the Hammers
overhauling their local rivals have lengthened. West Ham will hope to get
back to winning ways when they host bottom side Queens Park Rangers at
Thurrock FC's Ship Lane stadium on Sunday 7 April, kick-off 2pm.
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Another U-turn from Hearn
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 1st April 2013
By: Staff Writer No.3
Barry Hearn has changed his mind yet again about the future of the Olympic
Stadium and has decided to fight on if, as expected, the forthcoming
Judicial Review into the award proceedings goes against him. Hearn's latest
of many U-turns appears to have been prompted by an overheard conversation
between Hammers fans debating on who should be honoured by statues in the
remodelled Olympic Park. Hearn said: "They were discussing statues to Bobby
Moore, Billy Bonds and the like and that annoyed me. "With the entrance to
the park only a few inches away from the Matchroom Stadium [Brisbane Road –
Ed] I thought there ought to be some representation of some of the greats
from Leyton/Clapton history. Like Laurie Cunningham. And that other guy."
And now Hearn's tactics to prevent West Ham United taking over the stadium
appear to have hit a new low. "We'll need funds to keep going if the
Judicial Review goes against us," Hearn announced. "So we'll be releasing a
re-recorded version of "Snooker Loopy" called "Olympic Loopy" as a
fund-raising single.
"Chas & Dave are working on the revised lyrics and we've already got
agreement from Sean Bean, Piers Morgan and some of the cast of "The Only Way
Is Essex" to appear on it once the backing tracks are ready. "With such a
cast of much-loved celebrities on board our cause will receive massive
publicity and a multi-platinum selling single will raise enough for us to
keep the argument alive for another year or two."
A club spokesman for West Ham United was suitably unimpressed with the
announcement. "I didn't buy the last one and we won't be letting Jeremy
[Nicholas] play it before matches, that's for sure."
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Di Canio returns - as Sunderland boss
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 31st March 2013
By: Staff Writer
Former Hammers favourite Paolo Di Canio has been appointed as the new
manager of Premier League strugglers Sunderland. The 44-year-old Italian was
confirmed tonight as the shock replacement for Martin O'Neill, who was fired
less than 24 hours ago following the Black Cats' recent slump in form and
slide towards the relegation zone. Sunderland Chairman Ellis Short, speaking
via statement on the the club's website, said: "Paolo is hugely enthused by
the challenge that lies ahead of him. He is passionate, driven and raring to
get started. "The sole focus of everyone for the next seven games will be
to ensure we gain enough points to maintain our top-flight status. I think
that the chances of that are greatly increased with Paolo joining us."
However the appointment of Di Canio has been far from universally welcomed.
Within minutes of his appointment, - local MP David Miliband - a
non-executive director at Sunderland - confirmed that he would be stepping
down from his role. "I wish Sunderland AFC all success in the future. It is
a great institution that does a huge amount for the North East and I wish
the team very well over the next vital seven games," he said. "However, in
the light of the new manager's past political statements, I think it right
to step down."
Miliband was of course referring to Di Canio's fascist leanings, which the
Italian has never sought to deny. He counts Benito Mussolini as one of his
idols and proudly displays the former Italian leader's name tatooed on his
arm. The former West Ham forward, who spent four years at the club between
1999 and 2003 begins his quest to save the Black Cats from relegation with a
trip to Stamford Bridge next weekend. Thereafter, Sunderland - who have
taken just three points from their last eight Premier League games - face
Newcastle (a), Everton (h), Aston Villa (a), Stoke (h), Southampton (h) and
Tottenham (a).
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Allardyce on... West Bromwich Albion
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 31st March 2013
By: Staff Writer
A happy Sam Allardyce reflects on the 3-1 win over WBA that edges West Ham
ever closer to Premier League safety. His full post-match press conference
for you exclusively here...
Sam: After a few early jitters it couldn't have gone much better for you
today, could it?
No. I think the only downside was George McCartney's injury which is a big
blow to both us and George, who's only just come back. He did the same
injury, his medial ligaments in his knee which is sad.
The overall performance today and the quality of the goals made it a great
day for us . The players were glad to get back - it's two weeks since
Chelsea - and show what they could really do again.
The last time we played here we had a fantastic game but ended up losing in
the last minute. This time we've played a fantastic game, scored three
fantastic goals and got a thoroughly deserved win.
The three goals were very different types. The quality of Andy's heading,
the ability of Gary O'Neil with a delicate chip and of course the
outstanding volley from Andy Carroll.
That shows it's not just about his aerial dominance but the overall ability
that Andy has. I don't think you'll see a better goal, a better volley or
better technique than that this season; [ball] over the shoulder, a right
foot volley - which is his weaker foot - into the bottom corner.
So a great result for us and a great performance that takes us ever closer
to that safety margin. We're looking forward now to Liverpool away next
week.
Is that the best West Ham have seen of Andy Carroll so far?
I think you'd have to say "yes", because he's put two goals on the end of a
good performance.
I think his good performances have been with us before; the fans have always
appreciated his ability here but he's shown them what he's all about today.
Not just his ability outside the box, but he also showed them his
goalscoring ability inside the box which he's been waiting patiently for.
I hope this is kicking him on to be a regular goalscorer for us in the next
eight games or so and upping his total as much as he can until the end of
the season. He's in a good frame of mind now.
Finally, after a long wait, his match fitness is there which is why I think
you're seeing the performances and the goals you're seeing. We've had to
wait a while for that but finally he's there - and he's enjoying himself,
which s more important than anything else.
Would you like to have him here full time? is there a possbility of that?
I think there's always a possibility you would look at, at the end of the
season. When we get down to budgeting and so on and so forth, and see what
negotiations can or can't be done then you'll have a look at anything and
everything that comes your way.
The end of the season comes and you don't really get a day off before the
bombardment of players' availablility comes your way - the endless texting
and emailing completely overwhelms you. That's why, as a manager, you've got
to delegate that off and filter through those processes.
But we will look at it at the end of the season, when we're safe, and see
what we need to do.
Would you like him to stay? Would you like him here?
I think the answer to that would be "yes", but there are a lot of things
that need to be done between now and then to make sure we can try and pursue
the transfer. I think we'll have to wait until the end of the season to see
what we can do.
Is George {McCartney] out for the rest of the season?
I would have thought so. It's a re-occurrence of the same injury which is a
very big disappointment for both him and us. It was so important that we
were 3-0 up when he had to come off as we'd used all our subs. What a blow
it could've been had it been any different.
We're disappointed for George because he's waited so long to get back and
was so eager to get on. We thought "let's give him a little run-out now",
save the lads who had done so well and get the subs on. Sadly, he goes down
with the same injury.
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The crippling cost of club membership
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 31st March 2013
By: Eastbourne Hammer
KUMB member Eastbourne Hammer, a Disabled Season Ticket holder has his say
over the club's decision to raise the cost of disabled season tickets by
more than 100 per cent. You may read the story to which EH refers here. I
know that we, as disabled fans, get a fantastic deal at the moment and that
we're very lucky in that. However, I also recognise that life is invariably
tougher and more costly for most disabled people and we need all the help we
can get. West Ham were up there with the very best on that side of things
and for that we were very grateful. Things are getting tougher economically
for everyone and belts need to be tightened. Except for Premier League
football clubs who are about to become even more obscenely wealthy from the
start of the 2013/14 season.
Which is, coincidentally, when the club intend to double the cost of
disabled tickets.
Of course it doesn't say they're doubling the prices, it just explains how
good we've had it, how generous the club are and how we'll now be charged
the same as a standard Band 4 ticket. But we still get our carers let in
with us. You know, those little luxuries who push the chairs of those of us
who can't get there without them. Well, I suppose someone has to keep our
Chairmen in expensive coats and furry hats, not to mention paying the
Nigella Lawson of the footballing world. I suspect few of you will be
bothered by this and many will just think, "well, they had it good anyway" -
but what worries me is not just the fact I'm now pretty much priced out of
more than a handful of games a season, it's why it is being done now.
Just before the move to an expensive, new stadium. Let's face it, disabled
spaces are a lot more costly to factor into a new design than standard
seating. So, our poor, down-on-their-uppers owners have decided the best way
to minimise demands for these tickets is a 'cripple tax'. Make those
b*stards pay for having the audacity to bring their own chairs with them! As
the club's letter says, "we have....avoided any increase for our disabled
fans wherever possible". What it doesn't say is "you're in the way of our
shiny new image, now **** off". But in essence, that's what Ms Brady is
saying to all of us in the 'cheap seats'.
So thank you, West Ham United, for doubling the cost of my visit just as you
get even wealthier. Although because we're disabled no-one will be too
bothered.
After all, we just make the place look messy, don't we?
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West Ham double disabled season ticket cost
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 31st March 2013
By: Staff Writer
Disabled season ticket holders have reacted angrily to news that the cost of
their season ticket at the Boleyn Ground will more than double next season.
West Ham have written to all disabled season ticket holders to confirm that
from the start of next (2013/14) season, season ticket prices will be
brought in line with Band 4 prices. And that represents an approximate 100
per cent increase for supporters, some of whom took to the KUMB.com forums
today to register their disgust at the huge price hike. "As the father of a
disabled daughter, times are very difficult for all and especially for
disabled people. I would like to see our chairman reconsider this increase,"
said MrMum. Whilst Glory Hunter wrote: "As much as I hate seeing the club
get a kicking (especially in the light of recent events), as someone with a
disabled father I know exactly how tough it is to survive on incapacity."
"Why the club has decided to implement this rise now has sinister
undertones," suggested Gerblatz. "Apparently the club have done this after a
'careful' ticketing review, which suggests it's quite deliberate. "I was
having a conversation this morning with a dad who takes his disabled son
over there. He was saying the increase for him is more like 125 per cent. Do
any fans think that's reasonable? What would be the response to this
ludicrous outrage if this was affecting the majority of fans?"
In their letter to supporters confirming the price hike, attributed to the
club's Disabled Liaison Officer Julie Pidgeon, West Ham wrote: "We have
always kept disabled ticket pricing extremely low for many years ensuring we
have consistently been amongst the cheapest in the Premier League and have
avoided any increases wherever possible.
"Following a careful ticketing review, in particular what we offer compared
to a number of other clubs in the Premier League and the Championship, the
club have made the decision that from the beginning of the 2013/14 season
all disabled match and season tickets will be charged at the cost of 'Band
4' tickets for each category of fixture."
For the current 2012/13 season, Band 4 season tickets were priced at £600
whereas season tickets for disabled fans cost just £290. Based on existing
prices, the price rise represents a 107 per cent increase.
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Sam Allardyce hoping to keep Andy Carroll at West Ham
Last Updated: March 31, 2013 2:35pm
SSN
Sam Allardyce would like to see Andy Carroll's loan agreement at West Ham
United made permanent at the end of the season. Carroll arrived at Upton
Park last summer on a deal from Liverpool which dictated that he would spend
the entire 2012/13 campaign in the capital. He has struggled with injury and
form at times with the Hammers, but has been firing on all cylinders again
of late and netted a crucial double in a 3-1 victory over West Bromwich
Albion on Saturday.
Allardyce had called on his strikers to start delivering prior to that
fixture, and he has now revealed that he is hoping to wrap up a deal for
Carroll when the transfer window re-opens. He said: "Would I like him here
next season? The answer is yes. "But there are a lot of things that need to
be done. We will look at that at the end of the season. There is always a
possibility. "Andy showed today that he is not just a threat in the air, but
is very good on the ground as well. His volleyed goal was fantastic
technique. "In fact, we scored three fantastic goals. I was delighted with
our display and it moves us closer to the 39 points that will make us safe."
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Andy Carroll hopes his West Ham form will lead to England recall this summer
Last Updated: March 31, 2013 2:49pm
SSN
Andy Carroll hopes his improved end of season form with West Ham United will
give England boss Roy Hodgson something to think about. Carroll has endured
a tough time since joining the Hammers on loan from Liverpool, but he
terrorised the West Bromwich Albion defence on Saturday and scored two goals
in their 3-1 win. A bullet header and an exquisite volley showed off his
undoubted quality and he hopes to continue impressing to further his claims
in Hodgson's squad for summer friendlies with the Republic of Ireland and
Brazil. "I hope to play in every game for England but I've haven't been
picked, so I've just got to work hard here at West Ham and hopefully I'll be
involved next time," Carroll said. "I was putting myself about and got two
goals, so that's what I like to think I'm about. Obviously I like to score
goals, so getting two shows that I've got it. "I'm feeling good with the
lads and everyone is coming together and we're playing well at home. "It was
a great win. The lads worked hard and I got my two goals and we got the
three points, so it was a great day."
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Put Carroll back in, Roy
The Sun
By TOM BARCLAY
Published: 7 hrs ago
ROY HODGSON'S bad week at least had a happy ending as he watched Andy
Carroll destroy Albion. The England boss was left scratching his head on
Tuesday after the 1-1 draw in Montenegro left our hopes of World Cup
qualification hanging in the balance. But he would have been delighted with
Carroll's display as the striker at last showed the form that got him on the
plane to Euro 2012 at the last minute. The giant Geordie was back to his
bullying best, terrorising the Baggies defence all afternoon long with his
brute strength. Hodgson's side has been crying out for more options up top.
Carroll, 24, scored a super double — a signature bullet header and an
inch-perfect volley over his shoulder that Lionel Messi would have been
proud of. And team-mate and fellow goalscorer Gary O'Neil, who set up
Carroll's 16th-minute opener, said: "Hopefully Andy can force his way back
into the England squad. "You can hit it from anywhere, it doesn't have to be
a great ball but he makes it his own. He would definitely offer another
dimension. "He's a fantastic player. I think he gets a hard time because
he's a big lad and good in the air. "But he's got fantastic feet, works hard
and sometimes when you're under the cosh you can just bang it up to him.
"He's a great lad. He's done fantastically for us and, hopefully, he can
stay here."
Carroll is inconsistent but on his day — and Saturday was definitely his day
— he is unplayable. But West Ham must consider whether they really want to
part with the £17million required to sign him permanently. Against the meek
and mild partnership of Jonas Olsson and Gareth McAuley at the centre of the
Baggies defence, Carroll had a field day. Steaming into meet O'Neil's
pinpoint corner, the big man thundered a header past the helpless Ben
Foster. O'Neil's delicate chip from outside the box doubled the lead with
half an hour played. And Carroll rounded things off with a cracker. He
watched James Collins' free-kick over his shoulder before gracefully
crashing it into the far corner with his weaker right foot. Graham Dorrans
pulled one back from the penalty spot before Youssouf Mulumbu's brainless
dismissal for kicking the ball at O'Neil in injury time. Hammers boss Sam
Allardyce agreed with O'Neil that Carroll would be an asset for his nation.
He said: "Get him in. Even if he's only a sub for Roy, if you want someone
to hold the ball up and bring others into play and relieve the pressure,
he's fantastic. "There's not a lot of choice for Roy with English players
for front men and he's looking better and better. "It would be something
that lifts him and lifts the England squad. "He'll cause any defender at
international level problems if you deliver balls into the box to his feet
or his head."
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Hammer time! West Ham boss backs Andy Carroll for England after brace
against West Brom
The Mirror
31 Mar 2013 22:30
Steve Bardens
Sam Allardyce has given Roy Hodgson three words of advice on picking Andy
Carroll for England: "Get him in." The Three Lions boss was at Upton Park to
witness the on-loan Liverpool striker cap his best display in a West Ham
shirt with two top-class goals. The club future of Britain's most expensive
player remains uncertain. But the Hammers boss has no doubts about his
international potential. "Get him in, get him in," Allardyce said. "Even if
he's only a sub for Roy. If you want someone to hold the ball up and be a
target man and bring others into play and relieve the pressure, he's
fantastic at the minute. And he is looking better and better. "There's not a
lot of choice for Roy with English players for front men. I think it would
be something that lifts him and lifts the England squad. He shouldn't be
held down by the fact that people might say, like they do with me 'Oh, it's
long-ball'. It's not that. "He's a good hold-up player. He'll cause any
central defender at international level problems if you deliver balls into
the box to his feet or his head. As an alternative, what more could you ask
for?"
Carroll, who won the last of his nine caps against San Marino last October,
said: "I hope to play in every game for England but I haven't been picked,
so I've just got to work hard here at West Ham and hopefully I'll be
involved next time." Co-chairman David Sullivan says West Ham have an
agreement with Liverpool to sign Carroll at the end of the season. And
Allardyce wants to keep him. But the East London club's pursuit of Ivory
Coast striker Wilfried Bony shows he is not the only option. For most of his
injury-hit season, Carroll has been a let-down. Yet he again looked like the
old Newcastle striker against West Brom. His first goal was a classic
centre-forward's header from a Gary O'Neil corner. And after O'Neil scored
with a fine shot, Carroll secured the win which should ensure West Ham's
Premier League status with a classy finish. James Collins' free-kick was
allowed to drop in the Baggies box and Carroll converted with a superb
volley. "He made it look so easy," said Allardyce. "The whole place, instead
of erupting, had a moment of silence because they couldn't believe how good
that goal was – and then they erupted into huge applause."
Just desserts: Clarke backs Baggies fans' abuse of Odemwingie
From being serious European contenders, West Brom's season descended into
farce at Upton Park. Peter Odemwingie has gone from feared forward to cult
comedy figure following a previous trip to London and his Twitter rantings.
West Ham fans serenaded the Nigeria striker with the song: 'He went to QPR,
he stayed in his car' as the WBA sub warmed up. But while he got ironic home
applause when he entered the fray, Odemwingie was again abused by his own
fans. He will be sold in the summer - and cannot expect much support till
then. Manager Steve Clarke said: "The fans can react in any way they want."
Odemwingie has been fined for a second time by the club after complaining
about getting left on the bench for their previous four games. It's not
something I would do," said Ben Foster. "Pete has chosen to do it that way
and that's up to him." Fabrice Mulumbu then rivaled Odemwingie for daftness
with his late dismissal when he picked up the ball and kicked it at Gary
O'Neil. "He is silly and has just seen red," Foster added. "In sure it's
something he will look back on in the future and be - little bit ashamed
about. He is not like that. He is a good lad and such a thorough
professional. He is disappointed with himself. Everyone was a bit tired at
the end and he let his emotions show."
Still in eighth place, the Baggies need only three points from their
remaining seven games to equal their record Premier League points haul. But
they will have to improve on their West Ham display where Graeme Dorrans
netted a late penalty. "We are a bit shell-shocked," Foster admitted. "We
just weren't really up for it for some reason."
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Sunday, March 31
Daily WHUFC News - 31st March 2013
Carroll brace downs Baggies
WHUFC.com
West Ham United defeated West Bromwich Albion 3-1 at the Boleyn Ground on
Saturday
30.03.2013
Andy Carroll notched a brace as West Ham United moved back towards the top
half of the Barclays Premier League with a 3-1 victory over West Bromwich
Albion at the Boleyn Ground on Saturday. Carroll's double showcased the
range of his abilities - the first a towering header, the second a stunning
volley - as West Ham found the ruthless touch manager Sam Allardyce called
for pre-match. The big Geordie's goals sandwiched a fine strike from Gary
O'Neil, meaning Graham Dorrans' late penalty for West Brom counted for
little. Youssouf Mulumbu was dismissed late on after taking the bizarre
decision to pick up the ball and smash it at Gary O'Neil, as the Baggies
left east London well beaten. The Hammers had an early scare when Gareth
McAuley forced Chris Brunt's seventh minute corner over the line, but the
visitors' centre back had clearly pushed Jussi Jaaskelainen in his efforts
to reach the ball and referee Andre Marriner chalked his effort off.
Jaaskelainen then had to make a fine save, readjusting his balance in the
blink of an eye to react to a deflection of Romelu Lukaku's free kick from
its original path and touch the ball onto the post. West Ham were also
looking lively in an open start and it was Allardyce's men who were
celebrating the opening goal with 16 minutes on the clock. Carroll was the
goalscorer, leaping imperiously above Jonas Olsson to meet Gary O'Neil's
inswinging left-wing corner with a thumping header beyond Ben Foster. The
Hammers went close to doubling their advantage twice within the next five
minutes, Mohamed Diame sending in a 20-yard drive that whistled inches over
the top, then Matt Jarvis volleyed too high from close in after Carroll
flicked James Collins' deep free kick on. The home crowd did not have to
wait long for a second West Ham goal though, with O'Neil notching his first
in more than a year 17 minutes before the interval. It was worth the wait
too, as the midfielder swept a 20-yard shot above Ben Foster and into the
left hand corner of the net after his team broke swiftly from a Baggies free
kick for Ricardo Vaz Te to lay across for O'Neil.
Jaaskelainen had to deal with a low drive from Dorrans before the break, but
the Hammers were looking in the mood and were well worthy of their half time
advantage. West Brom were an improved force in the second half, with West
Ham finding it harder to attack their visitors with such fluency. Three
minutes after the restart Lukaku ran across the face of the Hammers'
backline before unleashing a strong shot from the edge of the box which only
just cleared the crossbar. Right back Billy Jones had to be denied by
Jaaskelainen after making a piercing run towards goal, then James Collins
flew out to meet Peter Odemwingie and make a super block after the Albion
sub made his way past Joey O'Brien. But West Ham took stock and killed the
game off ten minutes from time and again it was a goal of real quality.
Carroll showed impeccable technique to watch Collins' lofted free kick drop
over his shoulder and then guide a wonderfully controlled volley past
Foster's dive. West Brom pulled one back two minutes from the end when they
were awarded a spot kick for a nudge on Lukaku by Matt Taylor and Dorrans
blasted the penalty home, The Baggies' spirits were not to be lifted though,
and their miserable afternoon was compounded in the dying seconds when
Mulumbu saw red in extraordinary circumstances, picking the ball up as it
was in play and blasting it at O'Neil from close range. Referee Marriner had
no hesitation in brandishing a red card and the Hammers saw out the
remaining time to register their tenth league win of the campaign.
West Ham United: Jaaskelainen; Demel (McCartney 79), Collins, Reid, O'Brien;
Nolan (Taylor 69), O'Neil, Diame (Collison 82); Vaz Te, Carroll, Jarvis
Subs: Henderson (GK), Tomkins, C.Cole, Chamakh
Goals: Carroll 16, O'Neil 28, Carroll 80
Booked: Reid
West Bromwich Albion: Foster; Jones, McAuley, Olsson, Ridgewell; Mulumbu,
Yacob (Odemwingie 71), Brunt; Dorrans (Fortune 88), Lukaku, Long (Rosenberg
71)
Subs: Myhill (GK), Popov, Thomas, Tamas
Goal: Dorrans pen 88
Booked: Long
Sent off: Mulumbu
Referee: Andre Marriner
Attendance: 34,966
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Jussi savours Baggies win
WHUFC.com
February's SBOBET Player of the Month revels in the Hammers' 3-1 win over
West Bromwich Albion
31.03.2013
West Ham United may have been in a position of relative comfort as they
completed a 3-1 victory over West Bromwich Albion on Saturday, but if it had
not been for an early intervention from goalkeeper Jussi Jaaskelainen, the
outcome could have been very different. The Finnish goalkeeper made an
outstanding stop on 14 minutes with the scoresheet still blank, shifting his
weight back in the opposite direction to which he had started moving after
Romelu Lukaku's free kick took a deflection off Gary O'Neil. Jaaskelainen
managed to get down to his right and push the ball onto the post, with West
Ham making full use of his save by opening the scoring through Andy Carroll
just two minutes later. After picking up the SBOBET Player of the Month
award for February pre-match, Jaaskelainen was delighted to round off a fine
day by claiming maximum points. Speaking about his early save, he told West
Ham TV: "At the end of the day that's my job as goalkeeper, to help the team
when they need it. "It was a free kick, although I think it may have been
offside if it had gone in the net. "It's a case of trying to see the ball
and then reacting [after it takes the deflection]. You need a little bit of
luck too, but I believe that if you work hard you'll get the luck you need."
The Hammers' success came courtesy of three excellent goals, with a Carroll
brace sandwiching Gary O'Neil's first strike since March last year.
Jaaskelainen was thrilled to see the Hammers making the most of their
opportunities. He added: "They were three great finishes. You can see West
Brom are a good team, but we gave a very good performance. "The manager said
in the week that we need to be more ruthless in front of goal and we did
that on Saturday. "It's good when you go 2-0 up because it becomes easier to
control the game. Maybe we dropped a little too deep at the start of the
second half, but we created chances when we counter attacked and got the
third goal. "It was a great three points on Saturday and we can go on from
here now. We've got eight games to go and we want to finish as high as
possible."
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A message from the Vice-Chairman
WHUFc.com
Vice-Chairman Karren Brady updates supporters on West Ham United's move to
the Olympic Stadium
30.03.2013
A message from the Vice-Chairman
I have been overwhelmed by your positive response to last week's
announcement by Mayor Boris Johnson which awarded the Club the opportunity
to move to the Olympic Stadium. I would like to thank each and every one of
you who has taken the time to send the many thousands of messages of support
to the Club. I am pleased so many of you feel that your faith has been
rewarded. Knowing you are with us makes us a real force. There is a long
journey ahead, but together we stand a real chance of realising our
collective footballing ambitions for West Ham United. This move to a
world-class UEFA category 4 Stadium gives us the chance to compete with the
top teams in the world, attract and keep the highest quality players and
invest in the squad and training facilities.
We know that there are many of you who are frustrated and need to find out
more before you feel able to lend your support, but now we have reached an
agreement with the LLDC we can at last consult with you.
First of all we will be carrying out a poll which will help us to ascertain
your feelings towards the move. We hope through making more information and
educational resources available to you we will be able to address the
majority of your concerns.
In response to your feedback, we have followed a robust process and I am
pleased to confirm we have appointed an independent recognised organisation,
YouGov, to take this forward on our behalf. Cited as the most consistently
accurate pollster, YouGov will now provide their expertise to ensure we
conduct a fair and transparent consultation process. They have significant
experience in this area, having conducted more than 25 major sports-venue
projects in 15 countries across six continents, covering consultation over
national stadia, UEFA Champions League clubs and Premier League teams
including Wembley, the Maracana, Galatasaray, Inter Milan and QPR.
Their first job is to ensure that every single one of you who wishes to have
your say gets the opportunity to do so. They will now begin to undertake a
comprehensive assessment of the spectrum of opinion related to the stadium
relocation across our fan base, covering every core group that will drive
the club's attendances at the stadium.
I will be providing you with regular updates on our official club website
and via email so you are aware of the progress we are making, every step of
the way.
Each week I will aim to cover your questions and concerns as well as sharing
any additional imagery, designs and information we receive.
We have included a number of designs and drawings which have already been
seen by some fan groups and that demonstrate the more technical aspects of
the multi-million pound conversion in the matchday programme and here on
whufc.com. I am confident you will be as excited as we are when you see
them.
Again, I thank you wholeheartedly for your patience and support and I am
looking forward to continuing this historic journey with you.
Karren Brady
Vice-Chairman
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Andy at the double
WHUFC.com
Andy Carroll was all smiles after scoring twice in a 3-1 Barclays Premier
League victory over West Brom
30.03.2013
Andy Carroll could not contain his delight after scoring two outstanding
goals in West Ham United's 3-1 Barclays Premier League victory over West
Bromwich Albion on Saturday. The England centre forward was at his powerful
best against the Baggies, heading West Ham in front before the break before
netting the Hammers' third with an unstoppable first-time volley. Speaking
exclusively to West Ham TV, Carroll beamed as he celebrated scoring for the
third home game in succession. "It was a great win," he confirmed. "The lads
worked hard and I got my two goals and we got the three points, so it was a
great day. "I was putting myself about and got two goals, so that's what I
like to think I'm about. Obviously I like to score goals, so getting two
shows that I've got it. "I'm doing all right at home! I'm feeling good with
the lads and everyone is coming together and we're playing well at home, as
you can see. It's a great three points and massive for us. We've just got to
keep going now and hopefully get three points from the next game."
Asked about his two goals, Carroll was quick to praise the delivery provided
by Gary O'Neil and James Collins - the first headed in from a left-wing
corner and the second from a free-kick from halfway that the No8 expertly
diverted in with an exquisite right-foot volley. "The first one was just a
great ball in by Gaz O'Neil, who put it right where we have been practising.
I got a nice run on my marker and just put it into the back of the net. "The
second one was another one we practised putting into that position. It came
over my shoulder and I caught it well and put it into the bottom corner."
Carroll continued his fine run of form against West Brom's Sweden
international defender Jonas Olsson - the same man who was marking him when
he headed in England's opener in their 3-2 UEFA European Championship win
over the Swedes last year. "He was marking me then, too, but he's a tough
defender and it was another tough day out there. Like I said, the lads
played well and I thought we deserved the three points."
Carroll's goal capped a fine first-half display from Sam Allardyce's side,
who stroked the ball around quickly and accurately to repeatedly carve their
way through the Albion back four. However, the striker was also acutely
aware of the importance of Jussi Jaaskelainen's outstanding save to keep out
Romelu Lukaku's deflected free-kick just moments his own opening goal. "We
bopped it about and it showed with the two goals we got in the first half
that the lads were on it. Gaz's finish was a great finish and Jussi kept us
in it with the save he made from the free-kick that he pushed onto the post,
then got up and got the rebound. "All the lads played great and we deserved
it."
West Ham had to play out the final few minutes with ten men after George
McCartney was forced off with a knee injury. The shortage of manpower saw
Carroll deployed as an emergency centre-back in the closing stages - a role
he last fulfilled during his time under Big Sam at Newcastle United. "Back
at Newcastle when Big Sam was manager, he put us back as a centre-half once,
so it was nothing new to me."
Unfortunately, Carroll will be forced to watch when West Ham travel to
Liverpool next Sunday as he cannot play under the terms of his loan
agreement.
"It's a big game. Obviously I'm disappointed I can't play as it's another
two weeks off for me, but hopefully the lads will go up there and do what we
need to do."
While he has clearly impressed his club manager, Carroll is hoping his
impressive performances in claret and blue will help him to add to his nine
senior England caps in the near future. For sure, Roy Hodgson cannot help
but have been impressed by the No8's displays in recent weeks.
"I hope to play in every game for England but I've haven't been picked, so
I've just got to work hard here at West Ham and hopefully I'll be involved
next time."
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On this day - 31 March
WHUFC.com
A look back at a London derby victory over Tottenham Hotspur on this day 26
years ago
31.03.2013
Classic match
West Ham United 2-1 Tottenham Hotspur
Division One
31 March 1986
West Ham's Boys of '86 continued their chargs up to their eventual finishing
position of third in the top flight table with a memorable London derby
victory over Tottenham Hotspur on this day in 1986. John Lyall's side were
in the middle of their most successful league campaign and this victory over
Spurs avenged a 1-0 defeat suffered at White Hart Lane on Boxing Day. Much
of the Hammers' success was based on the goalscoring form of Frank McAvennie
and Tony Cottee and they were both on the scoresheet for this match.
McAvennie ended the season with 28 goals and Cottee was only two behind with
26 as the Hammers claimed third on 84 points, just five off champions
Liverpool.
Complete record - 31 March
2012 West Ham United 2-4 Reading (Championship)
2007 West Ham United 2-0 Middlesbrough (Premier League)
2001 West Ham United 0-1 Everton (Premier League)
1990 West Ham United 2-2 Port Vale (Division Two)
1986 West Ham United 2-1 Tottenham Hotspur (Division One)
1984 West Ham United 2-2 Queens Park Rangers (Division One)
1979 West Ham United 1-1 Leicester City (Division Two)
1973 West Ham United 2-0 Everton (Division One)
1972 West Ham United 2-2 Leeds United (Division One)
1970 West Ham United 3-0 Wolverhampton Wanderers (Division One)
1965 Aston Villa 2-3 West Ham United (Division One)
1964 Stoke City 3-0 West Ham United (Division One)
1962 West Bromwich Albion 0-1 West Ham United (Division One)
1961 West Ham United 1-0 Leicester City (Division One)
1956 Plymouth Argyle 0-1 West Ham United (Division Two)
1951 West Ham United 2-4 Manchester City (Division Two)
1934 West Ham United 5-1 Fulham (Division Two)
1928 West Ham United 4-3 Blackburn Rovers (Division One)
1923 Crystal Palace 5-1 West Ham United (Division Two)
Played 19, Won 11, Drawn 4, Lost 4, Scored 40, Conceded 28
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'It was a great day for us'
WHUFC.com
Sam Allardyce was delighted with Andy Carroll's contribution in the 3-1 win
over West Brom
30.03.2013
Hammers manager Sam Allardyce was delighted to see his side take all three
points against West Bromwich Albion on Saturday with striker Andy Carroll
twice making the scoresheet and Gary O'Neil notching his first at the Boleyn
Ground. West Brom clawed one goal back in reply through a late penalty from
Graham Dorrans, while Youssuf Mulumbu headed down the tunnel for an early
bath after being sent off deep into stoppage time. After sealing a
convincing 3-1 win for the Hammers, Allardyce hailed Carroll's performance
as his best in claret and blue. "When you look at the overall performance
and the quality of the goals, it was a great day for us," said Allardyce.
"We were glad to get out there after two weeks so they could show what they
can really do again. Last time we played here it was a fantastic game but we
ended up losing in the last minute. "This time we played a fantastic game
and scored three fantastic goals and got a thoroughly deserved win. "There
were three very different quality goals. The first showing Andy Carroll's
heading ability, Gary O'Neil with a delicate chip and of course the
outstanding volley from Andy shows it's not just about his aerial dominance,
it's about the overall ability that Andy has. "I don't think you'll see a
better volley technique than that one this season. Over the shoulder, right
foot volley - which is his weaker foot - right into the bottom corner. "Andy
put two goals on the end of a good performance. I think his good
performances have been with us before and the fans always appreciate his
ability here but he today he's shown them what he is all about. "He's shown
them his ability outside of the box and the ability he's got in the box,
along with his goalscoring ability. I hope this is kicking him on to being a
regular goal scorer for us in the next eight games or so and upping his
total as much as he can until the end of the season. "Andy is in a good
frame of mind now and finally after a long wait he has improved his match
fitness and that's why I think you're seeing the performances and goals that
you're seeing. "Finally he's there and he is enjoying himself and that is
more important than anything else. "It's a great result for us and a great
performance which of course takes us ever closer to that safety margin. Now
we're looking forward to playing Liverpool away next week."
But there was more heartache for defender George McCartney, who was
returning from a long-term absence only to suffer a recurrence of his knee
injury.
Allardyce added: "I think the only downside today was George McCartney's
injury, which was a big blow to George and to us. He's only just come back
and he's come off with the same thing he did last time which is his medial
ligaments in his knee, it's sad. "I would think that George will be out for
the rest of the season. It's a recurrence of the same injury which is a very
big disappointment for us all. "It was important that we were 3-0 up when he
had to come off because we had used all of our substitutions. What a blow it
would have been if it had been any different to that. "George has waited so
long to get back and he was so eager to get on. We thought, 'let's give him
a little run out now,' and save the legs of the lads who had done so well,
but sadly George went down with the same injury."
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West Ham 3 West Brom 1
30 March 2013
Last updated at 17:29
By Shamoon Hafez
BBC Sport
Andy Carroll scored twice to ease West Ham's fears of dropping into the
Championship with a win over West Brom. The striker's thumping header gave
the home side the lead, before Hammers goalkeeper Jussi Jaaskelainen was
forced into action with smart saves. Gary O'Neil's sweet strike doubled the
advantage with Carroll's superb volley giving the hosts a third goal.
Baggies' Graham Dorrans scored a late penalty and Youssouf Mulumbu was sent
off for kicking the ball at O'Neil. West Ham's comfortable victory means
they are now on 36 points, six clear of the bottom three, with eight games
of the season remaining. Having suffered five defeats in their previous
seven league matches, Sam Allardyce's men were in danger of being dragged
into a relegation battle.
Allardyce stated a total of 38 points would be enough to stay in the Premier
League and said that he would only sign a new contract with the club - which
runs out at the end of the season - once they are certain of survival.
Meanwhile, his counterpart Steve Clarke is enduring a slight blip as they
missed the chance to move ahead of Liverpool into seventh spot, having
enjoyed a fine season so far. The Baggies found it difficult to deal with
Carroll's aerial presence throughout, and were afforded no time on the ball
by West Ham's pressing game with Mohamed Diame particularly imposing.
"A victory for West Ham in a match where Sam Allardyce's men scored three
excellent goals. Andy Carroll's second was absolutely superb and West Brom
offered little throughout this game. Frustration told at the end with the
dismissal of Youssouf Mulumbu." The visitors started well, having a goal
rightly disallowed before Romelu Lukaku's deflected free-kick forced
Jaaskelainen into a magnificent save low to his right-hand side. Despite
West Brom's early pressure, the home side took control and went ahead
through on-loan frontman Carroll. The Englishman rose highest to power in
his fourth goal of the season when he produced a towering header from
O'Neil's corner after 16 minutes. Minutes later, both Diame and Matt Jarvis
had opportunities to double the Hammers' advantage, but neither player could
hit the target. However, the second did arrive soon after. A quick break
from the home side allowed Ricardo Vaz Te to find O'Neil on the edge of the
area, and the midfielder curled a strike over the helpless Ben Foster.
West Brom were looking for some inspiration to get back into the match in
the second half and nearly found it through Belgian striker Lukaku, who
fired a blistering drive narrowly over the bar, before full-back Billy Jones
was thwarted by the excellent Jaaskelainen. The home side wrapped the game
up through Carroll, who allowed James Collins' free-kick to drop over his
shoulder before despatching a volley into the bottom corner. Dorrans grabbed
a consolation for West Brom from the penalty spot with three minutes
remaining, after Lukaku was fouled in the box by Matt Taylor. And there was
still time for Mulumbu's bizarre dismissal, when the Congolese midfielder
picked the ball up after being fouled and kicked it against O'Neil in
frustration.
West Ham manager Sam Allardyce: "The points are more important than anything
else but the performance along with the result and the fact that we won
comfortably shows how good we have been at home all season. "Andy Carroll
scored the goal of the season for us, it was a fantastic goal, a world class
finish. He scored two today and it was his best performance. "It was an
important win for us, putting us back in 11th spot and it is about where we
have been all season. It shows the consistency for the season."
West Brom manager Steve Clarke: "We knew it would be a difficult game, and
in the first half they were a little bit better than us. The goals ewe
conceded are not like us. "We started the game quite well, but there are
small margins in this game. After being 1-0 down, we had a difficult
afternoon. "There are not been too many times this season that we have felt
like this. We have seven game and we want to finish on a high."
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Frank McAvennie - the Team Talk XI
BBC.co.uk
Former Celtic and West Ham striker Frank McAvennie picks his Sportsound Team
Talk XI, based on his playing experiences at club and international level.
Goalkeeper - Andy Goram
I played with Andy Goram at Scotland and I rated him right up there with
Peter Schmeichel and I thought he was different class. His reflexes were
brilliant and, to be fair, he had a nightmare when he first went to Rangers.
He was superb as a keeper and, rating him up there with Schmeichel, that's
good enough to be my number one. Pat Bonner and Phil Parks - down at West
Ham - were magnificent keepers but Goram gets the nod.
Right back - Ray Stewart
Ray was different class; he was a magnificent defender and he took the
penalties. He worked really well across the back four at West Ham and was
hard in the tackle. He could hit a ball 40 or 50 yards; he could spray
passes. I couldn't really understand him! He was from up Perth way and I was
the translator for him.
Central defence - Alan Hansen & Alvin Martin
I've gone for two completely different types. One, I thought was the best
player in Europe at one point and was gutted he didn't make the Mexico 86
World Cup. I don't know why Alan wasn't included as he was so good at
Liverpool. He was probably one of the hardest players I ever played against.
Not hard as in tackling but difficult. He was so good at reading the game
and was comfortable with the ball at his feet. Alvin was my captain down at
West Ham and he was a magnificent player. He'll go that extra mile for you.
He didn't like wearing shin guards but he had to; his socks were always down
and he never pulled out of a tackle.
Left back - Julian Dicks
A hard man but also what a player. He could spray passes with his left foot
and he didn't suffer fools gladly! He would play to the fans. Me and him
were always at the back at training because we didn't like it and once
jumped on the back of a milk float when the squad were all out on a six-mile
run.
Midfield - Left Davie Cooper
Coop was magnificent: an old-fashioned winger who would get the ball down
and go past people. He was very talented but very low-key with it. He was up
there with some of the greats.
Central midfield - Graeme Souness (captain)
He could really look after himself. Every one of the players I'm picking can
play, but they can also put a tackle in. They can all roll up their sleeves
when needed. Off the park he was a lovely guy. He asked me to sign for
Rangers, which was a bit off the cuff, but I'm a Glasgow boy and my family
would've been hurt. But apart from that, I'm a Celtic supporter, why would I
want to play for Rangers?
Central midfield - Paul McStay
The Maestro was a magnificent player. If he hadn't remained at Celtic then
he would've been one of the greats and the world would've known more of Paul
McStay. He led by example on the pitch and wasn't a shouter or a screamer.
But he could put his foot in and he was silky. McStay and Souness would
complement each other.
Right midfield - Alan Devonshire
Alan at West Ham was up there with the best. He could play on the left or
right and was different class. He was out for two years and when I played
with him I honestly thought he was probably the best player I'd played with.
Forward - Kenny Dalglish
There's no way I could have two strikers without having Kenny and he was
just magnificent, world class. He was THE man up front to lead the line.
Forward - Tony Cottee
As an out and out finisher, Kenny would've supplied him with so many chances
and Tony didn't miss. He was the best out and out finisher and scored 56
goals in one season.
Manager - John Lyall
It would be a toss up between John Lyall and Billy McNeill. Billy was my
idol but I would have to go for John because he was so far ahead of his
time: diamond formation and playing in the hole; playing three at the back.
He just went against the norm.
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West Ham hopeful of retaining Andy Carroll next season
BBC.co.uk
West Ham manager Sam Allardyce is hopeful of keeping on-loan striker Andy
Carroll at Upton Park next season. The 24-year-old striker scored twice in
West Ham's win over West Brom but is due to return to Liverpool in the
summer after his season-long loan. Asked about the chances of the former
Newcastle targetman staying, Allardyce said: "There is always a possibility.
"We will look at the end of the season and we will see what negotiations can
be done." Carroll joined Liverpool for a club record £35m fee in January
2011. He was signed to replace the departing Fernando Torres following the
Spaniard's £50m move to Chelsea but failed to establish himself at Anfield
and has since lost his place in the England squad. The 6ft 3in forward
featured in only two matches under new boss Brendan Rodgers this term before
joining the Hammers in August. His brace against the Baggies took his goal
tally to five for the London club and Allardyce said: "That was the best we
have seen of him here, because he has put two goals in, on top of a good
performance. "I hope this kicks him on to being a regular scorer for us in
the next eight games. "He is in a good frame of mind now and, finally after
a long wait, his fitness is good and that's why you are seeing these
performances and the goals are coming."
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Sam Allardyce wants Andy Carroll on permanant basis
KUMB.com
Filed: Saturday, 30th March 2013
By: Staff Writer
Sam Allardyce revealed tonight that he is keen to tie Andy Carroll to a
long-term contract - on a day that the on-loan striker hit a brace in West
Ham's 3-1 win over West Bromwich Albion. The on-loan striker scored a goal
in each half to help United move one step closer to Premier League safety as
West Brom were put to the sword at the Boleyn Ground this afternoon. Asked
in this evening's post-match press conference if there was a chance of
Carroll's loan deal being made permanant, Allardyce replied: "There's always
a possibility. "When we get down to budgeting and see what negotiations can
or can't be done, then you have a look at anything and everything that comes
your way."
And when pressed as to whether he would personally like Carroll to remain at
the Boleyn Ground beyond the end of his season-long loan, Allardyce replied:
"I think the answer to that would be yes - but there are a lot of things
that need to happen between now and then to make sure we can try and pursue
this transfer. "We will look at it at the end of the season when we're safe
and see what we need to do. "
As part of the deal that saw Carroll join West Ham from Liverpool last
August, the Hammers retain an option to make the 24-year-old England
international's deal permanent for a figure reported to be in the region of
£17million.
* We'll have Sam Allardyce's post-match press conference for you in full
shortly - plus that of West Brom manager Steve Clarke.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham United 3-1 West Bromwich Albion
KUMB.com
Filed: Saturday, 30th March 2013
By: Staff Writer
A brace from Andy Carroll has virtually assured West Ham of Premier League
safety. The big striker, who has been the recipient of much criticism in
recent weeks for failing to score sufficient goals stepped up to the plate
today to score a goal in either half that sent United on their way to a
seventh home league win of the season. The Irons were rewarded for a
promising opening when Carroll opened the scoring on the quarter-hour mark
with a fierce header from man-of-the-match Gary O'Neil's left-sided corner.
And the lead was doubled on 28 minutes when provider turned scorer as O'Neil
grabbed his first goal of the season. Ricardo Vaz Te's fifty-yard run
culminated in a short pass to O'Neil, who sent a looping volley over Foster
into the far corner of the net. Despite a promising start to the second
period, the Baggies continued to come up short in front of goal - and paid
the price for their profligacy when Carroll added a third for West Ham with
just ten minutes left on the clock.
James Collins, fouled in the centre circle picked himself up before
flighting a deep free kick towards the Albion penalty area. Carroll,
positioned between both central defenders watched the ball drop over his
shoulder before firing a volley - with his 'wrong' foot, his right - across
Foster into the far corner of the net.
There was however to be a late consolation for West Brom, who won a late
penalty when Matt Taylor was adjudged to have backed into Roman Lukaku.
Former Hammers transfer target Graham Dorrans stepped up to fire home his
first goal of the season. However they were to finish the game with only ten
men following an incredible show of petulance by Youssouf Mulumbu, who
responded to a tug on his shirt by Gary O'Neil by picking up the ball and
kicking it at O'Neil - a reaction that saw him instantly dismissed by Andre
Marriner.
West Ham had also been forced to play the remaining ten minutes a man short
after George McCartney, on as a late replacement for Guy Demel in his first
appearance of 2013 pulled up just three minutes after coming on. The win
lifts West Ham up to 11th place in the table, 13 points clear of bottom two
Reading and Queens Park Rangers and six points clear of 18th -placed Aston
Villa. We'll have the reaction of both managers for you shortly.
West Ham Utd 3-1 West Bromwich Albion: match facts
West Ham Utd: Jaaskelainen, Demel (McCartney 79), O'Brien, Reid, Collins,
O'Neil, Diame (Collison 82), Nolan (Taylor 69), Vaz Te, Jarvis, Carroll.
Subs not used: Henderson, Tomkins, Chamakh, C.Cole.
Goals: Carroll (16, 80), O'Neil (28).
Shots on/off target: 8/8.
Booked: Reid (78).
West Bromwich Albion: Foster, Jones, McAuley, Olsson, Ridgewell, Yacob
(Odemwingie 71), Brunt, Dorrans, Mulumbu, Long (Rosenberg 71), Lukaku.
Subs not used: Myhill, Popov, Tamas, Thomas, Fortune.
Goals: Dorrans (pen 88).
Shots on/off target: 12/8.
Booked: Long (67).
Referee: Andre Marriner.
Attendance: 34,966.
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George McCartney's season over
KUMB.com
Filed: Saturday, 30th March 2013
By: Staff Writer
West Ham left back George McCartney is almost certainly out for the rest of
the season after it was confirmed he had suffered medial ligament damage.
The Irish defender, who was making his first appearance since December 2012
lasted just three minutes on his comeback before sustaining exactly the same
injury as that which led to his recent enforced break. The bad news was
confirmed tonight by West Ham United manager Sam Allardyce. "It's a
re-occurrence of the same injury, which is a big disappointment for both him
and us," he told a press conference following this afternoon's 3-1 win over
West Bromwich Albion. "We're disappointed for George because he's waited so
long to come back. He was so eager to get on; we thought "let's give him a
little run-out now and save the lads' legs". But sadly, he goes down with
the same injury."
McCartney, who is in the second year of his second spell at the club was a
firm fixture in Allardyce's starting XI before sustaining the orginal injury
last December. The defender, who is 32 next month, has another year of his
current two-year contract, which ends in the summer of 2014, to run.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham defender George McCartney may miss rest of season with knee injury
Last Updated: March 30, 2013 7:09pm
SSN
West Ham may be without George McCartney for the season's run-in with the
defender suffering a knee injury in Saturday's 3-1 win over West Brom. It is
a massive blow for McCartney who came off the bench in the 78th minute to
make his first appearance since suffering medial ligament damage in his knee
four months ago. The full-back hobbled off in injury time after suffering
the same problem. "I would have thought he will miss the rest of the
season," Hammers boss Sam Allardyce said."It's a recurrence of the same
injury, his medial ligaments, which is a very big disappointment for him and
for us. We are disappointed for him because he has waited so long to get
back, and get on the pitch. "We thought we would give him a run out and give
the lads who had done so well a rest, but sadly he went down with the same
injury." At least the three points were some consolation as an Andy Carroll
double and Gary O'Neil's strike steered the London side up to 11th and six
points from the drop zone.
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Andy Carroll scores twice as West Ham beat West Brom 3-1
By Tim Oscroft. Last Updated: March 30, 2013 7:35pm
SSN
Two goals from Andy Carroll helped West Ham take a step towards Premier
League safety with a 3-1 win over West Brom. The on-loan striker opened the
scoring with a powerful header from a corner, with Gary O'Neil doubling the
lead inside 30 minutes. Carroll's deft finish put the Hammers clear and,
although Graeme Dorrans pulled one back, West Brom finished with 10 men when
Youssouf Mulumbu was sent off in stoppage-time.
Best of the match
Goal of the match: West Ham's first two goals caught the eye in different
ways, but the third will linger long in the memory. Andy Carroll capped an
excellent display by latching onto to a James Collins free kick with a
sublime first-time volley that gave Ben Foster no chance in the West Brom
goal.
Save of the match: Jussi Jaaskelainen, surely one of the most under-rated
keepers of recent times, flung out his right hand when wrong-footed by a
deflection on a Lukaku free kick to touch the ball onto the post. It
rebounded to safety, and within minutes West Ham were ahead and away,
putting the Finn's efforts into more context.
Man of the match: Gary O'Neil was excellent and thoroughly deserved his
goal, but Andy Carroll takes the plaudits for an all-round performance that
showed off all sides to his game - power in the air, an eye for goal at a
set-piece, good work on the ground and going for placement over power at a
crucial moment.
Talking point: Youssuf Mulumbu's dismissal did not affect the outcome, so
the talking point is Andy Carroll's performance. It feels like his season is
only just getting going after his injuries, and on this evidence he deserves
a chance with England in the summer, but it remains to be seen if he can
keep his run of form going until the end of the league campaign.
West Ham were playing on home turf for the first time since the confirmation
of their move away from the Boleyn Ground to the Olympic Stadium.
Maintaining their Premier League status between now and August 2016 is of
the utmost importance, and three of the five points Sam Allardyce had
targeted from their remaining nine games would go a long way to allaying any
nagging fears of a swift return to the Championship.
A lively start saw both sides exchange chances before Carroll did open the
scoring. Ricardo Vaz Te wasted an opening when he lashed a volley to the
right of the post, and West Brom saw a goal rightfully disallowed when
Gareth McAuley bundled the ball in at a corner, having collided with Jussi
Jaaskelainen in the process.
The home keeper then made a brilliant save that doubled in value shortly
afterwards. Romelu Lukaku's free-kick took a deflection that wrong-footed
the former Bolton veteran, but he flung out his right hand to touch the ball
onto the post and back into his hands.
When Carroll rose above the West Brom defence to head the ball past a
helpless Ben Foster, Jaaskelainen's save was put into context, and Mohamed
Diame went close to doubling the lead seconds later with a rasping shot that
tore past a static Foster to go just over the bar.
Matt Jarvis shot over from close range, but West Ham did add to their lead
on 28 minutes through a rapid counter-attack from a West Brom corner. Vaz Te
teased the West Brom defence before finding O'Neil, who looped the ball
across and beyond Foster with a sublime finish.
The hosts stayed in control until the break, but West Brom were a different
proposition afterwards. Lukaku looked more like his old forceful self, but
it was defender Billy Jones who went closest to scoring, driving into the
box and forcing Jaaskelainen to smother his poked shot just a few yards out.
The arrival of Peter Odemwingie, booed by some West Brom fans for his recent
Twitter outburst, upped the Baggies' tempo and the home fans were becoming
anxious when Carroll settled the match with a moment of outstanding skill.
James Collins' free-kick dropped over the striker's right shoulder, and as
he moved away from Jonas Olsson, Carroll volleyed the ball across and past
Foster for his fourth goal in four games.
West Brom pulled one back with two minutes to go from the penalty spot after
Lukaku had been caught by Matt Taylor and Winston Reid. Graham Dorrans fired
the ball past Jaaskelainen, but the game ended badly for West Brom when
Mulumbu lashed the ball in frustration at a West Ham player after conceding
a free-kick deep into stoppage-time.
Referee Andre Marriner showed the midfielder a straight red card, meaning he
will miss the next three games as West Brom's hopes of European football
next season receded further.
Speaking after the game, Allardyce was full of praise for Carroll and was
pleased the striker was able to demonstrate the full range of his ability.
Clarke upset with three goal defeat
Allardyce said: "He's not just strong in the air, as people perceive is his
only strength, it's the quality on the floor, the hold-up play and then the
technique on the volley, as we saw, was outstanding. It was a world-class
finish, nobody can take that away from him, it was outstanding." But
Allardyce's counterpart Steve Clarke was left to lament a performance which
he felt was unlike his West Brom team. Clarke said: "In the first half, West
Ham were better than us at the ugly side, winning the second balls and
keeping the pressure on us. "They did that well, and we didn't do it well
enough. The goals we conceded are not like us, they were three disappointing
goals to lose."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham boss Sam Allardyce praises Andy Carroll after 3-1 win over West
Brom
By Tim Oscroft. Last Updated: March 30, 2013 6:49pm
SSN
West Ham manager Sam Allardyce hailed striker Andy Carroll's "world class"
contribution to Saturday's 3-1 win over West Brom. The England
international, on loan from Liverpool, scored twice in a win that helped
allay lingering fears of a relegation battle for the Hammers. Having headed
the home side in front from a first-half corner, Carroll's second was a
sublime first-time volley having allowed the ball to drop over his shoulder
from a free-kick with 10 minutes remaining.
In Allardyce's opinion, the goals were just reward for an all-round
performance of the highest quality from the 24-year-old. "His performances
have equalled that, but he has not put the ball in the back of the net as
regularly as we would have liked," Allardyce asserted. "Getting a brace
today is fantastic for him, and today showed what he is all about. "He's not
just strong in the air, as people perceive is his only strength, it's the
quality on the floor, the hold-up play and then the technique on the volley,
as we saw, was outstanding. "It was a world-class finish, nobody can take
that away from him, it was outstanding."
Allardyce had talked before the match of a need for five points from the
remaining nine games to secure a place in the Premier League, a matter that
is of even more importance with a move to the Olympic Stadium pencilled in
for 2016. "With Wigan winning and closing the gap it was a very important
win for us today, it puts us back in 11th spot so we're moving back up the
table. We've been hovering around there all season, so it shows the
consistency," he added.
"There's a new future ahead for West Ham, and it's a focus to build for that
future. I only focus on the next game, get the club in a position to re-plan
and organise for next season. We're not quite there yet, but we're looking
very comfortable." Allardyce also confirmed that substitute George McCartney
had hobbled off late on with a recurrence of a knee injury that had kept him
out of action for four months.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham 3 West Brom 1
The Sun
By ANDREW DILLON
Last Updated: 31st March 2013
WEST HAM celebrated getting the keys to the Olympic Stadium by staging their
own version of Super Saturday. And boss Sam Allardyce wants Andy Carroll to
come with them when they move up the road to Stratford in three years' time.
Two goals from the on-loan Liverpool striker finally showed fans what he is
capable of. Big Sam's work establishing Hammers as a top-flight team
following promotion last season is almost done. But the tough task of
persuading Carroll that his future belongs in the East End and shoehorning
£17million out of the Upton Park board will go right to the summer.
WEST HAM boss praises his star striker after he scored twice in a 3-1
victory over West Brom at Upton Park It was perhaps fitting that the team
put on a show in the week after a huge 'For Sale' sign was hung on Upton
Park in preparation for uprooting. Carroll was the star attraction. Not
exactly Usain Bolt but a gold medal performance with two goals — the second
an exquisite volley to sandwich a beauty from Gary O'Neil.
WEST BROM boss believes home team were the better side and his team's
defence let them down "The last time we played at Upton Park we lost in the
last minute and we have had some good performances which have not been
rewarded with goals. "This time we saw three different types of goal, with
Andy showing his heading ability. "I hope this will kick Andy on and he can
become a regular goalscorer for the next eight games or so. His match
fitness is finally here and he is enjoying himself, that is the main thing.
"We will look at things at the end of the season. I have to say I would like
him to stay but it is also about budgeting." Hammers joint-chairman David
Sullivan admits his team needs major reconstruction to reflect its planned
move to a 54,000-seater des res in 2016.
Yesterday, their much-loved if outdated home in E13 was rocking as Carroll
not only doubled his tally for the season but also took a typical battering
in working for the team. After a few early wobbles when Jussi Jaaskelainen
fumbled Graeme Dorrans' sixth-minute shot then redeemed himself with a
superb save from Romelu Lukaku's free-kick, it was Carroll time. On 16
minutes, Carroll climbed above Baggies defender Jonas Olsson and powered
home a bullet header from an O'Neil corner. West Brom were wobbling and
caught again when Ricardo Vaz Te dashed straight down their defence's
throat, held up play, drew two defenders then squared the ball for O'Neil to
cleverly chip keeper Ben Foster.
Despite a few flurries from West Brom, it was West Ham all the way. And they
sealed victory 11 minutes from time when Carroll latched on to James
Collins' free-kick and fired a stunning right-foot volley into the net.
Dorrans netted a consolation penalty three minutes from time when Lukaku was
sandwiched in the box between Winston Reid and Matt Taylor. And both teams
ended with 10 men — West Ham when sub George McCartney had to go off with a
recurrence of his knee injury and West Brom thanks to Yousouf Mulumbu's daft
last-minute red card. Unlucky McCartney is out for the season while Mulumbu
will be banned for three games after he reacted angrily to a tug by O'Neil,
picked the ball and booted it at the Hammers man. Frustrated boss Steve
Clarke said: "We have no complaints about the result. But you have got to
learn to control your emotions. "That sending off doesn't affect today's
game but it affects the next three."
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West Ham 3-1 West Brom: Carroll brace lifts Irons away from drop zone
The Mirror
30 Mar 2013 17:40
Andy Carroll made a convincing case for his future to be part of the
long-term strategy unveiled by West Ham last week – and that is fine by Sam
Allardyce.
The club have sealed their projected move to the Olympic Stadium and a new
contract for manager Allardyce has reached the stage when only the finer
points need to be agreed. And how Allardyce would love to be able to call on
Carroll as he attempts to build on the Premier League status that is now all
but secured after a comprehensive win over a West Brom side drifting towards
a mid-table finish with pride rather than points as their only incentive.
West Ham established a first-half superiority that was never truly
challenged and at the hub of all that was Carroll. He now looks fit, sharp
and mobile – and almost unplayable in the air. The Baggies' central defence
of Jonas Olsson and Gareth McAuley never looked at ease.
Carroll is on loan from Liverpool for the season and West Ham have a
decision to make come May. An offer of about £15million is thought to be
acceptable at Anfield as the club look to cut their losses on the man who
cost more than £30m from Newcastle. That will mean the West Ham hierarchy
have to dig deep into their resources but on yesterday's evidence, it would
be a risk worth taking. Allardyce said: "Would I like him here next season?
The answer is yes. But there are a lot of things that need to do be done. We
will have to look at the end of the season when we get down to budgets. "But
Andy showed today what a threat he is."
The one disappointment for Allardyce was that defender George McCartney is
set to miss the rest of the season with a recurrence of a medial knee
ligament injury. Albion were out of it by the time Andre Marriner blew for
half-time and they could have no complaints about the outcome. Yet they
could have scored first when a free-kick from the subdued Romelu Lukakau
took a deflection off Gary O'Neil and Jussi Jaaskelainen need to change
direction to knock the ball on to a post before smothering the rebound. It
was a false dawn. After that, it became the Carroll show. In the 16th minute
he headed home a corner from O'Neil, who went on to double the advantage
with an exquisite finish 12 minutes later. Albion revived a little in the
second half but were unable to penetrate a rearguard superbly marshalled by
James Collins and Winston Reid. And in the 80th minute, the game was made
safe when Carroll volleyed in a free-kick from Collins on the turn and the
points were assured.
Albion did pull a goal back in the 88th minute from a Graham Dorrans penalty
after Lukaku was fouled by Matt Taylor but the game was gone. Indeed, there
was time for humour as the West Ham fans greeted the arrival of Albion
substitute Peter Odemwingie with the chorus: " He went to QPR and was left
there in his car", to remind the striker of his abortive attempt to move
during the transfer window. There was a flash of indiscipline from Youssouf
Mulumbu who was sent off for volleying the ball at O'Neil after a niggling
rather than violent foul. "It was frustration," said Albion manager Steve
Clarke. "But we only have a small squad and now we will be losing a player
for three matches. "Andy Carroll had a really good day and took his goals
well. But we have not had many days like this and we will dust ourselves off
and be ready for Arsenal next week."
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Summer of Sam: Tottenham and West Ham set to battle for £10m Lyon defender
Umtiti
The Mirror
30 Mar 2013 22:28
Jamie McDonald
Tottenham and West Ham are ready to move for France Under-20 international
Samuel Umtiti. The Cameroon-born defender is currently at Olympique Lyon
and is valued at around £10m. He came to Spurs' notice when he scored a
stunning goal for his club in the Europa League at White Hart Lane.
Lyon were eventually eliminated – but the 19-year-old impressed Spurs
manager Andre Villas-Boas. West Ham are also keen and the two London clubs
are set to do battle for his signature this summer. AC Milan are interested
but Umtiti may feel that he has more chance of regular first-team football
here.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
West Ham United defeated West Bromwich Albion 3-1 at the Boleyn Ground on
Saturday
30.03.2013
Andy Carroll notched a brace as West Ham United moved back towards the top
half of the Barclays Premier League with a 3-1 victory over West Bromwich
Albion at the Boleyn Ground on Saturday. Carroll's double showcased the
range of his abilities - the first a towering header, the second a stunning
volley - as West Ham found the ruthless touch manager Sam Allardyce called
for pre-match. The big Geordie's goals sandwiched a fine strike from Gary
O'Neil, meaning Graham Dorrans' late penalty for West Brom counted for
little. Youssouf Mulumbu was dismissed late on after taking the bizarre
decision to pick up the ball and smash it at Gary O'Neil, as the Baggies
left east London well beaten. The Hammers had an early scare when Gareth
McAuley forced Chris Brunt's seventh minute corner over the line, but the
visitors' centre back had clearly pushed Jussi Jaaskelainen in his efforts
to reach the ball and referee Andre Marriner chalked his effort off.
Jaaskelainen then had to make a fine save, readjusting his balance in the
blink of an eye to react to a deflection of Romelu Lukaku's free kick from
its original path and touch the ball onto the post. West Ham were also
looking lively in an open start and it was Allardyce's men who were
celebrating the opening goal with 16 minutes on the clock. Carroll was the
goalscorer, leaping imperiously above Jonas Olsson to meet Gary O'Neil's
inswinging left-wing corner with a thumping header beyond Ben Foster. The
Hammers went close to doubling their advantage twice within the next five
minutes, Mohamed Diame sending in a 20-yard drive that whistled inches over
the top, then Matt Jarvis volleyed too high from close in after Carroll
flicked James Collins' deep free kick on. The home crowd did not have to
wait long for a second West Ham goal though, with O'Neil notching his first
in more than a year 17 minutes before the interval. It was worth the wait
too, as the midfielder swept a 20-yard shot above Ben Foster and into the
left hand corner of the net after his team broke swiftly from a Baggies free
kick for Ricardo Vaz Te to lay across for O'Neil.
Jaaskelainen had to deal with a low drive from Dorrans before the break, but
the Hammers were looking in the mood and were well worthy of their half time
advantage. West Brom were an improved force in the second half, with West
Ham finding it harder to attack their visitors with such fluency. Three
minutes after the restart Lukaku ran across the face of the Hammers'
backline before unleashing a strong shot from the edge of the box which only
just cleared the crossbar. Right back Billy Jones had to be denied by
Jaaskelainen after making a piercing run towards goal, then James Collins
flew out to meet Peter Odemwingie and make a super block after the Albion
sub made his way past Joey O'Brien. But West Ham took stock and killed the
game off ten minutes from time and again it was a goal of real quality.
Carroll showed impeccable technique to watch Collins' lofted free kick drop
over his shoulder and then guide a wonderfully controlled volley past
Foster's dive. West Brom pulled one back two minutes from the end when they
were awarded a spot kick for a nudge on Lukaku by Matt Taylor and Dorrans
blasted the penalty home, The Baggies' spirits were not to be lifted though,
and their miserable afternoon was compounded in the dying seconds when
Mulumbu saw red in extraordinary circumstances, picking the ball up as it
was in play and blasting it at O'Neil from close range. Referee Marriner had
no hesitation in brandishing a red card and the Hammers saw out the
remaining time to register their tenth league win of the campaign.
West Ham United: Jaaskelainen; Demel (McCartney 79), Collins, Reid, O'Brien;
Nolan (Taylor 69), O'Neil, Diame (Collison 82); Vaz Te, Carroll, Jarvis
Subs: Henderson (GK), Tomkins, C.Cole, Chamakh
Goals: Carroll 16, O'Neil 28, Carroll 80
Booked: Reid
West Bromwich Albion: Foster; Jones, McAuley, Olsson, Ridgewell; Mulumbu,
Yacob (Odemwingie 71), Brunt; Dorrans (Fortune 88), Lukaku, Long (Rosenberg
71)
Subs: Myhill (GK), Popov, Thomas, Tamas
Goal: Dorrans pen 88
Booked: Long
Sent off: Mulumbu
Referee: Andre Marriner
Attendance: 34,966
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Jussi savours Baggies win
WHUFC.com
February's SBOBET Player of the Month revels in the Hammers' 3-1 win over
West Bromwich Albion
31.03.2013
West Ham United may have been in a position of relative comfort as they
completed a 3-1 victory over West Bromwich Albion on Saturday, but if it had
not been for an early intervention from goalkeeper Jussi Jaaskelainen, the
outcome could have been very different. The Finnish goalkeeper made an
outstanding stop on 14 minutes with the scoresheet still blank, shifting his
weight back in the opposite direction to which he had started moving after
Romelu Lukaku's free kick took a deflection off Gary O'Neil. Jaaskelainen
managed to get down to his right and push the ball onto the post, with West
Ham making full use of his save by opening the scoring through Andy Carroll
just two minutes later. After picking up the SBOBET Player of the Month
award for February pre-match, Jaaskelainen was delighted to round off a fine
day by claiming maximum points. Speaking about his early save, he told West
Ham TV: "At the end of the day that's my job as goalkeeper, to help the team
when they need it. "It was a free kick, although I think it may have been
offside if it had gone in the net. "It's a case of trying to see the ball
and then reacting [after it takes the deflection]. You need a little bit of
luck too, but I believe that if you work hard you'll get the luck you need."
The Hammers' success came courtesy of three excellent goals, with a Carroll
brace sandwiching Gary O'Neil's first strike since March last year.
Jaaskelainen was thrilled to see the Hammers making the most of their
opportunities. He added: "They were three great finishes. You can see West
Brom are a good team, but we gave a very good performance. "The manager said
in the week that we need to be more ruthless in front of goal and we did
that on Saturday. "It's good when you go 2-0 up because it becomes easier to
control the game. Maybe we dropped a little too deep at the start of the
second half, but we created chances when we counter attacked and got the
third goal. "It was a great three points on Saturday and we can go on from
here now. We've got eight games to go and we want to finish as high as
possible."
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A message from the Vice-Chairman
WHUFc.com
Vice-Chairman Karren Brady updates supporters on West Ham United's move to
the Olympic Stadium
30.03.2013
A message from the Vice-Chairman
I have been overwhelmed by your positive response to last week's
announcement by Mayor Boris Johnson which awarded the Club the opportunity
to move to the Olympic Stadium. I would like to thank each and every one of
you who has taken the time to send the many thousands of messages of support
to the Club. I am pleased so many of you feel that your faith has been
rewarded. Knowing you are with us makes us a real force. There is a long
journey ahead, but together we stand a real chance of realising our
collective footballing ambitions for West Ham United. This move to a
world-class UEFA category 4 Stadium gives us the chance to compete with the
top teams in the world, attract and keep the highest quality players and
invest in the squad and training facilities.
We know that there are many of you who are frustrated and need to find out
more before you feel able to lend your support, but now we have reached an
agreement with the LLDC we can at last consult with you.
First of all we will be carrying out a poll which will help us to ascertain
your feelings towards the move. We hope through making more information and
educational resources available to you we will be able to address the
majority of your concerns.
In response to your feedback, we have followed a robust process and I am
pleased to confirm we have appointed an independent recognised organisation,
YouGov, to take this forward on our behalf. Cited as the most consistently
accurate pollster, YouGov will now provide their expertise to ensure we
conduct a fair and transparent consultation process. They have significant
experience in this area, having conducted more than 25 major sports-venue
projects in 15 countries across six continents, covering consultation over
national stadia, UEFA Champions League clubs and Premier League teams
including Wembley, the Maracana, Galatasaray, Inter Milan and QPR.
Their first job is to ensure that every single one of you who wishes to have
your say gets the opportunity to do so. They will now begin to undertake a
comprehensive assessment of the spectrum of opinion related to the stadium
relocation across our fan base, covering every core group that will drive
the club's attendances at the stadium.
I will be providing you with regular updates on our official club website
and via email so you are aware of the progress we are making, every step of
the way.
Each week I will aim to cover your questions and concerns as well as sharing
any additional imagery, designs and information we receive.
We have included a number of designs and drawings which have already been
seen by some fan groups and that demonstrate the more technical aspects of
the multi-million pound conversion in the matchday programme and here on
whufc.com. I am confident you will be as excited as we are when you see
them.
Again, I thank you wholeheartedly for your patience and support and I am
looking forward to continuing this historic journey with you.
Karren Brady
Vice-Chairman
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Andy at the double
WHUFC.com
Andy Carroll was all smiles after scoring twice in a 3-1 Barclays Premier
League victory over West Brom
30.03.2013
Andy Carroll could not contain his delight after scoring two outstanding
goals in West Ham United's 3-1 Barclays Premier League victory over West
Bromwich Albion on Saturday. The England centre forward was at his powerful
best against the Baggies, heading West Ham in front before the break before
netting the Hammers' third with an unstoppable first-time volley. Speaking
exclusively to West Ham TV, Carroll beamed as he celebrated scoring for the
third home game in succession. "It was a great win," he confirmed. "The lads
worked hard and I got my two goals and we got the three points, so it was a
great day. "I was putting myself about and got two goals, so that's what I
like to think I'm about. Obviously I like to score goals, so getting two
shows that I've got it. "I'm doing all right at home! I'm feeling good with
the lads and everyone is coming together and we're playing well at home, as
you can see. It's a great three points and massive for us. We've just got to
keep going now and hopefully get three points from the next game."
Asked about his two goals, Carroll was quick to praise the delivery provided
by Gary O'Neil and James Collins - the first headed in from a left-wing
corner and the second from a free-kick from halfway that the No8 expertly
diverted in with an exquisite right-foot volley. "The first one was just a
great ball in by Gaz O'Neil, who put it right where we have been practising.
I got a nice run on my marker and just put it into the back of the net. "The
second one was another one we practised putting into that position. It came
over my shoulder and I caught it well and put it into the bottom corner."
Carroll continued his fine run of form against West Brom's Sweden
international defender Jonas Olsson - the same man who was marking him when
he headed in England's opener in their 3-2 UEFA European Championship win
over the Swedes last year. "He was marking me then, too, but he's a tough
defender and it was another tough day out there. Like I said, the lads
played well and I thought we deserved the three points."
Carroll's goal capped a fine first-half display from Sam Allardyce's side,
who stroked the ball around quickly and accurately to repeatedly carve their
way through the Albion back four. However, the striker was also acutely
aware of the importance of Jussi Jaaskelainen's outstanding save to keep out
Romelu Lukaku's deflected free-kick just moments his own opening goal. "We
bopped it about and it showed with the two goals we got in the first half
that the lads were on it. Gaz's finish was a great finish and Jussi kept us
in it with the save he made from the free-kick that he pushed onto the post,
then got up and got the rebound. "All the lads played great and we deserved
it."
West Ham had to play out the final few minutes with ten men after George
McCartney was forced off with a knee injury. The shortage of manpower saw
Carroll deployed as an emergency centre-back in the closing stages - a role
he last fulfilled during his time under Big Sam at Newcastle United. "Back
at Newcastle when Big Sam was manager, he put us back as a centre-half once,
so it was nothing new to me."
Unfortunately, Carroll will be forced to watch when West Ham travel to
Liverpool next Sunday as he cannot play under the terms of his loan
agreement.
"It's a big game. Obviously I'm disappointed I can't play as it's another
two weeks off for me, but hopefully the lads will go up there and do what we
need to do."
While he has clearly impressed his club manager, Carroll is hoping his
impressive performances in claret and blue will help him to add to his nine
senior England caps in the near future. For sure, Roy Hodgson cannot help
but have been impressed by the No8's displays in recent weeks.
"I hope to play in every game for England but I've haven't been picked, so
I've just got to work hard here at West Ham and hopefully I'll be involved
next time."
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On this day - 31 March
WHUFC.com
A look back at a London derby victory over Tottenham Hotspur on this day 26
years ago
31.03.2013
Classic match
West Ham United 2-1 Tottenham Hotspur
Division One
31 March 1986
West Ham's Boys of '86 continued their chargs up to their eventual finishing
position of third in the top flight table with a memorable London derby
victory over Tottenham Hotspur on this day in 1986. John Lyall's side were
in the middle of their most successful league campaign and this victory over
Spurs avenged a 1-0 defeat suffered at White Hart Lane on Boxing Day. Much
of the Hammers' success was based on the goalscoring form of Frank McAvennie
and Tony Cottee and they were both on the scoresheet for this match.
McAvennie ended the season with 28 goals and Cottee was only two behind with
26 as the Hammers claimed third on 84 points, just five off champions
Liverpool.
Complete record - 31 March
2012 West Ham United 2-4 Reading (Championship)
2007 West Ham United 2-0 Middlesbrough (Premier League)
2001 West Ham United 0-1 Everton (Premier League)
1990 West Ham United 2-2 Port Vale (Division Two)
1986 West Ham United 2-1 Tottenham Hotspur (Division One)
1984 West Ham United 2-2 Queens Park Rangers (Division One)
1979 West Ham United 1-1 Leicester City (Division Two)
1973 West Ham United 2-0 Everton (Division One)
1972 West Ham United 2-2 Leeds United (Division One)
1970 West Ham United 3-0 Wolverhampton Wanderers (Division One)
1965 Aston Villa 2-3 West Ham United (Division One)
1964 Stoke City 3-0 West Ham United (Division One)
1962 West Bromwich Albion 0-1 West Ham United (Division One)
1961 West Ham United 1-0 Leicester City (Division One)
1956 Plymouth Argyle 0-1 West Ham United (Division Two)
1951 West Ham United 2-4 Manchester City (Division Two)
1934 West Ham United 5-1 Fulham (Division Two)
1928 West Ham United 4-3 Blackburn Rovers (Division One)
1923 Crystal Palace 5-1 West Ham United (Division Two)
Played 19, Won 11, Drawn 4, Lost 4, Scored 40, Conceded 28
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'It was a great day for us'
WHUFC.com
Sam Allardyce was delighted with Andy Carroll's contribution in the 3-1 win
over West Brom
30.03.2013
Hammers manager Sam Allardyce was delighted to see his side take all three
points against West Bromwich Albion on Saturday with striker Andy Carroll
twice making the scoresheet and Gary O'Neil notching his first at the Boleyn
Ground. West Brom clawed one goal back in reply through a late penalty from
Graham Dorrans, while Youssuf Mulumbu headed down the tunnel for an early
bath after being sent off deep into stoppage time. After sealing a
convincing 3-1 win for the Hammers, Allardyce hailed Carroll's performance
as his best in claret and blue. "When you look at the overall performance
and the quality of the goals, it was a great day for us," said Allardyce.
"We were glad to get out there after two weeks so they could show what they
can really do again. Last time we played here it was a fantastic game but we
ended up losing in the last minute. "This time we played a fantastic game
and scored three fantastic goals and got a thoroughly deserved win. "There
were three very different quality goals. The first showing Andy Carroll's
heading ability, Gary O'Neil with a delicate chip and of course the
outstanding volley from Andy shows it's not just about his aerial dominance,
it's about the overall ability that Andy has. "I don't think you'll see a
better volley technique than that one this season. Over the shoulder, right
foot volley - which is his weaker foot - right into the bottom corner. "Andy
put two goals on the end of a good performance. I think his good
performances have been with us before and the fans always appreciate his
ability here but he today he's shown them what he is all about. "He's shown
them his ability outside of the box and the ability he's got in the box,
along with his goalscoring ability. I hope this is kicking him on to being a
regular goal scorer for us in the next eight games or so and upping his
total as much as he can until the end of the season. "Andy is in a good
frame of mind now and finally after a long wait he has improved his match
fitness and that's why I think you're seeing the performances and goals that
you're seeing. "Finally he's there and he is enjoying himself and that is
more important than anything else. "It's a great result for us and a great
performance which of course takes us ever closer to that safety margin. Now
we're looking forward to playing Liverpool away next week."
But there was more heartache for defender George McCartney, who was
returning from a long-term absence only to suffer a recurrence of his knee
injury.
Allardyce added: "I think the only downside today was George McCartney's
injury, which was a big blow to George and to us. He's only just come back
and he's come off with the same thing he did last time which is his medial
ligaments in his knee, it's sad. "I would think that George will be out for
the rest of the season. It's a recurrence of the same injury which is a very
big disappointment for us all. "It was important that we were 3-0 up when he
had to come off because we had used all of our substitutions. What a blow it
would have been if it had been any different to that. "George has waited so
long to get back and he was so eager to get on. We thought, 'let's give him
a little run out now,' and save the legs of the lads who had done so well,
but sadly George went down with the same injury."
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West Ham 3 West Brom 1
30 March 2013
Last updated at 17:29
By Shamoon Hafez
BBC Sport
Andy Carroll scored twice to ease West Ham's fears of dropping into the
Championship with a win over West Brom. The striker's thumping header gave
the home side the lead, before Hammers goalkeeper Jussi Jaaskelainen was
forced into action with smart saves. Gary O'Neil's sweet strike doubled the
advantage with Carroll's superb volley giving the hosts a third goal.
Baggies' Graham Dorrans scored a late penalty and Youssouf Mulumbu was sent
off for kicking the ball at O'Neil. West Ham's comfortable victory means
they are now on 36 points, six clear of the bottom three, with eight games
of the season remaining. Having suffered five defeats in their previous
seven league matches, Sam Allardyce's men were in danger of being dragged
into a relegation battle.
Allardyce stated a total of 38 points would be enough to stay in the Premier
League and said that he would only sign a new contract with the club - which
runs out at the end of the season - once they are certain of survival.
Meanwhile, his counterpart Steve Clarke is enduring a slight blip as they
missed the chance to move ahead of Liverpool into seventh spot, having
enjoyed a fine season so far. The Baggies found it difficult to deal with
Carroll's aerial presence throughout, and were afforded no time on the ball
by West Ham's pressing game with Mohamed Diame particularly imposing.
"A victory for West Ham in a match where Sam Allardyce's men scored three
excellent goals. Andy Carroll's second was absolutely superb and West Brom
offered little throughout this game. Frustration told at the end with the
dismissal of Youssouf Mulumbu." The visitors started well, having a goal
rightly disallowed before Romelu Lukaku's deflected free-kick forced
Jaaskelainen into a magnificent save low to his right-hand side. Despite
West Brom's early pressure, the home side took control and went ahead
through on-loan frontman Carroll. The Englishman rose highest to power in
his fourth goal of the season when he produced a towering header from
O'Neil's corner after 16 minutes. Minutes later, both Diame and Matt Jarvis
had opportunities to double the Hammers' advantage, but neither player could
hit the target. However, the second did arrive soon after. A quick break
from the home side allowed Ricardo Vaz Te to find O'Neil on the edge of the
area, and the midfielder curled a strike over the helpless Ben Foster.
West Brom were looking for some inspiration to get back into the match in
the second half and nearly found it through Belgian striker Lukaku, who
fired a blistering drive narrowly over the bar, before full-back Billy Jones
was thwarted by the excellent Jaaskelainen. The home side wrapped the game
up through Carroll, who allowed James Collins' free-kick to drop over his
shoulder before despatching a volley into the bottom corner. Dorrans grabbed
a consolation for West Brom from the penalty spot with three minutes
remaining, after Lukaku was fouled in the box by Matt Taylor. And there was
still time for Mulumbu's bizarre dismissal, when the Congolese midfielder
picked the ball up after being fouled and kicked it against O'Neil in
frustration.
West Ham manager Sam Allardyce: "The points are more important than anything
else but the performance along with the result and the fact that we won
comfortably shows how good we have been at home all season. "Andy Carroll
scored the goal of the season for us, it was a fantastic goal, a world class
finish. He scored two today and it was his best performance. "It was an
important win for us, putting us back in 11th spot and it is about where we
have been all season. It shows the consistency for the season."
West Brom manager Steve Clarke: "We knew it would be a difficult game, and
in the first half they were a little bit better than us. The goals ewe
conceded are not like us. "We started the game quite well, but there are
small margins in this game. After being 1-0 down, we had a difficult
afternoon. "There are not been too many times this season that we have felt
like this. We have seven game and we want to finish on a high."
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Frank McAvennie - the Team Talk XI
BBC.co.uk
Former Celtic and West Ham striker Frank McAvennie picks his Sportsound Team
Talk XI, based on his playing experiences at club and international level.
Goalkeeper - Andy Goram
I played with Andy Goram at Scotland and I rated him right up there with
Peter Schmeichel and I thought he was different class. His reflexes were
brilliant and, to be fair, he had a nightmare when he first went to Rangers.
He was superb as a keeper and, rating him up there with Schmeichel, that's
good enough to be my number one. Pat Bonner and Phil Parks - down at West
Ham - were magnificent keepers but Goram gets the nod.
Right back - Ray Stewart
Ray was different class; he was a magnificent defender and he took the
penalties. He worked really well across the back four at West Ham and was
hard in the tackle. He could hit a ball 40 or 50 yards; he could spray
passes. I couldn't really understand him! He was from up Perth way and I was
the translator for him.
Central defence - Alan Hansen & Alvin Martin
I've gone for two completely different types. One, I thought was the best
player in Europe at one point and was gutted he didn't make the Mexico 86
World Cup. I don't know why Alan wasn't included as he was so good at
Liverpool. He was probably one of the hardest players I ever played against.
Not hard as in tackling but difficult. He was so good at reading the game
and was comfortable with the ball at his feet. Alvin was my captain down at
West Ham and he was a magnificent player. He'll go that extra mile for you.
He didn't like wearing shin guards but he had to; his socks were always down
and he never pulled out of a tackle.
Left back - Julian Dicks
A hard man but also what a player. He could spray passes with his left foot
and he didn't suffer fools gladly! He would play to the fans. Me and him
were always at the back at training because we didn't like it and once
jumped on the back of a milk float when the squad were all out on a six-mile
run.
Midfield - Left Davie Cooper
Coop was magnificent: an old-fashioned winger who would get the ball down
and go past people. He was very talented but very low-key with it. He was up
there with some of the greats.
Central midfield - Graeme Souness (captain)
He could really look after himself. Every one of the players I'm picking can
play, but they can also put a tackle in. They can all roll up their sleeves
when needed. Off the park he was a lovely guy. He asked me to sign for
Rangers, which was a bit off the cuff, but I'm a Glasgow boy and my family
would've been hurt. But apart from that, I'm a Celtic supporter, why would I
want to play for Rangers?
Central midfield - Paul McStay
The Maestro was a magnificent player. If he hadn't remained at Celtic then
he would've been one of the greats and the world would've known more of Paul
McStay. He led by example on the pitch and wasn't a shouter or a screamer.
But he could put his foot in and he was silky. McStay and Souness would
complement each other.
Right midfield - Alan Devonshire
Alan at West Ham was up there with the best. He could play on the left or
right and was different class. He was out for two years and when I played
with him I honestly thought he was probably the best player I'd played with.
Forward - Kenny Dalglish
There's no way I could have two strikers without having Kenny and he was
just magnificent, world class. He was THE man up front to lead the line.
Forward - Tony Cottee
As an out and out finisher, Kenny would've supplied him with so many chances
and Tony didn't miss. He was the best out and out finisher and scored 56
goals in one season.
Manager - John Lyall
It would be a toss up between John Lyall and Billy McNeill. Billy was my
idol but I would have to go for John because he was so far ahead of his
time: diamond formation and playing in the hole; playing three at the back.
He just went against the norm.
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West Ham hopeful of retaining Andy Carroll next season
BBC.co.uk
West Ham manager Sam Allardyce is hopeful of keeping on-loan striker Andy
Carroll at Upton Park next season. The 24-year-old striker scored twice in
West Ham's win over West Brom but is due to return to Liverpool in the
summer after his season-long loan. Asked about the chances of the former
Newcastle targetman staying, Allardyce said: "There is always a possibility.
"We will look at the end of the season and we will see what negotiations can
be done." Carroll joined Liverpool for a club record £35m fee in January
2011. He was signed to replace the departing Fernando Torres following the
Spaniard's £50m move to Chelsea but failed to establish himself at Anfield
and has since lost his place in the England squad. The 6ft 3in forward
featured in only two matches under new boss Brendan Rodgers this term before
joining the Hammers in August. His brace against the Baggies took his goal
tally to five for the London club and Allardyce said: "That was the best we
have seen of him here, because he has put two goals in, on top of a good
performance. "I hope this kicks him on to being a regular scorer for us in
the next eight games. "He is in a good frame of mind now and, finally after
a long wait, his fitness is good and that's why you are seeing these
performances and the goals are coming."
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Sam Allardyce wants Andy Carroll on permanant basis
KUMB.com
Filed: Saturday, 30th March 2013
By: Staff Writer
Sam Allardyce revealed tonight that he is keen to tie Andy Carroll to a
long-term contract - on a day that the on-loan striker hit a brace in West
Ham's 3-1 win over West Bromwich Albion. The on-loan striker scored a goal
in each half to help United move one step closer to Premier League safety as
West Brom were put to the sword at the Boleyn Ground this afternoon. Asked
in this evening's post-match press conference if there was a chance of
Carroll's loan deal being made permanant, Allardyce replied: "There's always
a possibility. "When we get down to budgeting and see what negotiations can
or can't be done, then you have a look at anything and everything that comes
your way."
And when pressed as to whether he would personally like Carroll to remain at
the Boleyn Ground beyond the end of his season-long loan, Allardyce replied:
"I think the answer to that would be yes - but there are a lot of things
that need to happen between now and then to make sure we can try and pursue
this transfer. "We will look at it at the end of the season when we're safe
and see what we need to do. "
As part of the deal that saw Carroll join West Ham from Liverpool last
August, the Hammers retain an option to make the 24-year-old England
international's deal permanent for a figure reported to be in the region of
£17million.
* We'll have Sam Allardyce's post-match press conference for you in full
shortly - plus that of West Brom manager Steve Clarke.
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West Ham United 3-1 West Bromwich Albion
KUMB.com
Filed: Saturday, 30th March 2013
By: Staff Writer
A brace from Andy Carroll has virtually assured West Ham of Premier League
safety. The big striker, who has been the recipient of much criticism in
recent weeks for failing to score sufficient goals stepped up to the plate
today to score a goal in either half that sent United on their way to a
seventh home league win of the season. The Irons were rewarded for a
promising opening when Carroll opened the scoring on the quarter-hour mark
with a fierce header from man-of-the-match Gary O'Neil's left-sided corner.
And the lead was doubled on 28 minutes when provider turned scorer as O'Neil
grabbed his first goal of the season. Ricardo Vaz Te's fifty-yard run
culminated in a short pass to O'Neil, who sent a looping volley over Foster
into the far corner of the net. Despite a promising start to the second
period, the Baggies continued to come up short in front of goal - and paid
the price for their profligacy when Carroll added a third for West Ham with
just ten minutes left on the clock.
James Collins, fouled in the centre circle picked himself up before
flighting a deep free kick towards the Albion penalty area. Carroll,
positioned between both central defenders watched the ball drop over his
shoulder before firing a volley - with his 'wrong' foot, his right - across
Foster into the far corner of the net.
There was however to be a late consolation for West Brom, who won a late
penalty when Matt Taylor was adjudged to have backed into Roman Lukaku.
Former Hammers transfer target Graham Dorrans stepped up to fire home his
first goal of the season. However they were to finish the game with only ten
men following an incredible show of petulance by Youssouf Mulumbu, who
responded to a tug on his shirt by Gary O'Neil by picking up the ball and
kicking it at O'Neil - a reaction that saw him instantly dismissed by Andre
Marriner.
West Ham had also been forced to play the remaining ten minutes a man short
after George McCartney, on as a late replacement for Guy Demel in his first
appearance of 2013 pulled up just three minutes after coming on. The win
lifts West Ham up to 11th place in the table, 13 points clear of bottom two
Reading and Queens Park Rangers and six points clear of 18th -placed Aston
Villa. We'll have the reaction of both managers for you shortly.
West Ham Utd 3-1 West Bromwich Albion: match facts
West Ham Utd: Jaaskelainen, Demel (McCartney 79), O'Brien, Reid, Collins,
O'Neil, Diame (Collison 82), Nolan (Taylor 69), Vaz Te, Jarvis, Carroll.
Subs not used: Henderson, Tomkins, Chamakh, C.Cole.
Goals: Carroll (16, 80), O'Neil (28).
Shots on/off target: 8/8.
Booked: Reid (78).
West Bromwich Albion: Foster, Jones, McAuley, Olsson, Ridgewell, Yacob
(Odemwingie 71), Brunt, Dorrans, Mulumbu, Long (Rosenberg 71), Lukaku.
Subs not used: Myhill, Popov, Tamas, Thomas, Fortune.
Goals: Dorrans (pen 88).
Shots on/off target: 12/8.
Booked: Long (67).
Referee: Andre Marriner.
Attendance: 34,966.
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George McCartney's season over
KUMB.com
Filed: Saturday, 30th March 2013
By: Staff Writer
West Ham left back George McCartney is almost certainly out for the rest of
the season after it was confirmed he had suffered medial ligament damage.
The Irish defender, who was making his first appearance since December 2012
lasted just three minutes on his comeback before sustaining exactly the same
injury as that which led to his recent enforced break. The bad news was
confirmed tonight by West Ham United manager Sam Allardyce. "It's a
re-occurrence of the same injury, which is a big disappointment for both him
and us," he told a press conference following this afternoon's 3-1 win over
West Bromwich Albion. "We're disappointed for George because he's waited so
long to come back. He was so eager to get on; we thought "let's give him a
little run-out now and save the lads' legs". But sadly, he goes down with
the same injury."
McCartney, who is in the second year of his second spell at the club was a
firm fixture in Allardyce's starting XI before sustaining the orginal injury
last December. The defender, who is 32 next month, has another year of his
current two-year contract, which ends in the summer of 2014, to run.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham defender George McCartney may miss rest of season with knee injury
Last Updated: March 30, 2013 7:09pm
SSN
West Ham may be without George McCartney for the season's run-in with the
defender suffering a knee injury in Saturday's 3-1 win over West Brom. It is
a massive blow for McCartney who came off the bench in the 78th minute to
make his first appearance since suffering medial ligament damage in his knee
four months ago. The full-back hobbled off in injury time after suffering
the same problem. "I would have thought he will miss the rest of the
season," Hammers boss Sam Allardyce said."It's a recurrence of the same
injury, his medial ligaments, which is a very big disappointment for him and
for us. We are disappointed for him because he has waited so long to get
back, and get on the pitch. "We thought we would give him a run out and give
the lads who had done so well a rest, but sadly he went down with the same
injury." At least the three points were some consolation as an Andy Carroll
double and Gary O'Neil's strike steered the London side up to 11th and six
points from the drop zone.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Andy Carroll scores twice as West Ham beat West Brom 3-1
By Tim Oscroft. Last Updated: March 30, 2013 7:35pm
SSN
Two goals from Andy Carroll helped West Ham take a step towards Premier
League safety with a 3-1 win over West Brom. The on-loan striker opened the
scoring with a powerful header from a corner, with Gary O'Neil doubling the
lead inside 30 minutes. Carroll's deft finish put the Hammers clear and,
although Graeme Dorrans pulled one back, West Brom finished with 10 men when
Youssouf Mulumbu was sent off in stoppage-time.
Best of the match
Goal of the match: West Ham's first two goals caught the eye in different
ways, but the third will linger long in the memory. Andy Carroll capped an
excellent display by latching onto to a James Collins free kick with a
sublime first-time volley that gave Ben Foster no chance in the West Brom
goal.
Save of the match: Jussi Jaaskelainen, surely one of the most under-rated
keepers of recent times, flung out his right hand when wrong-footed by a
deflection on a Lukaku free kick to touch the ball onto the post. It
rebounded to safety, and within minutes West Ham were ahead and away,
putting the Finn's efforts into more context.
Man of the match: Gary O'Neil was excellent and thoroughly deserved his
goal, but Andy Carroll takes the plaudits for an all-round performance that
showed off all sides to his game - power in the air, an eye for goal at a
set-piece, good work on the ground and going for placement over power at a
crucial moment.
Talking point: Youssuf Mulumbu's dismissal did not affect the outcome, so
the talking point is Andy Carroll's performance. It feels like his season is
only just getting going after his injuries, and on this evidence he deserves
a chance with England in the summer, but it remains to be seen if he can
keep his run of form going until the end of the league campaign.
West Ham were playing on home turf for the first time since the confirmation
of their move away from the Boleyn Ground to the Olympic Stadium.
Maintaining their Premier League status between now and August 2016 is of
the utmost importance, and three of the five points Sam Allardyce had
targeted from their remaining nine games would go a long way to allaying any
nagging fears of a swift return to the Championship.
A lively start saw both sides exchange chances before Carroll did open the
scoring. Ricardo Vaz Te wasted an opening when he lashed a volley to the
right of the post, and West Brom saw a goal rightfully disallowed when
Gareth McAuley bundled the ball in at a corner, having collided with Jussi
Jaaskelainen in the process.
The home keeper then made a brilliant save that doubled in value shortly
afterwards. Romelu Lukaku's free-kick took a deflection that wrong-footed
the former Bolton veteran, but he flung out his right hand to touch the ball
onto the post and back into his hands.
When Carroll rose above the West Brom defence to head the ball past a
helpless Ben Foster, Jaaskelainen's save was put into context, and Mohamed
Diame went close to doubling the lead seconds later with a rasping shot that
tore past a static Foster to go just over the bar.
Matt Jarvis shot over from close range, but West Ham did add to their lead
on 28 minutes through a rapid counter-attack from a West Brom corner. Vaz Te
teased the West Brom defence before finding O'Neil, who looped the ball
across and beyond Foster with a sublime finish.
The hosts stayed in control until the break, but West Brom were a different
proposition afterwards. Lukaku looked more like his old forceful self, but
it was defender Billy Jones who went closest to scoring, driving into the
box and forcing Jaaskelainen to smother his poked shot just a few yards out.
The arrival of Peter Odemwingie, booed by some West Brom fans for his recent
Twitter outburst, upped the Baggies' tempo and the home fans were becoming
anxious when Carroll settled the match with a moment of outstanding skill.
James Collins' free-kick dropped over the striker's right shoulder, and as
he moved away from Jonas Olsson, Carroll volleyed the ball across and past
Foster for his fourth goal in four games.
West Brom pulled one back with two minutes to go from the penalty spot after
Lukaku had been caught by Matt Taylor and Winston Reid. Graham Dorrans fired
the ball past Jaaskelainen, but the game ended badly for West Brom when
Mulumbu lashed the ball in frustration at a West Ham player after conceding
a free-kick deep into stoppage-time.
Referee Andre Marriner showed the midfielder a straight red card, meaning he
will miss the next three games as West Brom's hopes of European football
next season receded further.
Speaking after the game, Allardyce was full of praise for Carroll and was
pleased the striker was able to demonstrate the full range of his ability.
Clarke upset with three goal defeat
Allardyce said: "He's not just strong in the air, as people perceive is his
only strength, it's the quality on the floor, the hold-up play and then the
technique on the volley, as we saw, was outstanding. It was a world-class
finish, nobody can take that away from him, it was outstanding." But
Allardyce's counterpart Steve Clarke was left to lament a performance which
he felt was unlike his West Brom team. Clarke said: "In the first half, West
Ham were better than us at the ugly side, winning the second balls and
keeping the pressure on us. "They did that well, and we didn't do it well
enough. The goals we conceded are not like us, they were three disappointing
goals to lose."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham boss Sam Allardyce praises Andy Carroll after 3-1 win over West
Brom
By Tim Oscroft. Last Updated: March 30, 2013 6:49pm
SSN
West Ham manager Sam Allardyce hailed striker Andy Carroll's "world class"
contribution to Saturday's 3-1 win over West Brom. The England
international, on loan from Liverpool, scored twice in a win that helped
allay lingering fears of a relegation battle for the Hammers. Having headed
the home side in front from a first-half corner, Carroll's second was a
sublime first-time volley having allowed the ball to drop over his shoulder
from a free-kick with 10 minutes remaining.
In Allardyce's opinion, the goals were just reward for an all-round
performance of the highest quality from the 24-year-old. "His performances
have equalled that, but he has not put the ball in the back of the net as
regularly as we would have liked," Allardyce asserted. "Getting a brace
today is fantastic for him, and today showed what he is all about. "He's not
just strong in the air, as people perceive is his only strength, it's the
quality on the floor, the hold-up play and then the technique on the volley,
as we saw, was outstanding. "It was a world-class finish, nobody can take
that away from him, it was outstanding."
Allardyce had talked before the match of a need for five points from the
remaining nine games to secure a place in the Premier League, a matter that
is of even more importance with a move to the Olympic Stadium pencilled in
for 2016. "With Wigan winning and closing the gap it was a very important
win for us today, it puts us back in 11th spot so we're moving back up the
table. We've been hovering around there all season, so it shows the
consistency," he added.
"There's a new future ahead for West Ham, and it's a focus to build for that
future. I only focus on the next game, get the club in a position to re-plan
and organise for next season. We're not quite there yet, but we're looking
very comfortable." Allardyce also confirmed that substitute George McCartney
had hobbled off late on with a recurrence of a knee injury that had kept him
out of action for four months.
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West Ham 3 West Brom 1
The Sun
By ANDREW DILLON
Last Updated: 31st March 2013
WEST HAM celebrated getting the keys to the Olympic Stadium by staging their
own version of Super Saturday. And boss Sam Allardyce wants Andy Carroll to
come with them when they move up the road to Stratford in three years' time.
Two goals from the on-loan Liverpool striker finally showed fans what he is
capable of. Big Sam's work establishing Hammers as a top-flight team
following promotion last season is almost done. But the tough task of
persuading Carroll that his future belongs in the East End and shoehorning
£17million out of the Upton Park board will go right to the summer.
WEST HAM boss praises his star striker after he scored twice in a 3-1
victory over West Brom at Upton Park It was perhaps fitting that the team
put on a show in the week after a huge 'For Sale' sign was hung on Upton
Park in preparation for uprooting. Carroll was the star attraction. Not
exactly Usain Bolt but a gold medal performance with two goals — the second
an exquisite volley to sandwich a beauty from Gary O'Neil.
WEST BROM boss believes home team were the better side and his team's
defence let them down "The last time we played at Upton Park we lost in the
last minute and we have had some good performances which have not been
rewarded with goals. "This time we saw three different types of goal, with
Andy showing his heading ability. "I hope this will kick Andy on and he can
become a regular goalscorer for the next eight games or so. His match
fitness is finally here and he is enjoying himself, that is the main thing.
"We will look at things at the end of the season. I have to say I would like
him to stay but it is also about budgeting." Hammers joint-chairman David
Sullivan admits his team needs major reconstruction to reflect its planned
move to a 54,000-seater des res in 2016.
Yesterday, their much-loved if outdated home in E13 was rocking as Carroll
not only doubled his tally for the season but also took a typical battering
in working for the team. After a few early wobbles when Jussi Jaaskelainen
fumbled Graeme Dorrans' sixth-minute shot then redeemed himself with a
superb save from Romelu Lukaku's free-kick, it was Carroll time. On 16
minutes, Carroll climbed above Baggies defender Jonas Olsson and powered
home a bullet header from an O'Neil corner. West Brom were wobbling and
caught again when Ricardo Vaz Te dashed straight down their defence's
throat, held up play, drew two defenders then squared the ball for O'Neil to
cleverly chip keeper Ben Foster.
Despite a few flurries from West Brom, it was West Ham all the way. And they
sealed victory 11 minutes from time when Carroll latched on to James
Collins' free-kick and fired a stunning right-foot volley into the net.
Dorrans netted a consolation penalty three minutes from time when Lukaku was
sandwiched in the box between Winston Reid and Matt Taylor. And both teams
ended with 10 men — West Ham when sub George McCartney had to go off with a
recurrence of his knee injury and West Brom thanks to Yousouf Mulumbu's daft
last-minute red card. Unlucky McCartney is out for the season while Mulumbu
will be banned for three games after he reacted angrily to a tug by O'Neil,
picked the ball and booted it at the Hammers man. Frustrated boss Steve
Clarke said: "We have no complaints about the result. But you have got to
learn to control your emotions. "That sending off doesn't affect today's
game but it affects the next three."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham 3-1 West Brom: Carroll brace lifts Irons away from drop zone
The Mirror
30 Mar 2013 17:40
Andy Carroll made a convincing case for his future to be part of the
long-term strategy unveiled by West Ham last week – and that is fine by Sam
Allardyce.
The club have sealed their projected move to the Olympic Stadium and a new
contract for manager Allardyce has reached the stage when only the finer
points need to be agreed. And how Allardyce would love to be able to call on
Carroll as he attempts to build on the Premier League status that is now all
but secured after a comprehensive win over a West Brom side drifting towards
a mid-table finish with pride rather than points as their only incentive.
West Ham established a first-half superiority that was never truly
challenged and at the hub of all that was Carroll. He now looks fit, sharp
and mobile – and almost unplayable in the air. The Baggies' central defence
of Jonas Olsson and Gareth McAuley never looked at ease.
Carroll is on loan from Liverpool for the season and West Ham have a
decision to make come May. An offer of about £15million is thought to be
acceptable at Anfield as the club look to cut their losses on the man who
cost more than £30m from Newcastle. That will mean the West Ham hierarchy
have to dig deep into their resources but on yesterday's evidence, it would
be a risk worth taking. Allardyce said: "Would I like him here next season?
The answer is yes. But there are a lot of things that need to do be done. We
will have to look at the end of the season when we get down to budgets. "But
Andy showed today what a threat he is."
The one disappointment for Allardyce was that defender George McCartney is
set to miss the rest of the season with a recurrence of a medial knee
ligament injury. Albion were out of it by the time Andre Marriner blew for
half-time and they could have no complaints about the outcome. Yet they
could have scored first when a free-kick from the subdued Romelu Lukakau
took a deflection off Gary O'Neil and Jussi Jaaskelainen need to change
direction to knock the ball on to a post before smothering the rebound. It
was a false dawn. After that, it became the Carroll show. In the 16th minute
he headed home a corner from O'Neil, who went on to double the advantage
with an exquisite finish 12 minutes later. Albion revived a little in the
second half but were unable to penetrate a rearguard superbly marshalled by
James Collins and Winston Reid. And in the 80th minute, the game was made
safe when Carroll volleyed in a free-kick from Collins on the turn and the
points were assured.
Albion did pull a goal back in the 88th minute from a Graham Dorrans penalty
after Lukaku was fouled by Matt Taylor but the game was gone. Indeed, there
was time for humour as the West Ham fans greeted the arrival of Albion
substitute Peter Odemwingie with the chorus: " He went to QPR and was left
there in his car", to remind the striker of his abortive attempt to move
during the transfer window. There was a flash of indiscipline from Youssouf
Mulumbu who was sent off for volleying the ball at O'Neil after a niggling
rather than violent foul. "It was frustration," said Albion manager Steve
Clarke. "But we only have a small squad and now we will be losing a player
for three matches. "Andy Carroll had a really good day and took his goals
well. But we have not had many days like this and we will dust ourselves off
and be ready for Arsenal next week."
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Summer of Sam: Tottenham and West Ham set to battle for £10m Lyon defender
Umtiti
The Mirror
30 Mar 2013 22:28
Jamie McDonald
Tottenham and West Ham are ready to move for France Under-20 international
Samuel Umtiti. The Cameroon-born defender is currently at Olympique Lyon
and is valued at around £10m. He came to Spurs' notice when he scored a
stunning goal for his club in the Europa League at White Hart Lane.
Lyon were eventually eliminated – but the 19-year-old impressed Spurs
manager Andre Villas-Boas. West Ham are also keen and the two London clubs
are set to do battle for his signature this summer. AC Milan are interested
but Umtiti may feel that he has more chance of regular first-team football
here.
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