Noble is Hammer of the Year
WHUFC.com
Mark Noble takes the Hammer of the Year prize for the second time
06.05.2014
WEST HAM UNITED 2013/14 PLAYER AWARDS
IN AID OF THE ACADEMY
TUESDAY 6 MAY 2014
GROSVENOR HOUSE, A JW MARRIOTT HOTEL
West Ham United 2013/14 Player Awards
11.35pm - The Club's second recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award, Sir
Trevor Brooking, reacts to his accolade:
Sir Trevor: "I'm delighted. It's great when you've got a lot of fans here,
who really appreciate what you did in the past. They know that I'm still
very fond of the Club and after 19 years of playing for them I've got some
great memories. Nothing can take that away. "I spoke to Bonzo, Billy Bonds,
who got last year's award. Billy and I are good mates, we played together a
lot. He said it was a great evening and it makes you realise how lucky you
are to have had that career with a Club for so long."
11.20pm - We're back! This time with some quotes from Hammer of the Year
Mark Noble! Noble: "It's been a tough season, but with the injuries we've
had, we've not quite got what we deserved, but now we're 12th in the league.
I've thoroughly enjoyed it. It's going to be nice to go up to Manchester
City, give a good account of ourselves and then go on holiday. We've done
well to get out of the position we were in at Christmas, and that's credit
to the lads. "I put my own season down to hard work and wanting to improve
all the time. I just love coming into work and I think it shows. "I support
the Gaffer because I have played every single game under Sam since he has
come and I've won two Hammer of the Year awards. The Gaffer has never asked
me to boot it. I try to get on the ball and make us play as much as possible
and that's what has happened."
11.05pm - Host Ben Shephard brings the event to a close. Thanks for joining
us and congratulations to all our winners!
Here's a recap of who won what...
Hammer of the Year sponsored by Alpari FX Mark Noble
Lifetime Achievement Award sponsored by ACL Sir Trevor Brooking
Signing of the Season sponsored by S14 VIP Ltd Adrian
Players' Player of the Year sponsored by Asmatt Mark Noble
Best Team Performance sponsored by Call Print 3-0 v Tottenham Hotspur (a),
Barclays Premier League
Best Individual Performance sponsored by Ark Build Adrian v Chelsea (a),
Barclays Premier League
Top Goalscorer sponsored by Mulalley Kevin Nolan
Save of the Season sponsored by Higgins Adrian from Oscar v Chelsea (a),
Barclays Premier League
Young Hammer of the Year Sam Howes
Dylan Tombides Award Josh Cullen
Goal of the Season sponsored by Lookers Range Rover Essex Ravel Morrison
10.54pm - Now it's time for the big one - Hammer of the Year sponsored by
Alpari...
Mark Noble is your Hammer of the Year, sponsored by Alpari FX, for the
second time!
Noble follows in the footsteps of tonight's Lifetime Achievement Award
recipient Sir Trevor Brooking, Sir Geoff Hurst, Bobby Moore OBE, Billy Bonds
MBE, Alvin Martin, Scott Parker, Julian Dicks and Steve Potts in becoming a
multiple-time Hammer of the Year. The 26-year-old midfielder has started all
37 of West Ham's Barclays Premier League games, scoring three goals and
recording four assists. Undoubtedly the engine room of Sam Allardyce's side,
Noble has attempted 1,926 passes in the league this season, directly
creating more than 60 chances for his team-mates.
Playing in a more withdrawn role, most commonly alongside Kevin Nolan and
Mohamed Diame, Noble has also put in 107 tackles, made 70 interceptions and
blocked 16 opposition shots. A tireless worker, the No16 has run further
than any other West Ham player this season.
Runner-up to Noble is goalkeeper Adrian, who burst into the Hammers side on
a regular basis just before Christmas and has hardly looked back since.
The agile Spaniard has conceded just 25 goals in 19 Barclays Premier League
matches since making his league debut at Manchester United on 21 December,
keeping six clean sheets and producing a highlight-reel of splendid saves. A
summer capture from Real Betis, Adrian also helped West Ham to reach the
semi-finals of the Capital One Cup, playing in wins over Cheltenham Town,
Cardiff City, Burnley and Tottenham Hotspur before producing another fine
display in the semi-final first-leg defeat at Manchester City.
Third place in the voting went to centre-back James Tomkins, who took full
advantage of injuries to his team-mates to enjoy a fine season at the heart
of the Hammers back four. The 25-year-old started eleven of West Ham's 14
Barclays Premier League clean sheets, forging strong partnerships with
Winston Reid, James Collins and Roger Johnson.
10.44pm - That is the live auction completed for the evening. We
congratulate all the winners and hope they enjoy the once-in-a-lifetime
experiences they have secured tonight! Thank you one and all - the funds
raised will go towards producing the next great players to emerge from the
West Ham United Academy.
To complete what has been a memorable night, the final two awards will now
be presented - Hammer of the Year and the Lifetime Achievement Award
Sir Trevor Brooking is a true West Ham United great and he is recognised
tonight for a career that spanned more than 600 games, 102 goals and 47
England caps.
It does not need me to tell you all that Sir Trevor is a more than worthy
winner of the second annual Lifetime Achievement Award. The gifted attacking
midfielder spent virtually his entire professional career at the Boleyn
Ground, making 647 first-team appearances and scoring 102 goals, including
the winner in the 1980 FA Cup final. Sir Trevor was also voted Hammer of the
Year an unrivalled five times. Sir Trevor, who made his West Ham debut at 18
in 1967 and also won the FA Cup in 1975, earned 47 England caps, scoring for
his country at Euro 1980 and appearing at the 1982 FIFA World Cup finals. In
April 2003, Sir Trevor took over for a brief but successful spell as
caretaker manager, winning nine and losing just one of the 14 matches of
which he took charge. In August 2009, the Boleyn Ground's Centenary Stand
was renamed the Sir Trevor Brooking Stand in his honour. An outstanding
footballer and a true gentleman, Sir Trevor has contributed hugely to
English football in recent years, holding a variety of roles within the
Football Association and Sport England, among others.
He becomes the second recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award, following
in the footsteps of his long-time team-mate and two-times FA Cup winning
captain Billy Bonds MBE, who was presented with the trophy in 2013.
10.35pm - We've been talking to Adrian after he picked up a hat-trick of
awards at the end of his first season with West Ham United. It's fair to say
he's quite happy, particularly after taking a selfie with host Ben Shephard
and the guests after picking up the Individual Performance of the Season
award! Adrian: "It's amazing for me. It's my first season here and the fans
have voted for me for these awards. Chelsea was my best match but was not
just me because all my team-mates made a really good match. That point was
really important for us in the league, on reflection. "I think this was like
the match I played for Real Betis against Real Madrid last season, but I
remember the Chelsea match well and it was better. "My relationship with the
fans is unbelievable. In a little time, it has become a special
relationship. I made a smile for everyone by taking selfie with them!"
10.27pm - Next we conclude our live auction, then it's time for the final
two awards!
10.22pm - The 2013/14 Signing of the Season, sponsored by S14 VIP Limited,
is Adrian! The agile Spaniard has conceded just 25 goals in 19 Barclays
Premier League matches since making his league debut at Manchester United on
21 December, keeping six clean sheets and producing a highlight-reel of
splendid saves. A summer capture from Real Betis, Adrian also helped West
Ham to reach the semi-finals of the Capital One Cup, playing in wins over
Cheltenham Town, Cardiff City, Burnley and Tottenham Hotspur before
producing another fine display in the semi-final first-leg defeat at
Manchester City.
A fans' favourite, the 27-year-old has also built up a close rapport with
the Claret and Blue Army for his positive attitude, never-say-die approach
and entertaining and engaging use of social media.
Second to Adrian came England winger Stewart Downing, who capped a decent
season with his first goal for the Club in Saturday's 2-0 win over Tottenham
Hotspur, while third went to Andy Carroll.
10.15pm - The 2013/14 Players' Player of the Year, sponsored by Asmatt, is
Mark Noble! The Club's longest servant takes the crown from Winston Reid,
who topped last term's player vote.
Noble has started each and every Barclays Premier League clash this season,
consistently producing the calibre of performance that helps the Hammers
tick.
Here is what some of his team-mates had to say about the Canning Town-born
midfielder.
Stewart Downing: "He's had a consistently good season. He's played well,
week in, week out. He passes me the ball a lot. That helps! He's good to
have around. Very vocal, obviously he can be serious when he needs to be
and, on top of that, he's a very good player.
Winston Reid: "You know what you're going to get from him when he goes out
onto the pitch and performs. He's a leader and the team can rely on him."
James Collins: "I think he's just been spot on, every game this year and
probably for the last four or five years to be honest. He's probably the
most consistent player we've had over the last couple of years and I think
he deserves it.
"He's got a lot of experience and that shows in and around the training
ground and on a Saturday. He's always one of our top performers. Good
banter, good lad, he gets on with everyone. He is Mr West Ham, so it's
probably deserved. He's a great lad and a terrific footballer."
10.11pm - West Ham produced a number of memorable displays through the
course of the 2013/14 season, including three unforgettable victories over
local rivals Tottenham Hotspur.
Therefore, it should come as no surprise that one of those successes has
been voted Best Team Performance, sponsored by Call Print.
The 3-0 Barclays Premier League win at White Hart Lane last October had
absolutely everything. After a resilient first-half display, West Ham
maintained their clean sheet when Jussi Jaaskelainen made a fine save from
former Hammer Jermain Defoe just after half-time. The Hammers then took
control, when first Winston Reid converted after his initial effort had been
inadvertently blocked by Kevin Nolan. Ricardo Vaz Te then latched onto Mark
Noble's through ball before beating Hugo Lloris at the second attempt to
make it 2-0. To complete an amazing afternoon, Ravel Morrison collected
Mohamed Diame's pass before streaking past Michael Dawson and Jan Vertonghen
and clipping a finish over Lloris and into the net to send the Claret and
Blue Army into a state of rapture.
The goalless draw at Chelsea in late January took second place in the
voting, while third went to the 2-1 Capital One Cup quarter-final success
over Spurs at White Hart Lane in December.
10.05pm - We're back with our next batch of awards...
The winner of the Best Individual Performance of the 2013/14 season,
sponsored by Ark Build, was goalkeeper Adrian's unbeatable display in the
vital goalless Barclays Premier League draw at Chelsea on 29 January this
year. At Stamford Bridge, the Spanish stopper helped the Hammers grab an
unlikely point at Stamford Bridge with saves from Samuel Eto'o, Oscar, Frank
Lampard and Eden Hazard, among others. In all, Jose Mourinho's men unleashed
39 shots on Adrian's goal, but the goalkeeper, his team-mates and West Ham's
19th century football ensured a share of the spoils and set the platform for
a perfect February.
Mark Noble took second place in the voting for his outstanding midfield
display in the 2-0 win at Cardiff City in January, when he capped an
all-action performance by scoring ten-man West Ham's late second goal.
Third was taken by Kevin Nolan for his two-goal show in the 2-0 home victory
over Swansea City in February.
9.15pm - Kevin Nolan has given his reaction to winning the Top Goalscorer
award for the second season in succession. Nolan is also determined that we
will enjoy a better season in 2013/14. He bagged five vital goals in
February and netted seven in total to lead the way.
Nolan: "I always say that the most pleasing aspect is that I have scored
goals that contributed to massive wins and got us the three points. That's
all that matters to me. I don't want double figures every year, I want
figures that mean we get points on the board and I think all my goals have
been really important this year, so I'm really happy.
"I think it was important in February. I went away and worked hard. Eamon
Swift the fitness coach got hold of me and he just went to town, working me
hard and when I came back I hit it. It just came together as it does
sometimes and I was delighted if I'm honest. It was a great month and I'm
delighted we got the points on the board as we did.
"I like to think I'm the best finisher in the Club, but that's my game. I
give 110 per cent to the Club and have done since I've been here. We've got
a great squad and great staff and, no matter what anyone has said over this
past year and everything that's been thrown at us, I don't think any other
Club would have been able to deal with it and stay up, but we have. It's a
credit to the lads, a credit to the Gaffer and a credit to everyone who has
been involved with us.
"It's a nice relief knowing we have another year to look forward to in the
Premier League."
9pm - Wrapping up the first batch of awards is Top Goalscorer sponsored by
Mulalley.
Sponsored by Mulalley, skipper Kevin Nolan is the Hammers' top marksman for
the second successive season.
The Hammers captain is approaching 100 career league goals after another
impressive campaign in front of the opposition net.
After netting in the opening-day win over Cardiff City and then in a 3-3
December draw with West Bromwich Albion, Nolan's seven goals came largely in
a bunch this season.
The Hammers' No4 bagged five in just four matches in February - two against
Swansea City, two at Aston Villa and another single strike in the home win
over Southampton.
The 31-year-old has held off competition from Carlton Cole and Ravel
Morrison, who bagged six and five goals respectively.
Having seen the first five awards being presented, we are now going to take
a short break for the silent auction winners to collect their prizes and
guests to enjoy their dessert, tea and coffee.
After that, we will see four more awards presented.
After a short hiatus for the second part of the live auction, it will be
time for the main events of the night - the presentation of the second
Lifetime Achievement Award and the crowning of the 2013/14 Hammer of the
Year.
8.55pm - The awards are coming thick and fast, next is Best Save of the
Season sponsored by Higgins...
It would come as no surprise to supporters that just two men were in the
running this award - Jussi Jaaskelainen and Adrian!
Between them, the two goalkeepers have kept 14 Barclays Premier League clean
sheets, setting the base on which Sam Allardyce's team have achieved safety
for the second season in succession.
Aside from doing the basics well, both stoppers have, at times, been called
upon to make truly spectacular saves to keep their goal intact - but which
was the very best?
Well, you have voted your Save of the Season for 2013/14, sponsored by
Higgins, to be Adrian's flying fingertip stop to divert a curling shot from
Chelsea's Oscar onto the crossbar during the goalless Barclays Premier
League draw at Stamford Bridge on 29 January!
Adrian also took second and third place in the voting for his outstanding
stops from Norwich City winger Robert Snodgrass and Manchester City striker
Edin Dzeko.
8.52pm - Tony Carr remains on stage to present the Young Hammer of the Year
award...
The 2013/14 Young Hammer of the Year, as named by Academy Director Tony Carr
MBE, is promising goalkeeper Sam Howes.
Despite still being a schoolboy, 16-year-old Howes has this season become
the U18s' first-choice stopper.
Tall, confident and blessed with outstanding handling ability, Howes helped
the youth team to secure a place in Barclays U18 Premier League Play-Offs,
while he has also played five times for Nick Haycock's Development Squad.
Capped by England at age-group level, the 16-year-old is currently with the
England squad at the UEFA U17 European Championship finals in Malta.
First-year scholar and first-choice frontman Jordan Brown was a strong
contender too, with schoolboy and centre-half Josh Pask the other man to
narrowly miss out.
Again, Academy Director Carr is invited to share his reasons for picking
Howes as the winner.
8.50pm - Next is the Dylan Tombides Award...
This season, the Academy Player of the Year award has been renamed in honour
of the late Dylan Tombides.
A graduate who won the award himself in 2011, Dylan sadly passed away on
Friday 18 April 2014 following a courageous three-year battle with cancer.
This year's winner, as selected by Academy Director Tony Carr MBE, is
midfield dynamo Josh Cullen.
In the Mark Noble mould, Republic of Ireland U18 international Cullen has
long been considered one of the brightest stars of the West Ham United
Academy.
The 18-year-old was a virtual ever-present for Steve Potts' U18s prior to
his promotion to the Development Squad, featuring 21 times at that level.
Cullen has also managed nine Development Squad appearances, scoring in the
vital 2-1 Barclays U21 Premier League victory at Sunderland on the final day
of the season.
He edges out fellow midfielder and skipper Kieran Bywater, who has bagged 19
goals in all competitions this term, as well as attacking full-back and
second-year scholar Lewis Page.
Academy Director Tony Carr MBE is invited onto the stage to help present the
award to Cullen and explain his decision.
8.45pm - It is now time for the first five of this year's Player Awards to
be presented, starting with the Goal of the Season award…
The Goal of the Season award, sponsored by Lookers, goes to Ravel Morrison
for his amazing individual strike at Tottenham Hotspur in October 2013.
The youngster embarked on an unstoppable run through the heart of the Spurs
defence, showing incredible pace, balance and poise to speed past Michael
Dawson and Jan Vertonghen before clipping a neat finish over Hugo Lloris.
Morrison's goal, of course, completed an unforgettable 3-0 Barclays Premier
League victory at White Hart Lane - the first of three successes against the
Lillywhites from north London this season!
Second to Morrison came Kevin Nolan for his expertly controlled finish
against Swansea City to set West Ham on their way to a 2-0 home win in
February, while third in the voting was taken by Mark Noble for his clincher
at Cardiff City in January.
8.30pm - The guests have enjoyed their seafood tart and some lovely-looking
steak, so we will be announcing the first of tonight's awards very shortly!
8.05pm - It's now time for a bit of tucker. We'll be back shortly with
coverage of the first five awards of the evening! In the meantime, please
enjoy the photos and more from tonight's Player Awards so far on our social
media channels!
Sam Allardyce
8pm - Sam Allardyce is in positive mood and is looking forward to next
season following a challenging but ultimately fruitful second campaign back
in the Barclays Premier League.
Big Sam: "I think we're doing a good job and we're progressing. It has been
a difficult season, but there are lots of positives to be taken from it.
Yes, we don't want to do it again, but we have survived and kept our Premier
League status, which is very important going into the new stadium.
"We have to, as a Club, sit down and plan where we're going, what we're
doing and how we're going to build the squad. I think that the most
important thing is to build on the highlights we have had this season and
not dwell on the negativity. We've got to remember that we've beaten
Tottenham three times in a row! My best times this season were those games.
"We also went to the semi-final of the Capital One Cup and hit Manchester
City at the top of their form when we weren't so good. Yes, we did get
beaten 6-0, but we got to the semi-final, which wasn't an easy task - and we
beat Tottenham away again!
"I did say that Tottenham kept me in a job at the time, but in all
seriousness it was David Sullivan and David Gold who kept me in a job,
nobody else."
7.45pm - You can view exclusive images and video from tonight's Player
Awards on our social media channels. To access them, simply click on the
links above!
7.40pm - Host Ben Shephard gets the Player Awards underway by welcoming Big
Sam and his squad to the event. The staff and players receive a warm round
of applause as they make their way down the stairs and take their seats with
the guests. Shephard gets an even bigger cheer when he opens by mentioning
that the highlights of a 'rollercoaster' season were undoubtedly beating
Spurs three times!
7pm - Kevin Nolan has been speaking to us ahead of tonight's game. His
interview looking forward to tonight's Player Awards and Sunday's game at
Manchester City will appear on our YouTube channel very soon!
"I'm looking forward to it," said the captain. "It always makes it easier
when you know that everything is going to be fine. This weekend we've
obviously got a great game to look forward to with Man City and them going
for the title! It's going to be a great evening again, and it'll be nice to
see the lads enjoy themselves which is thoroughly deserved after a hard
season.
"It's always nice when you win on the weekend, especially when it's over
your local rivals in Tottenham Hotspur. It's been a hard season, but
Saturday means the lads can enjoy it, and we will enjoy it and beating your
local rivals three times makes it even more special!"
6.45pm - The players, management and Board have all arrived at the Grosvenor
House and we will soon be sitting down to a night of entertainment. Many of
the squad have stopped for a chat with West Ham TV on the way in and we will
be publishing those videos over the coming weeks. In the meantime, we will
also be publishing instant reaction video interviews following the
presentation of a number of tonight's awards. To watch those, please click
on the YouTube link above later in the evening!
Good evening and welcome to the sixth annual West Ham United Player Awards
in Aid of the Academy.
The players are expected here at Grosvenor House in London's Park Lane
within the next 15 minutes or so. We will be grabbing as many of them as
possible for interviews, photos and much more on what promises to be a
memorable evening.
Tonight's climax will be the presentation of the Lifetime Achievement Award,
sponsored by ACL, to Hammers and England great Sir Trevor Brooking.
Sir Trevor follows in the footsteps of Billy Bonds by being presented with
the prestigious award in honour of his long, illustrious and loyal 18-year
career with the Club, during which time he won two FA Cups, the Second
Division title, reached the European Cup Winners' Cup and League Cup finals
and earned 47 England caps.
Fast forward to the near-present and the 2013/14 Barclays Premier League
season has been something of a rollercoaster, but Saturday's 2-0 home win
over Tottenham Hotspur secured safety and means that we can all enjoy this
evening's festivities with a smile on our faces!
On New Year's Day, West Ham looked in grave danger of slipping out of the
top flight after just two seasons, with an injury-ravaged opening period
garnering just 15 points from 20 matches.
Indeed, two memorable victories at Tottenham Hotspur - in the Barclays
Premier League and then Capital One Cup quarter-final - were among the few
highlights before Christmas.
Defensively, West Ham had started well, keeping clean sheet after clean
sheet, but missed chances cost the Hammers dear when it came to scoring
goals and collecting points.
While Sam Allardyce's side may have slipped out of the knockout competitions
in January, their league form has picked up massively, with 25 points
accrued in the 17 matches since a New Year's Day defeat at Fulham.
In all, West Ham have recorded 14 clean sheets in the league - one shy of
the 1998/99 season record they could equal at Manchester City on Sunday.
Individually, the likes of Mark Noble, new signings Adrian and Stewart
Downing, James Tomkins, Matt Jarvis and Guy Demel have shown consistency,
while captain Kevin Nolan and attacking talisman Andy Carroll have returned
from suspension and injury respectively to enjoy productive ends to the
campaign.
All of the above, as well as the likes of James Collins, Winston Reid,
Mohamed Diame, Matt Taylor, Jussi Jaaskelainen, George McCartney and Carlton
Cole, will be in the running for the awards being handed out tonight.
At the junior levels, the Development Squad has produced a number of
first-team players - 14 Academy graduates have featured for Big Sam this
term - and finished safely inside the top half of the Barclays U21 Premier
League table.
Steve Potts has enjoyed a fantastic first full season in charge of the U18s,
guiding the youth team to the Barclays U18 Premier League Play-Offs, where
they face a semi-final clash with Manchester City later this week.
Tonight's Player Awards will raise thousands for the Academy, ensuring the
conveyor belt that has produced so many of the players who have raised the
Hammer of the Year award in years gone by, continues to roll smoothly.
We will have all the award winners as they are announced, complete with
exclusive reaction, video and photographs on this page, YouTube, West Ham TV
and on our official Facebook and Twitter pages.
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Nolan eyes future Hammers success
WHUFC.com
Kevin Nolan believes West Ham United are in a good position to build for
next season
06.05.2014
Kevin Nolan is eyeing a brighter future for his West Ham United side after
they ended their home programme for 2013/14 with a bang. The Hammers forgot
their recent disappointments with a commanding display in defeating local
rivals Tottenham Hotspur for a third time this season. But for an
outstanding display in goal from Hugo Lloris, West Ham would have won by an
even greater margin than the 2-0 the scorebook showed, with Nolan himself
being denied in breathtaking fashion by the Frenchman. The three points were
all that mattered to the No4 though, and he was delighted to sign off at the
Boleyn Ground in some style. "We had it all on Saturday," he said. "Everyone
to a man was fantastic and it just shows that if we were all fighting fit
for the majority of the season we would have seen a different West Ham. "I
couldn't believe it that he saved that chance from me in the second half,
and I wanted to end at home with a goal. The ones which mean something are
the goals that matter to me, and when I look back at the goals I've scored,
every one has been in good circumstances to take us on to the win or make it
safe. "Not making it to ten doesn't matter, it's about goals which make a
difference to the team. Hopefully I can nick one next week, but I was just
delighted with the win and the performance on Saturday. "Sometimes we
haven't been good enough this season, and we're an honest enough bunch of
lads to hold our hands up to that. "With the quality we've built here, we
were able to hang on in there. We hung on in there until January, and then
went on that fantastic run which we knew we could do. "Losing four games on
the trot twice this season is disappointing and it's something we'll be
working to avoid next year. "That's for next season now, this year has been
tough but we've come through it and I'm proud to lead those boys in the
dressing room."
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Hammers confirm Stevenage friendly
WHUFC.com
West Ham United will travel to Stevenage FC for a pre-season match on
Saturday 12 July
06.05.2014
West Ham United will travel to Sky Bet League Two side Stevenage for a
pre-season match on Saturday 12 July (kick-off 3pm) as Sam Allardyce's men
gear up for the 2014/15 campaign. In the first of their domestic summer 2014
friendlies to be confirmed, the Hammers will make the short journey to
Hertfordshire to take on a Boro team who reached the fourth round of the FA
Cup this term. Stevenage could not match those heights in their league
campaign and were relegated from League One following their defeat to
Bristol City on Easter Monday, although they will be looking to bounce
straight back next term. The Hammers have never faced Stevenage in
competitive action, although young striker Tony Stokes did score once in
three Conference Premier appearances for the Lamex Stadium club whilst on
loan from West Ham in the 2007/08 season. More recently, Kevin Nolan, Mark
Noble, Joe Cole, Andy Carroll, James Collins and Matt Jarvis all took part
in the Mitchell Cole Benefit Game at Stevenage last May.
Later in pre-season, West Ham will travel to New Zealand for fixtures
against Wellington Phoenix and Sydney FC as part of a tournament also
featuring Newcastle United. Big Sam's side will then take part in the
Schalke 04 Cup in Germany, alongside hosts Schalke, Newcastle United and La
Liga outfit Malaga CF. The tournament, which will be played at Schalke's
Veltins-Arena on 2 & 3 August, sees the Hammers face two of the three other
competing teams.
Ticketing details for the trip to Stevenage will be announced on whufc.com
in due course.
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Tomkins targets title twist
WHUFC.com
James Tomkins believes West Ham will have a part to play in the destination
of this year's title
06.05.2014
James Tomkins is in the mood to make sure West Ham United have their say in
the Barclays Premier League title race when they take on Manchester City in
the final game of the Barclays Premier League on Sunday. The Hammers have
the power to change the destination of the title should they manage to pull
off a win at the Etihad Stadium coupled with a victory for Liverpool. With
the Club having secured their top flight safety following a 2-0 home win
against Tottenham Hotspur last time out, Tomkins is now keen to help the
Hammers have a say in the destination of the Premier League trophy. "We'll
approach it in the same sort of manner as we approached the game against
Tottenham. We know we can have a say in the title race which is good. "It's
obviously a televised game now, which is great. We're going to be up for it
and hopefully we can have a say in who wins the league. "At their place it's
always a hard place to play. Anything can happen on the day, look what
happened a couple of years ago at QPR and what they did. They nearly caused
an upset and hopefully we can have our say."
The Hammers head to Manchester with renewed confidence after a fine team
performance which saw off Spurs for the third time this season in the Club's
last home match of the campaign. Victory against the north Londoners came on
the back of four straight defeats and the defender felt getting off to a
fast start helped put the match to bed by half-time. "It feels like it's
been a long time coming now with the four defeats, but to end it at home to
Spurs with a victory - the third one over them this year - is great and it
means the fans have got something to be happy about this season. "We started
well, we started well in the last few games I think, but one bit of skill
from Stewy has drawn the defender in for a tackle and he's been sent-off.
"From then on in you're thinking that we can win. It's always hard against
ten men but we managed to do our best and scoring two goals in the first
half killed them off."
The whole team played their part against Spurs, with Tomkins and the back
four laying the foundations for victory with a solid defensive display which
restricted the visitors to just three shots on target. The clean sheet added
to the team's already impressive defensive record this season, which now
tallies 14 shut-outs after denying Tottenham. Tomkins believes that the
hosts could have won by a greater margin, but was pleased to attain another
clean sheet. "It could have been five or six, their keeper played really
well. At the other end it's nice to keep a clean sheet which makes 14 this
year, so that's a positive to come from this season. "When they went down to
ten men they took a striker off, so for us it's less work to do which is
always nice. You don't mind that, but all in all we defended well as a
team."
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New pre-season friendly confirmed
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 6th May 2014
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United will face League Two side Stevenage FC on Saturday, 12th
July. The Hammers, who have already confirmed details of trips to Germany
and New Zealand this summer will be facing the Boro at The Lamex Stadium in
what is currently their first fixture of pre-season. Tickets for the match
are priced at £15 for adults, £12 concessions, £10 for under 18s and a fiver
for those under 12 and may be purchased from www.borotickets.co.uk.
Stevenage, who were relegated from League One this season having finished
bottom of the table have never previously met West Ham United in a
competitive fixture.
2014 Pre-Season: Confirmed Fixture List (First Team)
12th July: Stevenage FC (a)
23rd July: Wellington Phoenix (a)
26th July: Sydney FC (n)
2nd August: Schalke 04 Cup (n)
3rd August: Schalke 04 Cup (n)
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West Ham eye Benfica's Rodrigo Lima
By Omar HamoudaPosted on May 6, 2014
Sqwaka.com
West Ham are reportedly planning a move for Benfica attacking duo Oscar
Cardozo and Rodrigo Lima, as Sam Allardyce looks to bolster his misfiring
front-line in the summer transfer window.
West Ham are mid-table, but there have been several questions asked of
Allardyce's approach this season. The Hammers won on the weekend against
Tottenham, but the former Bolton boss is already planning reinforcements.
Allardyce has struggled to get Andy Carroll firing on all cylinders since he
since on a permanent deal at the club, with the former Liverpool man
struggling with several injuries throughout his time at the club. Carlton
Cole has struggled to deliver consistently, Marco Borriello is expected to
return to Roma at the end of his loan spell and Modibo Maiga is currently at
QPR, leaving Alladyce short of options up-front.
Allardyce is ready to launch an audacious move for both Oscar Cardozo and
Rodrigo Lima, with talkSPORT suggesting the club had scouts in attendance
for Benfica's game against Vitoria de Setubal on Sunday night.
Cardozo is a fans favourite at Benfica and the 30-year-old is rated one of
the best forwards in Portugal, scoring 68 goals in 116 games since his move
to the Lisbon in 2007. Cardozo's strike partner, Brazilian hit-man Rodrigo
Lima, has already scored 14 goals in 29 games and is also on Allardyce's
shortlist for the summer transfer window. Both strikers have propelled
Benfica to their second successive Europa League final which is in a few
weeks.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham Line Up Ambitious Double Swoop For Benfica Attacking Pair
by Steven Green May 6th, 2014
caughtoffside.com
Hammers keen on bolstering front line with exciting Portuguese champions.
West Ham United are hoping to bring Benfica strikers Oscar Cardozo and
Rodrigo in a shocking swoop this summer as they look to increase their
firepower ahead of the new season, according to talkSPORT. Hammers boss Sam
Allardyce has made no secret about his desire to add more attacking options
to his side after being accused on several occasions of being goal shy.
Club-record signing Andy Carroll missed the first half of the season with a
heel injury and Allardyce was forced to play some games without a striker.
However, with the side securing their Premier League status for another
year, Allardyce has made the Benfica pair his prime transfer targets after
sending club scouts to see them in action against Vitoria Setubal this
weekend. Paraguay international Cardozo, 30, is rated one of the best
forwards in Portugal and has scored 68 goals in 116 games since his move to
the Lisbon giants back in 2007. Rodrigo, who has already scored 14 goals in
29 games this season, has been on the radar of several clubs this summer
after an impressive season of his own.
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Karren Brady doesn't do rest and relaxation
Published on the 06 May 2014
YorkShireEveningPosdt
She is one of the UK's hardest working women BUT love for the job and
precious weekends with her family are all Karren Brady NEEDS
Karren Brady's to-do list must be epic. In fact, it's probably been epic
since the late Eighties, when the ambitious teenager kicked off her career
at Saatchi & Saatchi, rapidly moving onwards and upwards before becoming
managing director of Birmingham City Football Club in 1993, at the tender
age of 23.
Most people that age are still figuring things out. Brady however was on a
fast-track to making history; under her, Birmingham City FC began recording
profits for the first time ever and when she floated the club on the stock
market a few years later, she became the youngest ever managing director of
a UK PLC.
Since then, her fingers have been in many pies - multimillion pound
businesses (the company she sold in 2009 was valued at over £82million),
writing (she's published four books and writes columns for The Sun and Woman
& Home), TV work (most famously as one of Alan Sugar's sidekicks on The
Apprentice), and she took over as vice-chairman of West Ham United FC in
2010.
One of the most important deals she's negotiating these days though, is a
deal many up and down the country will relate to - parenting a teenage
daughter.
"Any parent of a teenage daughter will tell you there are some difficult
times," she says, laughing.
"I still look at my daughter and see her as six," she adds of her
18-year-old. "She sees herself as an independent, feisty woman who can do
what she wants. It's getting that balance between adult and child, it's
really difficult."
It's difficult to imagine Brady, 45, as anything but mega bright, but she's
convinced that her achievements are more about hard work, good attitude and
good fortune.
"When I left school at 18, all I really had were my core values," by which
she means, "things like determination, enthusiasm, the ability to work hard,
the ability to mix".
Her immense drive is put down to a childhood spent at boarding school, where
"nothing's your own".
"Someone tells you when to get up, when to go to bed, when to eat, what to
eat; it can be very oppressive. When I was younger, the only ambition I had
was to be independent, so that I would be deciding what I ate, when I took a
bath..."
Of course, she's put a lot of hours in over the years; still does. She stays
in London four nights a week and will work long hours, often "into the
night", so that she can be at home - in the village of Knowle near
Birmingham - on Friday, Saturdays and Sundays.
If she's not at the football, these weekends are "all about spending time
with the family, relaxing, cooking - I love to cook".
She famously returned to work just two days after having her daughter, but
there isn't a hint of guilt or side-stepping when she admits that she never
switches her phone off ("Never - I mean literally never") and answering
emails at 2am is normal for her.
Neither is there any hint of exhaustion; in fact she sounds calm, grounded
and very happy.
"Well I don't have to take calls I don't want to take," she reasons. "I
think when you run a business and employ 800 people you have to be
accessible, that's just the way it is."
She insists that she's never felt a need to sacrifice elements of motherhood
or her career in order to make things work - it's just a question of making
judgement calls. "Sometimes what's happening at work is more important, and
sometimes what's happening at home is more important; you have to be your
own judge of your balance."
So does she balance out all that hard work with relaxation regimes? Regular
spa visits, perhaps?
"I can't stand stuff like that!" she responds.
In fact, her only "indulgence" is having her hair dyed. "I used to do it
myself, because I'm a fidget and it takes so long [in the salon]," she says.
"I don't work out either; naughty, but I don't. I don't have time and I
absolutely hate it."
She also enjoys a glass of wine (she's refraining at the moment because
she's "on a diet"), but the regular medicals she has for her TV work keep
things in check.
That's pretty much the extent of Brady's relaxation or wellbeing regime.
But, while she may be a workaholic, she certainly isn't a blinkered one,
blindly ignoring crazy stress levels, for instance, as she forges on.
In 2006, a routine MRI scan revealed a potentially fatal aneurysm in Brady's
brain and she underwent urgent neurosurgery to prevent it rupturing. She was
36 and, yes, it did make her reassess - though it simply reaffirmed how much
she loves her life and her work.
"It made he realise that life's short. All the things you put off doing
because you think you can do them another time, there may not be another
time," she says. "And it helped put things into perspective, you know,
what's important, what isn't important."
At the time, it didn't make her overly anxious about her health, though now
she's getting older she finds herself thinking more and more about how "very
fragile" health is.
She is also a judge of the Nectar Business Small Business Awards.
"When you set up a business as I did, you're the managing director, the
marketing director, you answer the phone, make the tea, clean the office...
You're busy promoting your business and you realise that there's not that
many people behind you."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Man City tracking nine-year-old West Ham prodigy Omari Forson
POSTED BY ROB PARKER - MAY 6, 2014 - ALL NEWS, MANCHESTER CITY, TRANSFER
NEWS AND GOSSIP, WEST HAM
OffThePost
Manchester City's summer transfer activity is set to include a swoop for a
nine-year-old. West Ham kid Omari Forson has caught the eye of scouts from
the Etihad and City will attempt to lure the youngster away from Upton Park.
The Hammers have very high hopes for Forson, who has been with them since
the age of five. He is a skilful left-footed forward who, ridiculously given
he doesn't turn 10 until July, has been compared to Zlatan Ibrahimovic. His
performances for the club's under-10 and under-11 sides have attracted
interest from Manuel Pellegrini's scouting team. The Daily Mail reports that
City will sell their new £100m training complex, including state-of-the-art
youth training facilities, to Forson's family in the hope of convincing them
to make the switch. City's youth football infrastructure has proved very
enticing, with Manchester United striker Robin Van Persie and coach Phil
Neville both choosing to send their children to train there.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Nocerino confirms West Ham departure
By talkSPORT (@talkSPORT) | Tuesday, May 6, 2014
Talksport
Antonio Nocerino has confirmed he will definitely be leaving West Ham at the
end of the season to return to AC Milan following his loan spell at Upton
Park.
Nocerino, 29, has started only two games for the club and has been forced to
settle for a place on the substitutes' bench for the majority of the time
during his brief stint in the Premier League. The Italy international joined
the club back in January and was hoping to show Sam Allardyce that he could
earn a permanent move to England. But following the club's 2-0 win over
Tottenham on Saturday, which secured their Premier League status for another
season, Nocerino confirmed on his Instagram account that he will be leaving
east London for good. Nocerino said: "It's back to Italy and thank you
Hammers for the experience."
It remains to be seen if Nocerino will stay at the San Siro as he failed to
secure a first-team place before he joined the Hammers and could leave Milan
during the summer.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ravel wins Goal of the Season and promises 'I'll be back'
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 6th May 2014
By: Staff Writer
Ravel Morrison has told fans that he is looking forward to returning to West
Ham United next season. The 21-year-old is currently on loan at Championship
club Queens Park Rangers, for whom he will feature in the play-offs that
commence this weekend. But just minutes after he was confirmed as the winner
of West Ham United's Goal of the Season award at tonight's black tie bash at
the Grosvenor House Hotel, Morrison revealed that he is looking forward to
returning to the Boleyn Ground. "Very happy to win Goal of the Season for
West Ham," he tweeted. "Thanks for everyone that voted for the goal. Be back
next season to score more."
Only last week Morrison spoke out tonight to dismiss a tabloid newspaper's
claim that he would only consider a return to West Ham if Sam Allardyce was
no longer the manager. "Papers talk a lot of rubbish," he wrote on his
Twitter timeline. "I don't care what manager I play under, all I want to do
is play football," he added - before signing off with a West Ham hashtag.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Mark Noble is named Hammer of the Year
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 6th May 2014
By: Staff Writer
Midfielder Mark Noble has won the Hammer of the Year award for the second
time in three years. The home-grown Hammer took the award for the second
time at a packed Grosvenor House hotel this evening to the approval of all
present. 26-year-old Noble was just one of a string of winners on a busy
night in Mayfair at which the entire first team - minus Ravel Morrison, who
is preparing for QPR's impending play-off semi final against Wigan Athletic
- were present.
Noble was also named Player's Player of the Year, whilst goalkeeper Adrian
took three awards home with him. You may see the results of all the
categories below.
Hammer of the Year
Mark Noble
Players' Player of the Year
Mark Noble
Goal of the Season
Ravel Morrison v Tottenham, 6th October 2013
Best Team Performance
v Tottenham, 6th October 2013
Best Individual Performance
Adrian v Chelsea, 29th January 2014
Best Signing
Adrian
Save of the Season
Adrian v Chelsea, 29th January 2014
Top Goalscorer
Kevin Nolan (7)
Dylan Tombides Award (formerly Academy Player of the Year)
Josh Cullen
Young Hammer of the Year
Sam Howes
Lifetime Achievement Award
Sir Trevor Brooking
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Wednesday, May 7
Tuesday, May 6
Daily WHUFC News - 6th May 2014
Manager on Monday
WHUFC.com
Sam Allardyce will be moving quickly to implement his plan to improve his
West Ham United side
04.05.2014
Sam Allardyce will waste no time as he starts work on strengthening his West
Ham United squad for the 2014/15 season. The West Ham United manager oversaw
a record-breaking third straight victory against Tottenham Hotspur at the
Boleyn Ground on Saturday - a result which guarantees Premier League
football for the Hammers for a third consecutive season. With contract talks
and player negotiations put on hold until the table showed mathematical
safety, Big Sam will now have the freedom to act on weeks of
behind-the-scenes planning. "I don't want to go through next season with the
same phases and challenges as we had this season," Big Sam explained. "We
need a bigger and better squad; there is no doubt about that. As much good
as the players have done since I have been here - and I'm not criticising
any of them whatsoever as they've given all that they've got - our job is
always to improve the squad as you can't stand still in this league. "We've
got to go out and find better players and hopefully that gives us more
stability and better results sequence so we can move forward slowly but
surely."
Big Sam have overseen something of a revolution of the West Ham United
defence this season, with Saturday's 2-0 win providing West Ham's 14th clean
sheet of the league season. Therefore, it is attacking and flair players
that will fill out the top slots on the manager's summer shopping list for
the summer. "Talented players are always important at this level of
football. Players that can handle the ball and more importantly deliver in
the final third are vital. Our 14 clean sheets this season is the best I've
ever had and that was a massive goal that we've achieved. "If we can carry
that through to next season and add a bit more flair and finishing power
then we should be looking to finish in the top ten or better. We've got to
entertain the fans and play the right kind of football. "We should have
converted a lot more than we did on Saturday but I'm not complaining about a
2-0 win! We were hitting the target, though, and we were making their
goalkeeper make very, very good saves."
Reflecting further on the victory against Spurs, the manager is all too
aware that a hat-trick of victories in a single season against the
neighbours from north London has never been achieved before. He now wants
his side to ensure they carry on the intensity and fight they displayed when
they travel to Manchester City for the season's conclusion next Sunday.
"Everyone has told me how important Saturday's result was. It was hugely
important to us and the fans. To make it three wins on the trot and play as
well as we did against our great rivals sent everyone home happy. "We can
now look forward to a really good performance at Manchester City, but at the
same time knowing that when we get back next season we will be in the
Barclays Premier League and we'll try to do better than we did this."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Diame lauds fan support
WHUFC.com
Mo Diame felt the support of the home fans helped inspire the Hammers to a
win against Spurs
05.05.2014
Mohamed Diame dedicated West Ham United's 2-0 victory against Tottenham
Hotspur on Saturday to the Hammers' fans. The midfielder was impressed with
the vociferous backing from the stands as goals from Stewart Downing and
Andy Carroll fired the hosts to a third win of the season against their
London rivals.
Diame appreciated the Boleyn Ground crowd for creating an atmosphere in
which he believed gave the team added motivation. "It was very, very
important," he exclaimed. "We know every time that we play against Tottenham
that the fans are very, very focused on this game and we did it for them. "I
think they deserve it. They're always behind the team from the start to the
end of the season, so they deserve it."
"Always when you have the fans behind you like this you feel like you have
more power on the pitch in the big games and they give you something more to
do it. "As I told you before, they deserve it and we did it for them."
Three points against Spurs also ensured the Club are mathematically safe
from the threat of relegation from the Barclays Premier League, with the win
taking the team to the 40-point mark. The Hammers produced a dominant
performance from first whistle to last on Saturday and the Senegalese
international feels the victory can help the Club move forward into next
season. "It was important to win this game for the fans and to finish the
season well it was important for us. Well done to everybody and we hope next
season is going to better than last season."
A red card for Younes Kaboul when the deadlock was still to be broken,
helped the home side on their way against Tim Sherwood's side and for Diame
the correct decision was made. "Stewart just ran right in front of Younes
Kaboul and he was tripped. "The red card was shown and after that we knew we
were going to have the ball all the time so we just needed to stay focused
at the back and avoid mistakes. "The team was very good on Saturday,
everybody played well."
Sam Allardyce now turns his attention to the Club's final game of the season
against Manchester City on Sunday, with Diame eyeing a professional
performance against opponents who will be hoping to lift the title with
victory against the Hammers. "This game is very important for Manchester
City, but also for us because we're professionals and we want to go there
and win the game."
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U18s duo target overall title
WHUFC.com
Steve Potts and Mark Phillips would love West Ham United to lift the
Barclays U18 Premier League trophy
05.05.2014
Steve Potts and assistant Mark Phillips hailed West Ham United's youngsters
after they won through to the Barclays U18 Premier League Play-Offs. The
Hammers ensured runners-up spot in the Southern Division with a 1-1 home
draw with Arsenal on Saturday, setting up a semi-final clash at Northern
Division winners Manchester City later this week. Having secured a top-two
finish after Kieran Bywater's early penalty was cancelled out by Ainsley
Maitland-Niles' second-half equaliser, Potts and Phillips are now targeting
a memorable end to the 2013/14 campaign. "I thought it was a good result for
us, but it was a tough test at times," said U18s boss Potts. "Both teams
played really well but I thought that, in the first half, we were the much
better team. "We had several chances to go further ahead and perhaps make
the second half more comfortable for us, but we only led by 1-0 at
half-time. That gave Arsenal an incentive in the second half and they came
out very strong, so we had to dig deep and hold on. "In the second half, our
players were getting tired because Arsenal were getting a lot of the ball
and making us work hard."
Assistant manager Phillips added: "It was a game of two halves but I think
the Arsenal coaching staff got stuck into the players at half-time. They
brought an England full-back on that made a difference and they did overrun
us in the second half. "Saying that, goals change games and in the second
half, Jaanai Gordon had a great chance when he went through one on one but
their keeper made a fantastic save, which then allowed Arsenal to go up the
other end and make it 1-1. It's those little things that can make the
difference at the end of the day."
Prior to kick-off, the Hammers knew that they needed a single point to
confirm their place in the Play-Offs and Bywater's sixth-minute spot-kick
duly secured it.
"We said before the game that if we got through this game against Arsenal
with a result then we would be there against Manchester City, which will be
a tough test for the lads," confirmed Potts. "That's what we want from the
boys, though. We want them to be tested and come through games getting
results. Phillips added: "It's slightly unfair on Arsenal to call them a
dress rehearsal but this was a hard test for us. Manchester City will be
another tough game and, if we play well enough and make the final, it will
be a third tough match that we will have to be up for."
The management duo took reflected on the youth team's progression throughout
the season, believing that their squad deserves a chance at a glorious end
to the season. Potts said: "I thought that at the start of the season that
we were playing some great football without getting the results to match.
Then, a few things changed with the boys and they got more ruthless in front
of goal and we started getting the results we deserved. "We were scoring
goals, but also defending solidly which gave us a good ground to work on,
which is why I think we ended up in the top two. "This season, all of the
players have progressed as players in their own ways. Quite a few have
stepped up to the Development Squad which is the main goal that we are
looking for, with Reece [Burke] even getting a crack at the first team
[against Nottingham Forest]. That's the whole purpose of why we are here and
that's exactly what we are looking for."
Phillips continued: "We had two good runs this season, one near the first
half of the season and then we lost at Southampton and started another good
run of results. "I know that plenty of other managers and coaches like to
talk about the team spirit at their club but for us, we really have got a
great group of players that will all work hard for each other. "It's not all
about winning matches and tournaments because we are looking for the players
to be pushing on to the next level. For example, we have had quite a number
of players featuring for the Development Squad this season which will help
them as they progress naturally to that level over the next few years."
Having been knocked out of the FA Youth Cup at the third-round stage at
Accrington Stanley, the Hammers return to the North West with a second
chance at lifting a piece of silverware this term. Potts added: "I said to
the boys after the Arsenal game that I fully believe that they deserve a
crack at a big game. The FA Youth Cup was a total disappointment for
everyone because it took away that chance of a big game to end the season,
although from what they have shown this season, this could be a second
chance at a big game. "We all come in every day with the sole aim of
improving these boys as footballers. Individually and as a team, I think the
lads have improved massively. Obviously we can't stop there because they are
still quite far away from where they want to be so we need to just keep
continuing the hard work. "It's not just about the coaching staff, though,
as we have a number of people in different roles who all contribute to the
job every day. We have our own sports scientist, physiotherapists, drivers
and kit man who have all been excellent this season."
West Ham's progress this season at U18 level is testament to the hard work
which has gone on behind the scenes at Rush Green and Little Heath, where
the Club's promising schoolboys and scholars are given every opportunity to
better themselves as both players and people. Phillips added: "We have set
up a good learning environment for the boys and we see every day that the
players are buying into what we want to do for their careers. At the end of
the day, it's not benefiting Steve and I because we are here only to help
them progress as footballers."
Should West Ham win at Manchester City, they will face either Southern
champions Tottenham Hotspur or Northern runners-up Everton in the final.
Details of where and when the semi-final at Manchester City will be played
will be announced shortly.
U18s: Howes, Knoyle, Burke, Onariase, Mavila, Pask, Nasha (Cullen), Makasi,
Bywater, J.Brown (Amoo), Parfitt-Williams (Gordon)
Subs not used: T.Brown, Martins, Pike
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Allegri offered two-year deal to replace Allardyce?
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 5th May 2014
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United have offered former AC Milan manager Massimiliano Allegri a
two-year contract according to Italian media. Simone Bernabei (TMW) reports
this evening that the 46-year-old Italian, who was fired by the former
Italian giants in January after three years at the club has been approached
with view to replacing Sam Allardyce at the end of the current season. It is
claimed that Allegri has been offered a two-year deal by West Ham, who are
also said to have declared their intention to sign Sunderland winger
Emanuele Giaccherini and Alessandro Matri, Milan's 29-year-old striker who
is currently on loan at Fiorentina. Only last week Allegri was still being
linked with West Ham's London rivals Tottenham, who are seeking a
replacement for Tim Sherwood - much to the disappointment of thousands of
Hammers fans who registered their approval of the beleagured Spurs manager
on Saturday during United's 2-0 win.
That deal appears to have cooled, although it has been suggested that the
former midfielder may simply be using West Ham as a bargaining chip to push
through a move to White Hart Lane.
West Ham's plans to gazump Spurs first came to light last Thursday, when
RAI's Alfredo Pedulla reported that the Italian had opened talks with the
club.
Despite news of West Ham's interest in Allegri it was business as usual for
Sam Allardyce today, who is busy preparing his (by now mathematically safe)
team for the final game of the season at Manchester City this weekend. "We
can now look forward to a really good performance at Manchester City," he
said, "but at the same time knowing that next season we will be in the
Premier League - and we'll try to do better than we did this."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Top ten next season, says Big Sam
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 5th May 2014
By: Staff Writer
Sam Allardyce say that he intends to add more "flair" and "finishing power"
to his squad this summer following Saturday's 2-0 win over Tottenham. That
win guaranteed West Ham Premier League football for another season with the
three points gained against our hapless rivals from N17 taking United's
total for the season to an unassailable 40 points. For Allardyce and the
club's owners, the summer recruitment programme is set to begin straight
away now that safety has been assured. And the manager hinted this morning
in his weekly email to supporters that his main priority will be introducing
players capable of making an impact in the opposition half. "Now we are
mathematically safe, we've got to go out and find better players to improve
the squad," he said in his weekly missive. "As much good as the players
have done since I have been here - and I'm not criticising any of them
whatsoever as they've given all that they've got - our job is always to
improve the squad as you can't stand still in this league. "Players that can
handle the ball and more importantly deliver in the final third are vital.
Our 14 clean sheets this season is the best I've ever had and that was a
massive goal that we've achieved. "If we can add a bit more flair and
finishing power then we should be looking to finish in the top ten or better
next season. We've got to entertain the fans and play the right kind of
football."
Allardyce - who last week acknowledged that he "expected to do better this
season" has come under fire from sections of the fan base in recent months
due to his penchant for direct football. However he appears to retain the
backing of the club's owners David Gold and David Sullivan, for whom a third
successive win over Tottenham has gone some way to quelling any intentions
of seeking an immediate replacement.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
CLYDE BEST'S "BANANA INCIDENT": ARE KARREN BRADY'S SOURCES RIGHT?
By S J Chandos 5 May 2014 at 10:17
West Ham Till I Die
An interesting reference has been brought to my attention in Karren Brady's
most recent weekly column in The Sun. In it, she refers to the Dani Alves
banana throwing incident and states that veteran Hammers fans have told her
that former striker, Clyde Best (1969-75), was a victim of similiar
behaviour at Upton Park. Now, I remember that period well, including the
whole of Best's career at the club. But for the life of me, I do not recall
bananas being thrown at him and certainly not at Upton Park.
Thinking back, it just does not strike me as the type of behaviour that
football crowds of that era would engage in. My recollection is that Clyde
Best was viewed with affection at Upton Park and, generally, had a positive
relationship with the crowd. I also remember other black Hammers such as
John Charles, Clive Charles and Ade Coker all making first team appearances
in that period. In fact, it was Canning Town born and bred, John Charles
(Clive's elder brother), who was the trailblazer for black football talent
at West Ham in the contemporary era. He made his first team debut in May
1963 Vs Blackburn Rovers and was a regular up until 1971. In managerial
terms, it was Ron Greenwood who was a major pioneer in introducing black
talent in this country. In fact, in April 1972, Greenwood was the first
manager to select three black players for a league match. Clive Charles, Ade
Coker and Clyde Best all appeared in a 2-0 victory over Spurs. And of
course, it should be added that, Ron Greenwood later followed that up, as
the national Manager, by selecting Viv Anderson as the first black player
ever to appear for England. For all of the recognition of Greenwood as a
great coach and innovative thinker on the game, he never seems to get the
credit that he deserves in that one respect.
I do, however, remember disgraceful banana throwing scenes in a match at
Upton Park in the early 1980s, which was aimed at black players in the
opposing WBA team (i.e. Regis, Moses, Cunningham). While George Parris, in a
piece in yesterday's Independent, reminds us that in the 1980s he was also
subjected to banana throwing and other abuse, by opposition fans. In fact,
there was an particular incident at Upton Park when George responded in
exactly the same way as Alves (only 30 years earlier) to opposition fans
throwing bananas at him and, by doing so, showed both disdain for racism and
rallied the Hammers crowd in support of him. Unfortunately, in a far less
'connected' decade, George's inspired response did not go global, but it did
(in a local way) help shape positive attitudes at Upton Park, isolate the
racists and encourage young players, like Matthew Rush, who were there to
witness it.
So, am I right in thinking that Ms Brady's informants are mistaken when they
told her that Clyde Best was on the end of such treatment? If they are, then
it would be nice if that mistake could be acknowledged. In doing so, there
are undoubtedly other incidents/episodes in the past that we do need to
confront (i.e. the aforementioned treatment of the WBA players); as well as
recognising the positive contributions that West Ham Utd have made to
promoting racial equality in the English game. Like, for instance, the fact
that the first ever black player to appear for the club was Fred Corbett in
1899-1902! Plus the pioneering innovation of Ron Greenwood in introducing
black football talent in the 1960s & 1970s and other subsequent positive
progress made by the club.
Naturally, in turn, if my recollection is wrong on Clyde Best, I will freely
acknowledge that fact here!
SJ. Chandos.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Cardiff and Fulham have been relegated because of shocking decision making
by club owners
May 05, 2014 08:30
OPINION BY MARKLAWRENSON
Mark Lawrenson claims that Crystal Palace and West Ham's strengths have been
Fulham and Cardiff's weaknesses
Whatever happens between Crystal Palace and Liverpool tonight, the Eagles
have struck a blow for common sense this season. With the appointment of
Tony Pulis, a man experienced in fighting relegation in the English top
division, Palace owner Steve Parish has brought in the right man for the
job. As a result, Palace sit mid-table above several clubs that would
consider themselves to be far bigger and are definitely better resourced.
Then you have West Ham. Davids Gold and Sullivan held their nerve when the
calls came to sack Sam Allardyce. Why? Because they knew the best man to get
them out of trouble was Sam Allaryce. Where are they now? On 40 points and
preparing for another Premier League season. So many clubs, however, have
panicked. They've been seduced by the lure or foreign coaches or by the idea
that they know more than the men in charge. That is why Cardiff and Fulham
have been relegated. Both those clubs – and the likes of West Brom who have
also been in relegation trouble – have one thing in common: The
decision-making at the top this season has been shocking. If you throw in
Norwich, you've got four clubs with nine managers between them this season.
West Brom have sacked Steve Clarke, sold their best striker and put a
foreign coach with no experience of the Premier League in charge.
Little wonder that their Premier League fate has gone to the last two weeks.
Cardiff would have stayed up with Malky Mackay in charge. Absolutely. But
their owner, Vincent Tan, allowed something that could easily have been
dealt with in-house to spiral out of control. In has come Ole Gunnar
Solskjaer. He did well in Norway as a manager but had no experience in the
bearpit that is the drop zone in the toughest league in the world. Fulham
were even worse. Three managers, the middle one a rookie who brings in an
£11million striker from Greece who plays less than a handful of games. The
third coach admittedly has a decent CV but, again, has no experience of
working in English football. Just remarkable. I just cannot understand why
the decision makers at these clubs have been willing to gamble in that way.
In what other industry would you give control of your business to somebody
with no direct qualifications to run it? It is absolute madness. For which
Fulham and Cardiff are paying the price.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
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WHUFC.com
Sam Allardyce will be moving quickly to implement his plan to improve his
West Ham United side
04.05.2014
Sam Allardyce will waste no time as he starts work on strengthening his West
Ham United squad for the 2014/15 season. The West Ham United manager oversaw
a record-breaking third straight victory against Tottenham Hotspur at the
Boleyn Ground on Saturday - a result which guarantees Premier League
football for the Hammers for a third consecutive season. With contract talks
and player negotiations put on hold until the table showed mathematical
safety, Big Sam will now have the freedom to act on weeks of
behind-the-scenes planning. "I don't want to go through next season with the
same phases and challenges as we had this season," Big Sam explained. "We
need a bigger and better squad; there is no doubt about that. As much good
as the players have done since I have been here - and I'm not criticising
any of them whatsoever as they've given all that they've got - our job is
always to improve the squad as you can't stand still in this league. "We've
got to go out and find better players and hopefully that gives us more
stability and better results sequence so we can move forward slowly but
surely."
Big Sam have overseen something of a revolution of the West Ham United
defence this season, with Saturday's 2-0 win providing West Ham's 14th clean
sheet of the league season. Therefore, it is attacking and flair players
that will fill out the top slots on the manager's summer shopping list for
the summer. "Talented players are always important at this level of
football. Players that can handle the ball and more importantly deliver in
the final third are vital. Our 14 clean sheets this season is the best I've
ever had and that was a massive goal that we've achieved. "If we can carry
that through to next season and add a bit more flair and finishing power
then we should be looking to finish in the top ten or better. We've got to
entertain the fans and play the right kind of football. "We should have
converted a lot more than we did on Saturday but I'm not complaining about a
2-0 win! We were hitting the target, though, and we were making their
goalkeeper make very, very good saves."
Reflecting further on the victory against Spurs, the manager is all too
aware that a hat-trick of victories in a single season against the
neighbours from north London has never been achieved before. He now wants
his side to ensure they carry on the intensity and fight they displayed when
they travel to Manchester City for the season's conclusion next Sunday.
"Everyone has told me how important Saturday's result was. It was hugely
important to us and the fans. To make it three wins on the trot and play as
well as we did against our great rivals sent everyone home happy. "We can
now look forward to a really good performance at Manchester City, but at the
same time knowing that when we get back next season we will be in the
Barclays Premier League and we'll try to do better than we did this."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Diame lauds fan support
WHUFC.com
Mo Diame felt the support of the home fans helped inspire the Hammers to a
win against Spurs
05.05.2014
Mohamed Diame dedicated West Ham United's 2-0 victory against Tottenham
Hotspur on Saturday to the Hammers' fans. The midfielder was impressed with
the vociferous backing from the stands as goals from Stewart Downing and
Andy Carroll fired the hosts to a third win of the season against their
London rivals.
Diame appreciated the Boleyn Ground crowd for creating an atmosphere in
which he believed gave the team added motivation. "It was very, very
important," he exclaimed. "We know every time that we play against Tottenham
that the fans are very, very focused on this game and we did it for them. "I
think they deserve it. They're always behind the team from the start to the
end of the season, so they deserve it."
"Always when you have the fans behind you like this you feel like you have
more power on the pitch in the big games and they give you something more to
do it. "As I told you before, they deserve it and we did it for them."
Three points against Spurs also ensured the Club are mathematically safe
from the threat of relegation from the Barclays Premier League, with the win
taking the team to the 40-point mark. The Hammers produced a dominant
performance from first whistle to last on Saturday and the Senegalese
international feels the victory can help the Club move forward into next
season. "It was important to win this game for the fans and to finish the
season well it was important for us. Well done to everybody and we hope next
season is going to better than last season."
A red card for Younes Kaboul when the deadlock was still to be broken,
helped the home side on their way against Tim Sherwood's side and for Diame
the correct decision was made. "Stewart just ran right in front of Younes
Kaboul and he was tripped. "The red card was shown and after that we knew we
were going to have the ball all the time so we just needed to stay focused
at the back and avoid mistakes. "The team was very good on Saturday,
everybody played well."
Sam Allardyce now turns his attention to the Club's final game of the season
against Manchester City on Sunday, with Diame eyeing a professional
performance against opponents who will be hoping to lift the title with
victory against the Hammers. "This game is very important for Manchester
City, but also for us because we're professionals and we want to go there
and win the game."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
U18s duo target overall title
WHUFC.com
Steve Potts and Mark Phillips would love West Ham United to lift the
Barclays U18 Premier League trophy
05.05.2014
Steve Potts and assistant Mark Phillips hailed West Ham United's youngsters
after they won through to the Barclays U18 Premier League Play-Offs. The
Hammers ensured runners-up spot in the Southern Division with a 1-1 home
draw with Arsenal on Saturday, setting up a semi-final clash at Northern
Division winners Manchester City later this week. Having secured a top-two
finish after Kieran Bywater's early penalty was cancelled out by Ainsley
Maitland-Niles' second-half equaliser, Potts and Phillips are now targeting
a memorable end to the 2013/14 campaign. "I thought it was a good result for
us, but it was a tough test at times," said U18s boss Potts. "Both teams
played really well but I thought that, in the first half, we were the much
better team. "We had several chances to go further ahead and perhaps make
the second half more comfortable for us, but we only led by 1-0 at
half-time. That gave Arsenal an incentive in the second half and they came
out very strong, so we had to dig deep and hold on. "In the second half, our
players were getting tired because Arsenal were getting a lot of the ball
and making us work hard."
Assistant manager Phillips added: "It was a game of two halves but I think
the Arsenal coaching staff got stuck into the players at half-time. They
brought an England full-back on that made a difference and they did overrun
us in the second half. "Saying that, goals change games and in the second
half, Jaanai Gordon had a great chance when he went through one on one but
their keeper made a fantastic save, which then allowed Arsenal to go up the
other end and make it 1-1. It's those little things that can make the
difference at the end of the day."
Prior to kick-off, the Hammers knew that they needed a single point to
confirm their place in the Play-Offs and Bywater's sixth-minute spot-kick
duly secured it.
"We said before the game that if we got through this game against Arsenal
with a result then we would be there against Manchester City, which will be
a tough test for the lads," confirmed Potts. "That's what we want from the
boys, though. We want them to be tested and come through games getting
results. Phillips added: "It's slightly unfair on Arsenal to call them a
dress rehearsal but this was a hard test for us. Manchester City will be
another tough game and, if we play well enough and make the final, it will
be a third tough match that we will have to be up for."
The management duo took reflected on the youth team's progression throughout
the season, believing that their squad deserves a chance at a glorious end
to the season. Potts said: "I thought that at the start of the season that
we were playing some great football without getting the results to match.
Then, a few things changed with the boys and they got more ruthless in front
of goal and we started getting the results we deserved. "We were scoring
goals, but also defending solidly which gave us a good ground to work on,
which is why I think we ended up in the top two. "This season, all of the
players have progressed as players in their own ways. Quite a few have
stepped up to the Development Squad which is the main goal that we are
looking for, with Reece [Burke] even getting a crack at the first team
[against Nottingham Forest]. That's the whole purpose of why we are here and
that's exactly what we are looking for."
Phillips continued: "We had two good runs this season, one near the first
half of the season and then we lost at Southampton and started another good
run of results. "I know that plenty of other managers and coaches like to
talk about the team spirit at their club but for us, we really have got a
great group of players that will all work hard for each other. "It's not all
about winning matches and tournaments because we are looking for the players
to be pushing on to the next level. For example, we have had quite a number
of players featuring for the Development Squad this season which will help
them as they progress naturally to that level over the next few years."
Having been knocked out of the FA Youth Cup at the third-round stage at
Accrington Stanley, the Hammers return to the North West with a second
chance at lifting a piece of silverware this term. Potts added: "I said to
the boys after the Arsenal game that I fully believe that they deserve a
crack at a big game. The FA Youth Cup was a total disappointment for
everyone because it took away that chance of a big game to end the season,
although from what they have shown this season, this could be a second
chance at a big game. "We all come in every day with the sole aim of
improving these boys as footballers. Individually and as a team, I think the
lads have improved massively. Obviously we can't stop there because they are
still quite far away from where they want to be so we need to just keep
continuing the hard work. "It's not just about the coaching staff, though,
as we have a number of people in different roles who all contribute to the
job every day. We have our own sports scientist, physiotherapists, drivers
and kit man who have all been excellent this season."
West Ham's progress this season at U18 level is testament to the hard work
which has gone on behind the scenes at Rush Green and Little Heath, where
the Club's promising schoolboys and scholars are given every opportunity to
better themselves as both players and people. Phillips added: "We have set
up a good learning environment for the boys and we see every day that the
players are buying into what we want to do for their careers. At the end of
the day, it's not benefiting Steve and I because we are here only to help
them progress as footballers."
Should West Ham win at Manchester City, they will face either Southern
champions Tottenham Hotspur or Northern runners-up Everton in the final.
Details of where and when the semi-final at Manchester City will be played
will be announced shortly.
U18s: Howes, Knoyle, Burke, Onariase, Mavila, Pask, Nasha (Cullen), Makasi,
Bywater, J.Brown (Amoo), Parfitt-Williams (Gordon)
Subs not used: T.Brown, Martins, Pike
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Allegri offered two-year deal to replace Allardyce?
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 5th May 2014
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United have offered former AC Milan manager Massimiliano Allegri a
two-year contract according to Italian media. Simone Bernabei (TMW) reports
this evening that the 46-year-old Italian, who was fired by the former
Italian giants in January after three years at the club has been approached
with view to replacing Sam Allardyce at the end of the current season. It is
claimed that Allegri has been offered a two-year deal by West Ham, who are
also said to have declared their intention to sign Sunderland winger
Emanuele Giaccherini and Alessandro Matri, Milan's 29-year-old striker who
is currently on loan at Fiorentina. Only last week Allegri was still being
linked with West Ham's London rivals Tottenham, who are seeking a
replacement for Tim Sherwood - much to the disappointment of thousands of
Hammers fans who registered their approval of the beleagured Spurs manager
on Saturday during United's 2-0 win.
That deal appears to have cooled, although it has been suggested that the
former midfielder may simply be using West Ham as a bargaining chip to push
through a move to White Hart Lane.
West Ham's plans to gazump Spurs first came to light last Thursday, when
RAI's Alfredo Pedulla reported that the Italian had opened talks with the
club.
Despite news of West Ham's interest in Allegri it was business as usual for
Sam Allardyce today, who is busy preparing his (by now mathematically safe)
team for the final game of the season at Manchester City this weekend. "We
can now look forward to a really good performance at Manchester City," he
said, "but at the same time knowing that next season we will be in the
Premier League - and we'll try to do better than we did this."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Top ten next season, says Big Sam
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 5th May 2014
By: Staff Writer
Sam Allardyce say that he intends to add more "flair" and "finishing power"
to his squad this summer following Saturday's 2-0 win over Tottenham. That
win guaranteed West Ham Premier League football for another season with the
three points gained against our hapless rivals from N17 taking United's
total for the season to an unassailable 40 points. For Allardyce and the
club's owners, the summer recruitment programme is set to begin straight
away now that safety has been assured. And the manager hinted this morning
in his weekly email to supporters that his main priority will be introducing
players capable of making an impact in the opposition half. "Now we are
mathematically safe, we've got to go out and find better players to improve
the squad," he said in his weekly missive. "As much good as the players
have done since I have been here - and I'm not criticising any of them
whatsoever as they've given all that they've got - our job is always to
improve the squad as you can't stand still in this league. "Players that can
handle the ball and more importantly deliver in the final third are vital.
Our 14 clean sheets this season is the best I've ever had and that was a
massive goal that we've achieved. "If we can add a bit more flair and
finishing power then we should be looking to finish in the top ten or better
next season. We've got to entertain the fans and play the right kind of
football."
Allardyce - who last week acknowledged that he "expected to do better this
season" has come under fire from sections of the fan base in recent months
due to his penchant for direct football. However he appears to retain the
backing of the club's owners David Gold and David Sullivan, for whom a third
successive win over Tottenham has gone some way to quelling any intentions
of seeking an immediate replacement.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
CLYDE BEST'S "BANANA INCIDENT": ARE KARREN BRADY'S SOURCES RIGHT?
By S J Chandos 5 May 2014 at 10:17
West Ham Till I Die
An interesting reference has been brought to my attention in Karren Brady's
most recent weekly column in The Sun. In it, she refers to the Dani Alves
banana throwing incident and states that veteran Hammers fans have told her
that former striker, Clyde Best (1969-75), was a victim of similiar
behaviour at Upton Park. Now, I remember that period well, including the
whole of Best's career at the club. But for the life of me, I do not recall
bananas being thrown at him and certainly not at Upton Park.
Thinking back, it just does not strike me as the type of behaviour that
football crowds of that era would engage in. My recollection is that Clyde
Best was viewed with affection at Upton Park and, generally, had a positive
relationship with the crowd. I also remember other black Hammers such as
John Charles, Clive Charles and Ade Coker all making first team appearances
in that period. In fact, it was Canning Town born and bred, John Charles
(Clive's elder brother), who was the trailblazer for black football talent
at West Ham in the contemporary era. He made his first team debut in May
1963 Vs Blackburn Rovers and was a regular up until 1971. In managerial
terms, it was Ron Greenwood who was a major pioneer in introducing black
talent in this country. In fact, in April 1972, Greenwood was the first
manager to select three black players for a league match. Clive Charles, Ade
Coker and Clyde Best all appeared in a 2-0 victory over Spurs. And of
course, it should be added that, Ron Greenwood later followed that up, as
the national Manager, by selecting Viv Anderson as the first black player
ever to appear for England. For all of the recognition of Greenwood as a
great coach and innovative thinker on the game, he never seems to get the
credit that he deserves in that one respect.
I do, however, remember disgraceful banana throwing scenes in a match at
Upton Park in the early 1980s, which was aimed at black players in the
opposing WBA team (i.e. Regis, Moses, Cunningham). While George Parris, in a
piece in yesterday's Independent, reminds us that in the 1980s he was also
subjected to banana throwing and other abuse, by opposition fans. In fact,
there was an particular incident at Upton Park when George responded in
exactly the same way as Alves (only 30 years earlier) to opposition fans
throwing bananas at him and, by doing so, showed both disdain for racism and
rallied the Hammers crowd in support of him. Unfortunately, in a far less
'connected' decade, George's inspired response did not go global, but it did
(in a local way) help shape positive attitudes at Upton Park, isolate the
racists and encourage young players, like Matthew Rush, who were there to
witness it.
So, am I right in thinking that Ms Brady's informants are mistaken when they
told her that Clyde Best was on the end of such treatment? If they are, then
it would be nice if that mistake could be acknowledged. In doing so, there
are undoubtedly other incidents/episodes in the past that we do need to
confront (i.e. the aforementioned treatment of the WBA players); as well as
recognising the positive contributions that West Ham Utd have made to
promoting racial equality in the English game. Like, for instance, the fact
that the first ever black player to appear for the club was Fred Corbett in
1899-1902! Plus the pioneering innovation of Ron Greenwood in introducing
black football talent in the 1960s & 1970s and other subsequent positive
progress made by the club.
Naturally, in turn, if my recollection is wrong on Clyde Best, I will freely
acknowledge that fact here!
SJ. Chandos.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Cardiff and Fulham have been relegated because of shocking decision making
by club owners
May 05, 2014 08:30
OPINION BY MARKLAWRENSON
Mark Lawrenson claims that Crystal Palace and West Ham's strengths have been
Fulham and Cardiff's weaknesses
Whatever happens between Crystal Palace and Liverpool tonight, the Eagles
have struck a blow for common sense this season. With the appointment of
Tony Pulis, a man experienced in fighting relegation in the English top
division, Palace owner Steve Parish has brought in the right man for the
job. As a result, Palace sit mid-table above several clubs that would
consider themselves to be far bigger and are definitely better resourced.
Then you have West Ham. Davids Gold and Sullivan held their nerve when the
calls came to sack Sam Allardyce. Why? Because they knew the best man to get
them out of trouble was Sam Allaryce. Where are they now? On 40 points and
preparing for another Premier League season. So many clubs, however, have
panicked. They've been seduced by the lure or foreign coaches or by the idea
that they know more than the men in charge. That is why Cardiff and Fulham
have been relegated. Both those clubs – and the likes of West Brom who have
also been in relegation trouble – have one thing in common: The
decision-making at the top this season has been shocking. If you throw in
Norwich, you've got four clubs with nine managers between them this season.
West Brom have sacked Steve Clarke, sold their best striker and put a
foreign coach with no experience of the Premier League in charge.
Little wonder that their Premier League fate has gone to the last two weeks.
Cardiff would have stayed up with Malky Mackay in charge. Absolutely. But
their owner, Vincent Tan, allowed something that could easily have been
dealt with in-house to spiral out of control. In has come Ole Gunnar
Solskjaer. He did well in Norway as a manager but had no experience in the
bearpit that is the drop zone in the toughest league in the world. Fulham
were even worse. Three managers, the middle one a rookie who brings in an
£11million striker from Greece who plays less than a handful of games. The
third coach admittedly has a decent CV but, again, has no experience of
working in English football. Just remarkable. I just cannot understand why
the decision makers at these clubs have been willing to gamble in that way.
In what other industry would you give control of your business to somebody
with no direct qualifications to run it? It is absolute madness. For which
Fulham and Cardiff are paying the price.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
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Monday, May 5
Daily WHUFC News - 5th May 2014
Stewart savours Spurs strike
WHUFC.com
Stewart Downing bagged his first Hammers goal as he played a pivotal part in
victory over Tottenham
04.05.2014
Stewart Downing's first West Ham United goal may have been a long time
coming but was certainly worth the wait. The 29-year-old curled an
inch-perfect free-kick through Tottenham Hotspur's fragmented wall to double
the Hammers' advantage on the stroke of half-time. Ironically, an earlier
contribution was probably the more telling one. With the deadlock still to
be broken, Downing burst clear of Danny Rose, before being tripped by last
man Younes Kaboul who saw red for his troubles. All in all, a thoroughly
successful outing for West Ham's No23 and one that he says bodes well for
next season. He told West Ham TV: "I left it late but I think it was a good
time to score. Not only personally, but for the team, the way we were
playing we needed to get off to a good start. We got the early goal and the
'keeper made some unbelievable saves. I thought it could have been more. "It
was a really good day and the atmosphere was unbelievable. We played some
great football. We have to take that into next season, performances like
that, on the front foot, pressing teams. Spurs have got some unbelievable
players and on Saturday we pressed them and they made a lot of mistakes.
That's got to be the platform."
It was Downing himself who established the platform on Saturday, as his
surge toward goal culminated in the dismissal of Kaboul. The winger was in
no doubt that referee Phil Dowd had produced the right card, having been
denied the opportunity to pull the trigger. "When the ball broke to me, I've
just tried to cut across," he explained. "I got across Rose, I've seen
Kaboul and he's obviously tripped me. If he doesn't foul me I get a shot at
goal, so I don't think there's any argument. It was a sending off. "I don't
think any of their players argued too much, apart from Kaboul himself. He's
last man, it's a sending off. It would have been nice if we'd have scored
from the free-kick, but it wasn't to be. It obviously helped us with them
down to ten men as well."
As for his long-awaited goal, Downing insists that parting Tottenham's wall
was no fluke, having earlier spotted a similar breach. He continued: "We'd
seen it in the first one with Andy, they were turning and jumping. So if it
gets through a gap, it's in, because the keeper's unsighted. "We always
stress don't jump and don't turn your back, because you see so many goals go
under, or go through. That's what I tried to do, hit it through the wall and
get it through the gap, because from that distance it's quite hard to get it
up and down, especially against a 'keeper of that quality. "I did leave it
late but it was nice to get one on Saturday, especially against a local
rival and the big thing was that we won the game."
Though Downing will rightly take the plaudits, the winger reserved special
praise for manager Sam Allardyce, as preparations begin for a third
successive season in the Barclays Premier League. "Sam has been calm. The
manager's taken a lot of stick, but he's been around the block and knows how
to handle these situations. "I think he's done ever so well this season in
the circumstances that have been put in front of him. We've missed key men
at times, but I thought on Saturday it all came together. With players back
to fitness we played some really good football. It's a good send-off for the
fans, I'm sure they're happy and [we want] more of that next season."
But before next season comes firmly into focus, West Ham could yet have a
say in the title race, with Downing keen to throw a spanner in the works at
Manchester City. "We're comfortable in a good position and we can go there,
play football and do other teams a favour. The pressure's on City to win
their games and you never know! We can beat anyone on our day. We've proven
that on Saturday, so we can do it again. "It's going to be a good atmosphere
up at City and I'm really looking forward to it. They're a top team, but
that's what you want to do, test yourself, and I think we owe them a good
performance!"
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Demel's delight at home finale
WHUFC.com
Guy Demel was ecstatic to have secured three points in the Club's final home
game of the season
04.05.2014
Guy Demel was delighted to reward the Boleyn Ground crowd with West Ham
United's third win of the season against Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday, in
the Club's final home game of the campaign. The home side were dominant from
start to finish, with first half goals from Andy Carroll and Stewart Downing
sinking Spurs after Younes Kaboul had been given his marching orders.
Victory in east London followed two wins at White Hart Lane earlier in the
season and Demel was delighted to have made it three in a row with a win at
the Boleyn Ground. He told West Ham TV: "It's great for the team to give the
fans a performance like that for the last game at home. "It's really great,
also the fact that we're now mathematically safe, so it's really good. It's
a happy end to what has been a hard season, in which we've showed character.
"A couple of weeks ago I said to the lads that I was sure the game against
Tottenham would be like a final for us, so it was important to win. We
showed a lot of character. It showed we are really together as a team."
The comprehensive home victory means the Hammers have now put together three
straight wins against their fierce rivals for the first time since 1998 and
'99.
And as well as earning more bragging rights for the Hammers faithful, the
win also secured West Ham United's place in the Barclays Premier League for
next season, a fact Demel was quick to point out. "I think that we should
play Tottenham all year! It's really good, I know it means a lot to West Ham
and the club's history and it's always great when you win a derby game. "The
most important thing was to make sure that we were secure for next season."
After the final whistle on Saturday there were joyous scenes on the pitch as
the Hammers embarked on a lap of honour, with a large proportion of the
crowd staying behind to clap the team. Demel admitted it had been a tough
season for the Club, but was pleased that backing from the stands continued
during the good times and the bad. "The support from the fans has been
really good all season. There were some disappointments this season and some
reactions, but at the end of the day that isnormal. "They always back us
whether we are home or away. On Saturday, they were fantastic all the way
through. It was nice to give them a bit of happiness back, and I'm sure
they'll remember these wins for a long time."
The Ivory Coast international was also pleased that the Club have stayed
united through the testing parts of the campaign and believes the experience
in the side helped them to secure top-flight football for another season. "I
think that we started the season playing good football, but we didn't win
many football games and then we had a lot of injuries and we started losing
games. "We found ourselves in a really tricky situation, but when we had to
win those four games in February to make sure we were comfortable and we did
it. "It's what you get when you have experienced players with lots of
character. It wasn't easy, we made it look easy, but it wasn't easy. It's
never easy against Tottenham. We played well as a team and it was a great
result."
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Mourinho blew the title, says Allardyce
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 4th May 2014
By: Staff Writer
Sam Allardyce has criticised Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho for failing to
beat relegation favourites Norwich City today and all but conceding the
Premier League title to either Manchester City or Liverpool. Big Sam, who
masterminded West Ham's 2-0 win over neighbours Tottenham at the Boleyn
Ground yesterday was speaking after this afternoon's match between the Blues
and the Canaries which ended in a goalless draw. The result and resulting
solitary point effectively ends Chelsea's hopes of a trophy this season -
whilst virtually condemning City to the drop. And Allardyce - who Mourinho
claimed was responsible for playing "19th century football" following the
goalless draw between West Ham and Chelsea at Stamford Bridge in January -
was delighted at the opportunity to have a dig at his old adversary. "Jose
[Mourinho] played open expansive football with Mata, Oscar and Hazard - and
kept losing. It's a simple as that," said Allardyce this afternoon. "He
should have won the Premier League this year. He more than anybody else has
thrown the League away."
Speaking in reply to Mourinho's comments back in January, Big Sam retorted:
"He can't take it because we've tactically outwitted him. I love to see
Chelsea players moaning at the referee, trying to intimidate him, Jose
jumping up and down saying we play crap football. It's brilliant when you
get a result against him."
Chelsea's opponents today, Norwich City remain in 18th place despite taking
an unexpected point at Stamford Bridge. The Canaries must now win at home to
Arsenal next Sunday and hope that Sunderland lose both of their remaining
matches if they are to avoid the drop. Cardiff and Fulham were relegated
yesterday following their defeats against Newcastle and Stoke respectively.
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Sunderland still hoping Jack Colback and Phil Bardsley could yet stay
Last Updated: 04/05/14 12:02pm
SSN
Sunderland are set to re-open talks with Jack Colback and Phil Bardsley over
new deals after they pushed towards Premier League safety. While the Black
Cats were entrenched in the Premier League's bottom-three, they had conceded
that they would not be keeping either Colback or Bardsley - but they now
look likely to stay up which means they are ready to try and retain the duo.
With nine players out of contract this summer, Gus Poyet is set to bid
farewell to a host of players - but he wants Colback and Bardsley to remain,
who have both attracted interest from a number of Premier League rivals.
Sunderland's arch-rivals Newcastle United have shown an interest in Colback
along with Everton, whilst West Ham are thought to be keen on Bardsley - but
now new talks will commence. Sky Sports revealed last month that Colback had
not ruled out the prospect of staying at the Stadium of Light, and that
could yet be the case. After winning at Manchester United, which virtually
seals their place in the Premier League - Poyet confirmed that they will be
looking at again at the Colback and Bardsley situations. "We had
conversations with Jack and Phil, which did not work out the way anyone
hoped, so we decided to put an end to those talks," said Poyet. "But the
idea now is to leave it until we know for sure where we will be next season
and then maybe talk again. "It's a few more days to wait to know the outcome
of the season - it's not months - and it's better for them and better for
us."
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Sam Allardyce plotting busy summer at West Ham
Last Updated: 04/05/14 2:42pm
SSN
Sam Allardyce is expecting a busy summer at West Ham as he looks to
strenghthen his squad ahead of next season. The Hammers secured their top
division place on Saturday with a 2-0 win over Tottenham that lifted some of
the gloom around the club. Allardyce's position has come under intense
scrutiny in recent weeks, with fans showing their disapproval at his
tactics, but he is ignoring the criticism and getting ready to improve his
squad before next season kicks off.
"Some preparations are in place without being secured, particularly
pre-season," Allardyce said. "Players' contracts now will be discussed
between myself and owners as quickly as possible. "We will talk to the
players and then it is recruitment time - what can we find, who can we find
and how can we make the squad possible? That is the ultimate goal for me in
the summer months. "I am never not busy in the transfer window - don't worry
about that. "It is probably the only time I like social media like emails
and Skype. You don't have to be in your office like the old days, you can do
it while you are sat in the sun and communicate between everybody. "When
needed you can come back into the club and meet whoever you need to meet and
talk to whoever you need to talk to and hopefully finalise as many deals as
quickly as we can. "I say that every year, but we will probably be waiting
for players until the end of August, but as long as can get them in the end
and they are the right quality that will be fine."
Morrison
Among his summer thoughts will be the future of Ravel Morrison, who
impressed early in the season and has excelled since being sent out on loan
to Championship playoff hopefuls QPR after a mid-season slump. "He is
available for QPR's play-offs. We did the loan deal with (QPR manager) Harry
(Redknapp) and obviously he has changed the team an awful lot to rest his
key players for the first play-offs," Allardyce added when asked why
Morrison was at Upton Park on Saturday rather than playing for QPR. "If
Ravel does a good job he will be back with us next year and he will have a
big pre-season with us and see where we will go from there."
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THE CUP HEROES OF 1964: THEY MADE US PROUD
By Tony McDonald 4 May 2014 at 08:57
West Ham Till I Die
The achievements of the Men of '64 cannot be over-estimated, least of all on
this 50th anniversary of their 1964 FA Cup Final victory against Preston
North End.
Ron Greenwood's all-English Hammers twice came from behind to win one of the
most entertaining finals in the competition's rich history, although second
division Preston played their part, too, and rightly considered themselves
unfortunate to lose 3-2 to Ronnie Boyce's injury-time winner.
Although Hammers had won the second division championship under Ted Fenton
in 1958, it was Greenwood – the innovative and archetypal track suit manager
– who inherited the excellent groundwork of the 50s Academy and built on it
to put the club on the map with back-to-back Wembley cup triumphs in the
mid-60s.
In recent weeks I've again had the pleasure of meeting up with six of the
eight West Ham survivors from the '64 final: John Sissons (who was over from
South Africa to attend his mother Emily's 100th birthday in Surrey),
match-winning hero Boyce, Ken Brown, Eddie Bovington, Peter Brabrook and
Jack Burkett.
As well as interviewing them for the latest commemorative issue of EX
magazine, I filmed them for our commemorative double-disc West Ham Cup
Legends 1964 DVD. What comes across on camera as they recall those
unprecedented glory days is the pride, honour and humility with which they
enjoyed their best times in a claret and blue shirt.
It's refreshing to hear them speak with enduring affection about this golden
era and you can't help but feel yourself being transported back in time to a
much simpler age when values and principles were to be cherished and
preserved – not qualities you would readily associate with the
financially-driven, cynical excesses of modern football or, indeed, life
itself in the 21st century.
Jack Burkett recalls how, after the homecoming parade on the morning after
the final, he and his then girlfriend Ann travelled back to their respective
homes in north London by tube and bus. "I didn't own a car at the time, so I
had to travel on London Transport with my medal tucked inside my jacket
pocket and yet no-one even recognised me," says the former left-back, who
admits if the final had been played today he would have been red-carded
following a series of scything tackles on Preston winger Davie Wilson in the
early, nervy stages of the final.
"But the ref, Mr Arthur Holland, just came by me and gave me a warning. 'You
don't want to be the first player to be sent off in the Cup final, do you?'
he said. I was nearly sick with worry at the thought of being sent off,"
Burkett added. "That was the difference – in those days players and referees
would talk to each other."
What a pity, then, that Jack – now 71 and battling to cope with skin cancer,
a recurring back problem that stems from his West Ham playing days and
having recovered from a recent heart attack – reached the stage last year
when he decided to sell both his FA Cup and European Cup Winners' Cup shirts
and medals to raise the money to pay off his mortgage.
John Sissons, the flying left-winger who shrugged off prostate cancer a
decade ago, didn't have the option to cash in his most prized possessions.
His two winners' medals were stolen from his Cape Town home some years ago.
Sissons, the flying left-winger and 'baby' of the team who, at 18, became
the youngest FA Cup goalscorer when he drilled home West Ham's first
equaliser, recalls the financial rewards of being a history-maker. "My basic
weekly wage doubled from £15 to £30 after the final and it went up to £50 by
the following Christmas – the most I ever earned at West Ham before I left
to join Sheffield Wednesday in 1970.
"We also made about £600 from the players' pool – and I spent my money on a
new Morris 1100 car!"
In those days, players didn't have the luxury of lavish long-term contracts
enjoyed by the likes of Andy Carroll and Kevin Nolan. Ron Boyce had scored
two goals in the shock semi-final victory against holders Manchester United
(who were going for the treble of league title, FA Cup and ECWC at the time)
before his headed winner that sunk plucky Preston but, like his team-mates,
'Ticker' was effectively out of contract as soon as the final whistle blew
at Wembley on the greatest day of his career.
When he didn't rush straight up to Greenwood's office at the Boleyn Ground
to re-sign on the dotted line for the following season, club secretary Eddie
Chapman was quoted in the local press as suggesting that Boyce was
prevaricating and using his new-found status as FA Cup hero to hold out for
more money. It was all nonsense, of course, and Ron remained a West Ham
player until he hung up his boots after a well-earned testimonial in 1972,
before joining the coaching staff.
Ronnie made 339 senior appearances for his beloved Hammers and by the time
he had served as first team coach, youth coach and chief scout, he'd given
all 37 years of his working life to the club before being unceremoniously
sacked in 1995. His reward for such loyal and distinguished service? A
pitiful £5,000 (five thousand pounds) severance pay-off – and he even had to
haggle with MD Peter Storrie to get as much as that.
You couldn't blame 'Boycey' for feeling a tad bitter at the way he was
treated so disgracefully by the only club he ever worked for (Bovington
being the only other one-club man from the Men of '64). But as we chat in
the peace and tranquillity of his Norfolk farmhouse, the love he still has
for West Ham United comes shining through when he says: "They will always be
my club; West Ham's result is still the first one I look for."
Eight members of the '64 team came through the junior ranks at Upton Park.
The hugely gifted Johnny Byrne, goalkeeper Jim Standen and tricky
right-winger Peter Brabrook were the three who cost a fee. In Braaders'
case, West Ham paid £35,000 for a player in 1962 who they could have got for
nothing as a schoolboy years earlier, when Chelsea nipped in and, just as
they did with Dagenham-based Jimmy Greaves, used financial inducements to
lure the best young talent to Stamford Bridge. Never mind the Russian
roubles that took Joe Cole and Glen Johnson across London in 2003, even in
the late 50s Chelsea were buying success.
Within weeks of the '64 final, Jack Burkett was the subject of a £45,000
transfer bid by Tottenham Hotspur – his local club. But this sums up the
vice-like grip all clubs exerted over their players in those days. When
Greenwood informed Jack of Spurs' interest, in the same breath he told him
that West Ham had turned down the offer. End of.
Burkett had no avaricious agent to dictate terms and influence his future.
He accepted the West Ham manager's resolute stance without question and was
simply relieved that a potentially difficult decision had been taken out of
his hands.
Four of the squad – Burkett, Boyce, Geoff Hurst and the unlucky Martin
Peters, who never played a cup game that season after losing his place to
Eddie Bov following the infamous 8-2 Blackburn Rovers league debacle at home
in December 1963 – got married that summer. Burkett and his new bride Ann
bought a two-bedroom semi in Hathaway Gardens, Chadwell Heath for £5,100.
Ronnie and Dawn Boyce joined fellow newlyweds Geoff and Judith Hurst, Martin
and Kathy Peters and John and Janice Sissons on the County Park estate in
Hornchurch.
But for Standen, now living in California, it was business as usual. As soon
as the celebrations died down, he resumed his duties as opening fast bowler
for Worcestershire Cricket Club, for whom he topped the bowling averages and
picked up a County Championship winners' medal in 1964! Now that's what you
call versatility.
*Tony McDonald edits the retro EX magazine. To order the latest issue and
the new West Ham Cup Legends 1964 DVD, visit the EX website
www.ex-hammers.com
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Sam Allardyce safe at West Ham - as it would cost £3million to get rid of
him
May 04, 2014 13:53 By Alan Nixon
The Mirror
Sam Allardyce will not leave West Ham - unless he gets a whopping £3million
pay-off, writes Alan Nixon in the Sunday People. The West Ham boss is under
growing pressure from restless fans at the way the season has ended. A
recent poll suggested more than 70 percent of Hammers fans want him out. But
any attempts to get rid of the experienced boss will come at a huge cost.
Allardyce, who led the Hammers to a 2-0 win over Spurs on Saturday, will
want the whole of the final year of his contract paid, a sum that takes a
chunk out of the West Ham bank. The Hammers board know they will have to
fork out the cash if they want a change of gaffer - and that is a big factor
in their current thinking.
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David and Victoria Beckham watch son Cruz play in Under 10s tournament at
Upton Park
By GRAEME YORKE
PUBLISHED: 00:24, 5 May 2014 | UPDATED: 02:37, 5 May 2014
Daily Mail
David Beckham was at Upton Park to cheer on son Cruz in an Under 10s
tournament on Sunday. The former England captain, accompanied by wife
Vicotria and eldest son Brooklyn, was spotted in the stands at West Ham's
home ground as Cruz turned out for Chelsea. Beckham, himself born in the
east end, was happy to oblige one fan with a picture before the same
youngster took a selfie as David watched on while Victoria spoke on the
phone. It's not the first time the former Manchester United and Real Madrd
midfielder has taken time out to support his son on the football field. Just
last week, Beckham watched Cruz win a regional cup final. The nine-year-old
has clearly has his Dad's footballing genes as he was seen celebrating a
spectacular goal with a somersault during the Sunday morning cup match
against local rivals. Beckham's eldest son Brooklyn, who on Sunday was
pictured in a Manchester United tracksuit top, is also a keen footballer and
has had trials with a host of London clubs in the past.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ravel Morrison returns to Upton Park to watch West Ham's win against
Tottenham
By JOHN DRAYTON
PUBLISHED: 00:05, 5 May 2014 | UPDATED: 00:05, 5 May 2014
Daily Mail
Ravel Morrison watched from the bench as West Ham completed a Premier League
double over Tottenham with a 2-0 win at Upton Park on Saturday. The former
Manchester United youngster, who scored in the 3-0 victory at White Hart
Lane back in October, was shipped out on loan to Championship promotion
chasers QPR in January. However, the attacking midfielder was rested for the
clash at Barnsley, and took the opportunity to see his parent club claim
bragging rights against Spurs instead. Morrison's future in East London has
been up in the air, but boss Sam Allardyce allowed the talented 21-year-old
to watch from the dugout, which could pave the way for a return to the fold
next season. He has scored six goals in 14 starts for Harry Redknapp's side
since his temporary switch across the capital as the Hoops try to bounce
back from relegation at the first attempt. Morrison is expected to return to
the QPR side for next week's play-off semi-final against Wigan Athletic.
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West Ham on Sunday night transfer mission
Posted by SPORT WITNESS on May 5, 2014 at 7:32 in Sport Witness Football
According to reports in the Portuguese media, West Ham United were in
attendance for the game between Benfica and Vitoria de Setubal on Sunday
night. The Hammers have been frequent visitors to Portugal this season and
in particular in Lisbon to watch the recently crowned Portuguese champions.
O Jogo have reported that West Ham were amongst a number of other clubs that
attended the game last night. From the scouting list released by Benfica
officials they have confirmed the Premier League club had sent
representatives to watch the 1-1 draw between the two sides. West Ham have
been linked in recent months with Benfica's two South American forwards
Oscar Cardozo and Rodrigo Lima. Due to their participation in the Europa
League semi final on Thursday manager Jorge Jesus put out an under strength
team so only Cardozo started the game, with Lima coming on as a second half
substitute.
In March Lima was linked with the West Ham after Talksport reported Sam
Allardyce was weighing up whether to sign the player in the summer transfer
window. West Ham have had their problems this season in the forwards
department mainly due to the injury to Andy Carroll and therefore big Sam is
looking to strengthen in the summer. Long term Cardozo was linked with a
move to West Ham last summer and would be useful addition to the squad but
he may be deemed to be similar to what the club already have at their
disposal.
Lima has been consistent goal scorer since arriving at Benfica in 2012 and
the Brazilian would add experience to the West Ham squad. He would also
offer a different option to Carroll or Carlton Cole because of his mobility
and goal scoring record.
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WHUFC.com
Stewart Downing bagged his first Hammers goal as he played a pivotal part in
victory over Tottenham
04.05.2014
Stewart Downing's first West Ham United goal may have been a long time
coming but was certainly worth the wait. The 29-year-old curled an
inch-perfect free-kick through Tottenham Hotspur's fragmented wall to double
the Hammers' advantage on the stroke of half-time. Ironically, an earlier
contribution was probably the more telling one. With the deadlock still to
be broken, Downing burst clear of Danny Rose, before being tripped by last
man Younes Kaboul who saw red for his troubles. All in all, a thoroughly
successful outing for West Ham's No23 and one that he says bodes well for
next season. He told West Ham TV: "I left it late but I think it was a good
time to score. Not only personally, but for the team, the way we were
playing we needed to get off to a good start. We got the early goal and the
'keeper made some unbelievable saves. I thought it could have been more. "It
was a really good day and the atmosphere was unbelievable. We played some
great football. We have to take that into next season, performances like
that, on the front foot, pressing teams. Spurs have got some unbelievable
players and on Saturday we pressed them and they made a lot of mistakes.
That's got to be the platform."
It was Downing himself who established the platform on Saturday, as his
surge toward goal culminated in the dismissal of Kaboul. The winger was in
no doubt that referee Phil Dowd had produced the right card, having been
denied the opportunity to pull the trigger. "When the ball broke to me, I've
just tried to cut across," he explained. "I got across Rose, I've seen
Kaboul and he's obviously tripped me. If he doesn't foul me I get a shot at
goal, so I don't think there's any argument. It was a sending off. "I don't
think any of their players argued too much, apart from Kaboul himself. He's
last man, it's a sending off. It would have been nice if we'd have scored
from the free-kick, but it wasn't to be. It obviously helped us with them
down to ten men as well."
As for his long-awaited goal, Downing insists that parting Tottenham's wall
was no fluke, having earlier spotted a similar breach. He continued: "We'd
seen it in the first one with Andy, they were turning and jumping. So if it
gets through a gap, it's in, because the keeper's unsighted. "We always
stress don't jump and don't turn your back, because you see so many goals go
under, or go through. That's what I tried to do, hit it through the wall and
get it through the gap, because from that distance it's quite hard to get it
up and down, especially against a 'keeper of that quality. "I did leave it
late but it was nice to get one on Saturday, especially against a local
rival and the big thing was that we won the game."
Though Downing will rightly take the plaudits, the winger reserved special
praise for manager Sam Allardyce, as preparations begin for a third
successive season in the Barclays Premier League. "Sam has been calm. The
manager's taken a lot of stick, but he's been around the block and knows how
to handle these situations. "I think he's done ever so well this season in
the circumstances that have been put in front of him. We've missed key men
at times, but I thought on Saturday it all came together. With players back
to fitness we played some really good football. It's a good send-off for the
fans, I'm sure they're happy and [we want] more of that next season."
But before next season comes firmly into focus, West Ham could yet have a
say in the title race, with Downing keen to throw a spanner in the works at
Manchester City. "We're comfortable in a good position and we can go there,
play football and do other teams a favour. The pressure's on City to win
their games and you never know! We can beat anyone on our day. We've proven
that on Saturday, so we can do it again. "It's going to be a good atmosphere
up at City and I'm really looking forward to it. They're a top team, but
that's what you want to do, test yourself, and I think we owe them a good
performance!"
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Demel's delight at home finale
WHUFC.com
Guy Demel was ecstatic to have secured three points in the Club's final home
game of the season
04.05.2014
Guy Demel was delighted to reward the Boleyn Ground crowd with West Ham
United's third win of the season against Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday, in
the Club's final home game of the campaign. The home side were dominant from
start to finish, with first half goals from Andy Carroll and Stewart Downing
sinking Spurs after Younes Kaboul had been given his marching orders.
Victory in east London followed two wins at White Hart Lane earlier in the
season and Demel was delighted to have made it three in a row with a win at
the Boleyn Ground. He told West Ham TV: "It's great for the team to give the
fans a performance like that for the last game at home. "It's really great,
also the fact that we're now mathematically safe, so it's really good. It's
a happy end to what has been a hard season, in which we've showed character.
"A couple of weeks ago I said to the lads that I was sure the game against
Tottenham would be like a final for us, so it was important to win. We
showed a lot of character. It showed we are really together as a team."
The comprehensive home victory means the Hammers have now put together three
straight wins against their fierce rivals for the first time since 1998 and
'99.
And as well as earning more bragging rights for the Hammers faithful, the
win also secured West Ham United's place in the Barclays Premier League for
next season, a fact Demel was quick to point out. "I think that we should
play Tottenham all year! It's really good, I know it means a lot to West Ham
and the club's history and it's always great when you win a derby game. "The
most important thing was to make sure that we were secure for next season."
After the final whistle on Saturday there were joyous scenes on the pitch as
the Hammers embarked on a lap of honour, with a large proportion of the
crowd staying behind to clap the team. Demel admitted it had been a tough
season for the Club, but was pleased that backing from the stands continued
during the good times and the bad. "The support from the fans has been
really good all season. There were some disappointments this season and some
reactions, but at the end of the day that isnormal. "They always back us
whether we are home or away. On Saturday, they were fantastic all the way
through. It was nice to give them a bit of happiness back, and I'm sure
they'll remember these wins for a long time."
The Ivory Coast international was also pleased that the Club have stayed
united through the testing parts of the campaign and believes the experience
in the side helped them to secure top-flight football for another season. "I
think that we started the season playing good football, but we didn't win
many football games and then we had a lot of injuries and we started losing
games. "We found ourselves in a really tricky situation, but when we had to
win those four games in February to make sure we were comfortable and we did
it. "It's what you get when you have experienced players with lots of
character. It wasn't easy, we made it look easy, but it wasn't easy. It's
never easy against Tottenham. We played well as a team and it was a great
result."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Mourinho blew the title, says Allardyce
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 4th May 2014
By: Staff Writer
Sam Allardyce has criticised Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho for failing to
beat relegation favourites Norwich City today and all but conceding the
Premier League title to either Manchester City or Liverpool. Big Sam, who
masterminded West Ham's 2-0 win over neighbours Tottenham at the Boleyn
Ground yesterday was speaking after this afternoon's match between the Blues
and the Canaries which ended in a goalless draw. The result and resulting
solitary point effectively ends Chelsea's hopes of a trophy this season -
whilst virtually condemning City to the drop. And Allardyce - who Mourinho
claimed was responsible for playing "19th century football" following the
goalless draw between West Ham and Chelsea at Stamford Bridge in January -
was delighted at the opportunity to have a dig at his old adversary. "Jose
[Mourinho] played open expansive football with Mata, Oscar and Hazard - and
kept losing. It's a simple as that," said Allardyce this afternoon. "He
should have won the Premier League this year. He more than anybody else has
thrown the League away."
Speaking in reply to Mourinho's comments back in January, Big Sam retorted:
"He can't take it because we've tactically outwitted him. I love to see
Chelsea players moaning at the referee, trying to intimidate him, Jose
jumping up and down saying we play crap football. It's brilliant when you
get a result against him."
Chelsea's opponents today, Norwich City remain in 18th place despite taking
an unexpected point at Stamford Bridge. The Canaries must now win at home to
Arsenal next Sunday and hope that Sunderland lose both of their remaining
matches if they are to avoid the drop. Cardiff and Fulham were relegated
yesterday following their defeats against Newcastle and Stoke respectively.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sunderland still hoping Jack Colback and Phil Bardsley could yet stay
Last Updated: 04/05/14 12:02pm
SSN
Sunderland are set to re-open talks with Jack Colback and Phil Bardsley over
new deals after they pushed towards Premier League safety. While the Black
Cats were entrenched in the Premier League's bottom-three, they had conceded
that they would not be keeping either Colback or Bardsley - but they now
look likely to stay up which means they are ready to try and retain the duo.
With nine players out of contract this summer, Gus Poyet is set to bid
farewell to a host of players - but he wants Colback and Bardsley to remain,
who have both attracted interest from a number of Premier League rivals.
Sunderland's arch-rivals Newcastle United have shown an interest in Colback
along with Everton, whilst West Ham are thought to be keen on Bardsley - but
now new talks will commence. Sky Sports revealed last month that Colback had
not ruled out the prospect of staying at the Stadium of Light, and that
could yet be the case. After winning at Manchester United, which virtually
seals their place in the Premier League - Poyet confirmed that they will be
looking at again at the Colback and Bardsley situations. "We had
conversations with Jack and Phil, which did not work out the way anyone
hoped, so we decided to put an end to those talks," said Poyet. "But the
idea now is to leave it until we know for sure where we will be next season
and then maybe talk again. "It's a few more days to wait to know the outcome
of the season - it's not months - and it's better for them and better for
us."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sam Allardyce plotting busy summer at West Ham
Last Updated: 04/05/14 2:42pm
SSN
Sam Allardyce is expecting a busy summer at West Ham as he looks to
strenghthen his squad ahead of next season. The Hammers secured their top
division place on Saturday with a 2-0 win over Tottenham that lifted some of
the gloom around the club. Allardyce's position has come under intense
scrutiny in recent weeks, with fans showing their disapproval at his
tactics, but he is ignoring the criticism and getting ready to improve his
squad before next season kicks off.
"Some preparations are in place without being secured, particularly
pre-season," Allardyce said. "Players' contracts now will be discussed
between myself and owners as quickly as possible. "We will talk to the
players and then it is recruitment time - what can we find, who can we find
and how can we make the squad possible? That is the ultimate goal for me in
the summer months. "I am never not busy in the transfer window - don't worry
about that. "It is probably the only time I like social media like emails
and Skype. You don't have to be in your office like the old days, you can do
it while you are sat in the sun and communicate between everybody. "When
needed you can come back into the club and meet whoever you need to meet and
talk to whoever you need to talk to and hopefully finalise as many deals as
quickly as we can. "I say that every year, but we will probably be waiting
for players until the end of August, but as long as can get them in the end
and they are the right quality that will be fine."
Morrison
Among his summer thoughts will be the future of Ravel Morrison, who
impressed early in the season and has excelled since being sent out on loan
to Championship playoff hopefuls QPR after a mid-season slump. "He is
available for QPR's play-offs. We did the loan deal with (QPR manager) Harry
(Redknapp) and obviously he has changed the team an awful lot to rest his
key players for the first play-offs," Allardyce added when asked why
Morrison was at Upton Park on Saturday rather than playing for QPR. "If
Ravel does a good job he will be back with us next year and he will have a
big pre-season with us and see where we will go from there."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
THE CUP HEROES OF 1964: THEY MADE US PROUD
By Tony McDonald 4 May 2014 at 08:57
West Ham Till I Die
The achievements of the Men of '64 cannot be over-estimated, least of all on
this 50th anniversary of their 1964 FA Cup Final victory against Preston
North End.
Ron Greenwood's all-English Hammers twice came from behind to win one of the
most entertaining finals in the competition's rich history, although second
division Preston played their part, too, and rightly considered themselves
unfortunate to lose 3-2 to Ronnie Boyce's injury-time winner.
Although Hammers had won the second division championship under Ted Fenton
in 1958, it was Greenwood – the innovative and archetypal track suit manager
– who inherited the excellent groundwork of the 50s Academy and built on it
to put the club on the map with back-to-back Wembley cup triumphs in the
mid-60s.
In recent weeks I've again had the pleasure of meeting up with six of the
eight West Ham survivors from the '64 final: John Sissons (who was over from
South Africa to attend his mother Emily's 100th birthday in Surrey),
match-winning hero Boyce, Ken Brown, Eddie Bovington, Peter Brabrook and
Jack Burkett.
As well as interviewing them for the latest commemorative issue of EX
magazine, I filmed them for our commemorative double-disc West Ham Cup
Legends 1964 DVD. What comes across on camera as they recall those
unprecedented glory days is the pride, honour and humility with which they
enjoyed their best times in a claret and blue shirt.
It's refreshing to hear them speak with enduring affection about this golden
era and you can't help but feel yourself being transported back in time to a
much simpler age when values and principles were to be cherished and
preserved – not qualities you would readily associate with the
financially-driven, cynical excesses of modern football or, indeed, life
itself in the 21st century.
Jack Burkett recalls how, after the homecoming parade on the morning after
the final, he and his then girlfriend Ann travelled back to their respective
homes in north London by tube and bus. "I didn't own a car at the time, so I
had to travel on London Transport with my medal tucked inside my jacket
pocket and yet no-one even recognised me," says the former left-back, who
admits if the final had been played today he would have been red-carded
following a series of scything tackles on Preston winger Davie Wilson in the
early, nervy stages of the final.
"But the ref, Mr Arthur Holland, just came by me and gave me a warning. 'You
don't want to be the first player to be sent off in the Cup final, do you?'
he said. I was nearly sick with worry at the thought of being sent off,"
Burkett added. "That was the difference – in those days players and referees
would talk to each other."
What a pity, then, that Jack – now 71 and battling to cope with skin cancer,
a recurring back problem that stems from his West Ham playing days and
having recovered from a recent heart attack – reached the stage last year
when he decided to sell both his FA Cup and European Cup Winners' Cup shirts
and medals to raise the money to pay off his mortgage.
John Sissons, the flying left-winger who shrugged off prostate cancer a
decade ago, didn't have the option to cash in his most prized possessions.
His two winners' medals were stolen from his Cape Town home some years ago.
Sissons, the flying left-winger and 'baby' of the team who, at 18, became
the youngest FA Cup goalscorer when he drilled home West Ham's first
equaliser, recalls the financial rewards of being a history-maker. "My basic
weekly wage doubled from £15 to £30 after the final and it went up to £50 by
the following Christmas – the most I ever earned at West Ham before I left
to join Sheffield Wednesday in 1970.
"We also made about £600 from the players' pool – and I spent my money on a
new Morris 1100 car!"
In those days, players didn't have the luxury of lavish long-term contracts
enjoyed by the likes of Andy Carroll and Kevin Nolan. Ron Boyce had scored
two goals in the shock semi-final victory against holders Manchester United
(who were going for the treble of league title, FA Cup and ECWC at the time)
before his headed winner that sunk plucky Preston but, like his team-mates,
'Ticker' was effectively out of contract as soon as the final whistle blew
at Wembley on the greatest day of his career.
When he didn't rush straight up to Greenwood's office at the Boleyn Ground
to re-sign on the dotted line for the following season, club secretary Eddie
Chapman was quoted in the local press as suggesting that Boyce was
prevaricating and using his new-found status as FA Cup hero to hold out for
more money. It was all nonsense, of course, and Ron remained a West Ham
player until he hung up his boots after a well-earned testimonial in 1972,
before joining the coaching staff.
Ronnie made 339 senior appearances for his beloved Hammers and by the time
he had served as first team coach, youth coach and chief scout, he'd given
all 37 years of his working life to the club before being unceremoniously
sacked in 1995. His reward for such loyal and distinguished service? A
pitiful £5,000 (five thousand pounds) severance pay-off – and he even had to
haggle with MD Peter Storrie to get as much as that.
You couldn't blame 'Boycey' for feeling a tad bitter at the way he was
treated so disgracefully by the only club he ever worked for (Bovington
being the only other one-club man from the Men of '64). But as we chat in
the peace and tranquillity of his Norfolk farmhouse, the love he still has
for West Ham United comes shining through when he says: "They will always be
my club; West Ham's result is still the first one I look for."
Eight members of the '64 team came through the junior ranks at Upton Park.
The hugely gifted Johnny Byrne, goalkeeper Jim Standen and tricky
right-winger Peter Brabrook were the three who cost a fee. In Braaders'
case, West Ham paid £35,000 for a player in 1962 who they could have got for
nothing as a schoolboy years earlier, when Chelsea nipped in and, just as
they did with Dagenham-based Jimmy Greaves, used financial inducements to
lure the best young talent to Stamford Bridge. Never mind the Russian
roubles that took Joe Cole and Glen Johnson across London in 2003, even in
the late 50s Chelsea were buying success.
Within weeks of the '64 final, Jack Burkett was the subject of a £45,000
transfer bid by Tottenham Hotspur – his local club. But this sums up the
vice-like grip all clubs exerted over their players in those days. When
Greenwood informed Jack of Spurs' interest, in the same breath he told him
that West Ham had turned down the offer. End of.
Burkett had no avaricious agent to dictate terms and influence his future.
He accepted the West Ham manager's resolute stance without question and was
simply relieved that a potentially difficult decision had been taken out of
his hands.
Four of the squad – Burkett, Boyce, Geoff Hurst and the unlucky Martin
Peters, who never played a cup game that season after losing his place to
Eddie Bov following the infamous 8-2 Blackburn Rovers league debacle at home
in December 1963 – got married that summer. Burkett and his new bride Ann
bought a two-bedroom semi in Hathaway Gardens, Chadwell Heath for £5,100.
Ronnie and Dawn Boyce joined fellow newlyweds Geoff and Judith Hurst, Martin
and Kathy Peters and John and Janice Sissons on the County Park estate in
Hornchurch.
But for Standen, now living in California, it was business as usual. As soon
as the celebrations died down, he resumed his duties as opening fast bowler
for Worcestershire Cricket Club, for whom he topped the bowling averages and
picked up a County Championship winners' medal in 1964! Now that's what you
call versatility.
*Tony McDonald edits the retro EX magazine. To order the latest issue and
the new West Ham Cup Legends 1964 DVD, visit the EX website
www.ex-hammers.com
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Sam Allardyce safe at West Ham - as it would cost £3million to get rid of
him
May 04, 2014 13:53 By Alan Nixon
The Mirror
Sam Allardyce will not leave West Ham - unless he gets a whopping £3million
pay-off, writes Alan Nixon in the Sunday People. The West Ham boss is under
growing pressure from restless fans at the way the season has ended. A
recent poll suggested more than 70 percent of Hammers fans want him out. But
any attempts to get rid of the experienced boss will come at a huge cost.
Allardyce, who led the Hammers to a 2-0 win over Spurs on Saturday, will
want the whole of the final year of his contract paid, a sum that takes a
chunk out of the West Ham bank. The Hammers board know they will have to
fork out the cash if they want a change of gaffer - and that is a big factor
in their current thinking.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
David and Victoria Beckham watch son Cruz play in Under 10s tournament at
Upton Park
By GRAEME YORKE
PUBLISHED: 00:24, 5 May 2014 | UPDATED: 02:37, 5 May 2014
Daily Mail
David Beckham was at Upton Park to cheer on son Cruz in an Under 10s
tournament on Sunday. The former England captain, accompanied by wife
Vicotria and eldest son Brooklyn, was spotted in the stands at West Ham's
home ground as Cruz turned out for Chelsea. Beckham, himself born in the
east end, was happy to oblige one fan with a picture before the same
youngster took a selfie as David watched on while Victoria spoke on the
phone. It's not the first time the former Manchester United and Real Madrd
midfielder has taken time out to support his son on the football field. Just
last week, Beckham watched Cruz win a regional cup final. The nine-year-old
has clearly has his Dad's footballing genes as he was seen celebrating a
spectacular goal with a somersault during the Sunday morning cup match
against local rivals. Beckham's eldest son Brooklyn, who on Sunday was
pictured in a Manchester United tracksuit top, is also a keen footballer and
has had trials with a host of London clubs in the past.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ravel Morrison returns to Upton Park to watch West Ham's win against
Tottenham
By JOHN DRAYTON
PUBLISHED: 00:05, 5 May 2014 | UPDATED: 00:05, 5 May 2014
Daily Mail
Ravel Morrison watched from the bench as West Ham completed a Premier League
double over Tottenham with a 2-0 win at Upton Park on Saturday. The former
Manchester United youngster, who scored in the 3-0 victory at White Hart
Lane back in October, was shipped out on loan to Championship promotion
chasers QPR in January. However, the attacking midfielder was rested for the
clash at Barnsley, and took the opportunity to see his parent club claim
bragging rights against Spurs instead. Morrison's future in East London has
been up in the air, but boss Sam Allardyce allowed the talented 21-year-old
to watch from the dugout, which could pave the way for a return to the fold
next season. He has scored six goals in 14 starts for Harry Redknapp's side
since his temporary switch across the capital as the Hoops try to bounce
back from relegation at the first attempt. Morrison is expected to return to
the QPR side for next week's play-off semi-final against Wigan Athletic.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham on Sunday night transfer mission
Posted by SPORT WITNESS on May 5, 2014 at 7:32 in Sport Witness Football
According to reports in the Portuguese media, West Ham United were in
attendance for the game between Benfica and Vitoria de Setubal on Sunday
night. The Hammers have been frequent visitors to Portugal this season and
in particular in Lisbon to watch the recently crowned Portuguese champions.
O Jogo have reported that West Ham were amongst a number of other clubs that
attended the game last night. From the scouting list released by Benfica
officials they have confirmed the Premier League club had sent
representatives to watch the 1-1 draw between the two sides. West Ham have
been linked in recent months with Benfica's two South American forwards
Oscar Cardozo and Rodrigo Lima. Due to their participation in the Europa
League semi final on Thursday manager Jorge Jesus put out an under strength
team so only Cardozo started the game, with Lima coming on as a second half
substitute.
In March Lima was linked with the West Ham after Talksport reported Sam
Allardyce was weighing up whether to sign the player in the summer transfer
window. West Ham have had their problems this season in the forwards
department mainly due to the injury to Andy Carroll and therefore big Sam is
looking to strengthen in the summer. Long term Cardozo was linked with a
move to West Ham last summer and would be useful addition to the squad but
he may be deemed to be similar to what the club already have at their
disposal.
Lima has been consistent goal scorer since arriving at Benfica in 2012 and
the Brazilian would add experience to the West Ham squad. He would also
offer a different option to Carroll or Carlton Cole because of his mobility
and goal scoring record.
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Sunday, May 4
Daily WHUFC News - 4th May 2014
Hammers complete Tottenham treble
WHUFC.com
Two first-half goals see the Hammers secure a third win of the season over
Tottenham Hotspur
03.05.2014
West Ham United 2-0 Tottenham Hotspur
Barclays Premier League
West Ham United completed a famous hat-trick over Tottenham Hotspur on
Saturday, as a Harry Kane own goal and Stewart Downing's first for the
Hammers proved plenty to see off ten-man Spurs in the Barclays Premier
League. After Younes Kaboul had seen red for upending Downing when through
on goal, Kane diverted Andy Carroll's header past Hugo Lloris, before
Downing doubled the lead with a well-placed free-kick. But for the
outstanding Lloris, it would surely have been more, as the three points
rubber stamp West Ham's place in the top flight. Sam Allardyce had made just
one change to the side edged out by West Bromwich Albion, with Matt Taylor
replacing Matt Jarvis and Mohamed Diame, in turn, reverting to a wide
midfield role. There was to be an early scare for the hosts, as Kane charged
down Adrian's clearance, though the rebound flew well wide. At the other
end, Winston Reid collected Carroll's knockdown, but could only hook into
Lloris' arms. Back came Spurs, led by Christian Eriksen, who fed Emmanuel
Adebayor, only to see the No10 sidefoot tamely at Adrian. Paulinho, too, hit
the target, but his header from a Kyle Naughton centre was straight at the
Hammers custodian. Moments later and Downing set off down the right, cut
inside, before screwing an effort well wide of the target. A sign of things
to come, as it proved. With 25 minutes gone, the winger beat Danny Rose to a
long ball and skipped across Kaboul, who sent the Hammers man tumbling. Phil
Dowd took his time, before giving the Frenchman his marching orders. Carroll
thumped the resulting free-kick goalwards, forcing Spurs' keeper into an
excellent stop high to his right. There would be no escape, however, as
Carroll met Noble's corner and watched as his header glanced off Kane's head
and past Lloris' despairing dive. The chances continued to come for the
hosts, with Matt Taylor's volley looking destined for the bottom corner, but
for the fingertip intervention of Lloris. But, down to his left once more,
Lloris was powerless to prevent the second. After Michael Dawson had felled
Noble on the edge of the box, Downing's free-kick snuck through the wall,
between Paulinho and Adebayor, as the No23 celebrated his first goal for the
Club.
West Ham threatened to make it three soon after the restart, but were
repeatedly denied by the excellent Lloris. An airborne Diame saw his
acrobatic effort repelled by France's No1, before Taylor slotted the rebound
just wide of the upright. With the hour approaching, skipper Kevin Nolan
went close too. Latching on to a Carroll header, he shot on the turn, with
Lloris somehow able to smother and divert it behind for a corner. In
fairness, Spurs grew into proceedings thereafter, although neither
substitute Roberto Soldado nor Aaron Lennon were able to trouble Adrian.
England frontman Carroll and captain Nolan were withdrawn late on to
rapturous Boleyn Ground applause, as the Hammers looked to round off their
home campaign in style. Though Rose very nearly halved the deficit late on,
Adrian's fabulous stop ensured there would be no grandstand finish.
West Ham United: Adrian; Demel, Tomkins, Reid, McCartney; Downing, Noble,
Nolan (Jarvis 86), Taylor, Diame; Carroll (C Cole 84)
Subs not used: Jaaskelainen, Armero, Vaz Te, Collins, Nocerino
Goals: Kane og 27 , Downing 44
Tottenham Hotspur: Lloris; Naughton, Dawson, Kaboul, Rose; Lennon, Paulinho
(Sandro), Sigurdsson (Soldado 66), Eriksen; Adebayor, Kane (Chirices 28).
Subs not used: Friedel, Fryers, Pritchard, Bentaleb
Booked: Naughton, Dawson, Sandro, Soldado
Sent off: Kaboul
Referee: Phil Dowd
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Carroll thrilled with derby success
WHUFC.com
Andy Carroll may have missed the first two Spurs wins this season, but made
his mark on Saturday
03.05.2014
Andy Carroll was thrilled to play his part as West Ham United completed
their Tottenham treble on Saturday. The No9 missed out earlier this season
when the Hammers won at White Hart Lane in both league and cup, but made
sure he had an impact at the Boleyn Ground as Sam Allardyce's men finished
their home programme in style. Carroll's 27th minute header flicked off
Spurs man Harry Kane's head on its way past Hugo Lloris to give West Ham the
lead, and he caused centre halves Michael Dawson and Vlad Chiriches no end
of problems with a dominant display. The three point haul was no less than
the Hammers deserved and Carroll admitted that the prospect of beating the
north Londoners for a third time this season was all the motivation they
needed. He said: "The gaffer put it in our heads that if we beat them for
the third time we'd be setting a record, so I think we gave it a little
extra for that and it showed. The performance today was fantastic and we
deserved the three points. "The fans were fantastic and it was great to win
the last game of the season at home for them. The fans gave us a big lift,
and we played the football we know we can play - hopefully we can take that
into next season. "Even before [Kaboul's] sending off I thought we were
dominating and I don't think they caused us any problems. We were confident
all the way through the game and it was great to score so soon after the red
card. "I'm going to claim the goal, every striker would, especially as I
haven't scored too many this season. We'll have to watch it back, but I'll
claim it!"
The Hammers also ensured mathematical safety with the three-point haul, and
Carroll was glad that they finished the job themselves. He added: "It was
very important to make sure we ended here with a result. After all the work
we put in it would have been a shame to end with six games without a win.
"We've put a stop to that, we've got one more left and hopefully we can do
something at Man City. "It's been tough throughout the season, but we've
worked hard. We're in the Premier League for next season and that's all that
matters really."
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Big Sam salutes 'outstanding' win
WHUFC.com
Manager Sam Allardyce paid tribute to an outstanding finale at the Boleyn
Ground against Spurs
03.05.2014
Sam Allardyce hailed the perfect end to West Ham United's home Barclays
Premier League campaign, as an outstanding Hammers performance paved the way
for a third successive win against Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday. Stewart
Downing's enterprising run ended with the dismissal of Younes Kaboul after
just 25 minutes, as the West Ham wideman was denied a clear sight of goal.
The opener followed shortly after, when Andy Carroll's header glanced off
Harry Kane on its way in, before Downing himself joined the party with his
measured free-kick finding the bottom corner. That the hosts failed to add
to their tally after the interval owed much to Hugo Lloris, but his heroics
were hardly about to detract from a fantastic afternoon at the Boleyn
Ground. As Big Sam told West Ham TV: "Outstanding! From start to finish
everybody really enjoyed the day. I think the players were a little nervous,
which was a good thing, I think, as that gave them the edge to go out and
perform like they did against a very good Tottenham side. "Even before they
got the player sent off, we had such a positive start in threatening the
opposition's back four, where we felt that their weakness would be. Of
course, when Stewart Downing got through one-on-one, he was going to get a
shot off on the 'keeper. It's definitely a free-kick and definitely a
sending off. "Had Tottenham not had Lloris on the pitch, I might be sat here
with four or five goals. But certainly two was more than enough at
half-time. Pity we didn't get any more, but a fantastic performance overall
and a positive end to the season [at home.] "The squad has had to stick
together through tough times, but on Saturday, to finish off at home with a
win, against our old rivals, our third win on the trot against them, it
really couldn't have finished any better. We did want to do better in
between times, but we're safe, we're in the Premier League, we can grow, we
can build, we can hopefully get better."
Despite having had to endure four successive defeats beforehand, Big Sam
explained that his pre-match message was an entirely positive one, reminding
the players of their prior victories at Spurs. "I told them that it's
time they showed a bit more devilment and a bit more of the passion, as well
as the football and put that into the game," he added. "I asked them to get
on the front foot and really commit to the opportunity to try and beat
Tottenham who are a big top-six side now, and spent big, big money last
year. "We know the success we had against them in the two games we played at
White Hart Lane. So we know how to beat them, because we've done it twice
before, let's make sure we go and do it again and, of course, we've done it
magnificently well."
Victory on Saturday means the Hammers can finally start putting plans into
action for next season, certain that the Club will dine at England's top
table for a third successive campaign. He continued: "We're in the Barclays
Premier League yet again and it's for me, the Joint-Chairmen and
Vice-Chairman Karren Brady to look at the overall picture of the Club. To
sit down and really get the plans underway for, firstly, the pre-season and
then the signings, or re-signing of players who are out of contract. "Then
the big one, new players, who are hopefully targeted and come in wanting to
play for West Ham. Hopefully by the start of next season, we'll have a
better squad than we have now."
But there is, of course, the small matter of a final-day trip to
title-chasing Manchester City still to come. West Ham fans can now head to
the Etihad Stadium carefree with Big Sam grateful for their immense backing
on Saturday. "From start to finish the fans had to plenty to support. When
they have plenty to support, they're thrilled with what they see, they're
behind the players and always have been. "We know that we don't have the
same thrills, the same excitement in professional football without an
atmosphere. The fans are a key element to that atmosphere and Saturday was a
fantastic atmosphere all the way around the ground. "Everybody will be
looking forward to the Man City game, there's no real pressure on us, apart
from being as professional as we possibly can and trying to stop Manchester
City's big day."
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West Ham 2 Tottenham 0
3 May 2014
Last updated at 15:08
By Mandeep Sanghera
BBC Sport
West Ham ensured their Premier League safety as they ended a run of four
successive defeats with a comfortable win over 10-man Tottenham. Spurs had
Younes Kaboul sent off for a foul on Stewart Downing before the hosts took
the lead when Andy Carroll's header went in off Harry Kane. Downing extended
the Hammers' lead with a low 20-yard free-kick. Spurs keeper Hugo Lloris
kept the score down as the dominant Hammers eased the pressure on manager
Sam Allardyce. The West Ham fans have voiced their displeasure at
Allardyce's style of play and their team's results, but Upton Park was
joyful following a third win over Spurs this season. Carroll's aerial
prowess was a key element of his side's victory, while the visitors did not
help themselves with some questionable defending. And the defeat will not
have boosted Tim Sherwood's hopes of keeping his job at White Hart Lane,
though the club this week denied claims they had enquired about Ajax coach
Frank de Boer's availability. A top-four place was out of the visiting
side's reach before kick-off, and they are still not assured of a Europa
League spot with Manchester United able to overhaul them. "There was a time
you thought West Ham's season would not end like this, with the home crowd
on their feet giving Sam Allardyce's team a generous round of applause. A
disappointing day for Spurs, who never recovered from the sending-off of
Younes Kaboul."
But they started promisingly as a well-worked counter-attack involving Kane,
Gylfi Sigurdsson and Christian Eriksen ended with Emmanuel Adebayor's
first-time shot being saved by Adrian. However, the home side were causing
problems of their own as they had a penalty appeal for a Michael Dawson
handball turned down before a mis-hit Guy Demel shot looped onto the Spurs
crossbar. And the balance tipped firmly in West Ham's favour on 24 minutes,
when the visitors were reduced to 10 men. Downing was racing clean through
on goal when he was tripped just outside the area by Kaboul, who was sent
off by referee Phil Dowd. From the resulting free-kick, Lloris pulled off a
stunning save to palm Carroll's ferocious strike wide, conceding the corner
from which the home side scored. Carroll's header at the far post went in
off the head of Kane, who was immediately replaced by central defender Vlad
Chiriches. If Sherwood was unhappy with the first of the hosts' goals, he
will have been even more annoyed by the second. After midfielder Mark Noble
was fouled on the edge of the area, Downing's free-kick went through the
Spurs wall and into the bottom corner. And only Lloris prevented Spurs from
suffering a heavier defeat. The France international kept out a Mohamed
Diame overhead kick before thwarting Kevin Nolan at close range after the
midfielder latched onto Carroll's flick-on. Tottenham took until stoppage
time to significantly trouble Adrian, who excellently tipped over a Danny
Rose strike.
Tottenham manager Tim Sherwood: "I think the referee got the red card
decision right. Younes was doing his best to get back at the attacker and
I'm not sure Michael Dawson got round enough to prevent the red card. "It
was a spirited performance from the boys in the second half. We had a few
chances and if we had taken one of them it could have been an edgy finish.
"He (Lloris) is so consistent with his performances. No matter what is going
on around him he seems to just worry about his game and he is top class."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
World Cup 2014: Andy Carroll talked up by Sam Allardyce
BBC.co.uk
West Ham manager Sam Allardyce would be "absolutely delighted" if striker
Andy Carroll is part of Roy Hodgson's England World Cup squad this summer.
The 25-year-old's aerial prowess was a key factor in the Hammers' 2-0
Premier League victory over Tottenham. Carroll has scored twice in 15
outings since returning from injury in January. "If Roy decides to take him
along, Andy would be absolutely delighted and so would I. He is as fresh as
a daisy," said Allardyce. "He hasn't had much football this season so it
wouldn't harm him." Carroll, capped nine times, was a constant threat to the
Tottenham defence on Saturday, and his far-post header went in off Harry
Kane to give the Hammers the lead. Stewart Downing's 20-yard free-kick
sealed victory, securing his side's Premier League status with a game to
spare. "Andy has put in a performance that got us rolling. It was a
fantastic header for the goal," said Allardyce.
"His overall performance has to come together, and it came together against
Tottenham."
The Hammers boss said there is more to come from Carroll, and hopes he
impresses in their final game of the season, at Manchester City on Sunday,
11 May.
Hodgson will name his 23-man World Cup squad, plus seven standby players,
the following day. Allardyce said: "If he doesn't quite get there, he can
rest this summer and look forward to a full pre-season. "When you miss a
full pre-season, and miss the first half of the season, it is always very
difficult to get the top edge of your performance but he's been getting
there week-in and week-out." Victory, which ended a run of four successive
defeats, helped ease the pressure on Allardyce. "We played really good
football," he said. "For the majority of the game we outplayed Tottenham and
gave a very good account of ourselves and the football we can play. "When
players are in top form like they were against Tottenham, they get the ball
down, they have got confidence and pass it to each other. That's what you
want."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Allardyce on... Tottenham
KUMB.com
Filed: Saturday, 3rd May 2014
By: Staff Writer
Sam Allardyce was in upbeat mood following today's early kick-off -
justifiably so, having secured an unprecedented third win in a season over
our dear friends from North London. Here's his post-match press conference,
in full...
Sam, you love a stat. Three wins against Tottenham in three games this
season might be one of your favourites - and the fans' favourite, perhaps?
There's no doubt about that, particularly for the fans. I remember our first
victory, 3-0 at Spurs a long time ago and then in the Capital One Cup. I
thought it would be wonderful if we could do the treble, particularly as we
haven't won for four games - and we did it for a third occasion in our last
home game with an excellent performance from all the players.
I know they went down to ten men, but to take full advantage of that [made
it] a fantastic day for us. A great performance to finish the season in our
last home game and to send the fans home happy. They were right behind the
team from start to finish because they knew the team was playing well and
deserved the victory.
In the end, but for Lloris I think it would have been far more than 2-0 -
but 2-0 is more than satisfying for us against a team who are fighting to be
in the Champions League, fighting to be in that area. To manage to beat them
here again and do the double over them is a great thing for us.
Moods can change very quickly in the game. How nice to be clapping fans at
the end and getting clapped by them?
There's no distinction; one week it's not so good when you're not playing
well and people sound their disapproval. They're quite entitled to do that.
But, they do get behind you when they've got something to get behind. They
didn't stop singing all the way through the game today.
They players have enjoyed being here and they've enjoyed playing on this
stage today, which is what we want them to do. We don't want them to be
fearful when they go out. They gave a wholehearted performance that lifted
everybody in the last game of the season. We couldn't have asked for
anything more than we got today.
Their confidence was very good being on the back of four defeats which can
sometimes affect the team, but they didn't show any fear today?
No they didn't. It was a great start to the game; I always think if the
first part of the game starts well for you it puts the players on the front
foot and all the fears they may have had before are dismissed. They say
we're right in this game, we're all playing well, we've got our first tackle
in or we've got our first pass off, our first cross or shot, and that puts
you in a better frame of mind.
I think we continued from that and got the sending off - deservedly so,
because Stewart [Downing] was going one-on-one with the goalkeeper. I
thought it was in the box and it was going to be a penalty but it wasn't.
The good thing for us was taking advantage of that within the space of two
minutes, getting that very important goal.
From then we really took the game to Tottenham and scoring the goal just
before half time was critical as well. We were even more relaxed and created
even more chances in the second half, but sadly we didn't convert any
because of that goalkeeper. He must have pulled off at least five or six
top-class saves today to prevent Tottenham from conceding more goals.
You said you would wait until you were safe before starting to make
preparations for next season. Does that start immediately now?
Well some preparations are in place without being secured, particularly
pre-season. Players contracts will be discussed between me and the owners as
quickly as possible and then we'll talk to the players. Then it's
recruitment time, who can we find and how we can make the squad better and
in what areas. That's the ultimate goal for me through the summer months.
Do you expect to be busy?
I'm never not busy during the transfer window, don't worry about that! It's
probably the only time I quite like social media, emailing and Skypeing -
stuff like that - because you don't have to do it in your office like the
old days, you can do it whilst you're sat in the sun. When needed you can
come back to the club and meet whoever you need to meet, talk to whoever you
need to talk to and hopefully finalise as many deals as quickly as possible.
I say that every year, but we'll still be waiting on players by the end of
August, there's probably no doubt about that, but as long as we get them in
the end and they're of the right quality then that'll be fine.
Ravel [Morrison] was here today, is he going to be available for QPR's
play-offs?
Yes, we did the loan deal with Harry. He's changed the team an awful lot
today to rest his key players for the first play-offs, by the looks of it.
If Ravel does a good job he's back with us next year, he'll have a big
pre-season with us and we'll see where we go from there.
Are West Ham claiming that first goal for Andy Carroll?
I would! Whether he'll get it or not, I don't know. If I was Andy I would as
well!
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham boss Sam Allardyce hails welcome win over Tottenham
Last Updated: 03/05/14 5:11pm
SSN
West Ham boss Sam Allardyce saluted a 'fantastic day' for the club as they
ended their four-game losing streak with a 2-0 victory over 10-man Tottenham
at Upton Park. The Hammers boss acknowledged in his programme notes that
this has been a "testing campaign", adding he can understand the supporters'
frustration having failed to pick up a point in April. That run saw the
pressure mount on Allardyce, who was subjected to chants and banners during
last weekend's defeat at West Brom. Those same supporters, however, will
have been in a better mood on Saturday as a Harry Kane own goal shortly
after Younes Kaboul saw red and Stewart Downing's free-kick saw West Ham run
out 2-0 victors against Spurs, their third success of the season over the
north London club. "One week you are not playing so well and people sound
off their disapproval, which they are quite entitled to do, like I've always
said that," Allardyce said. "But they do get behind you when they've got
something to get behind. They don't stop singing, the players enjoyed being
here, they enjoyed playing on this stage today, which is what we want them
to do. We don't want to be fearful when we go out and they really gave a
wholehearted performance to lift everybody today on the last game of the
season. We couldn't have asked for anything more than what we got today. "I
thought it would be wonderful if we could do the treble, particularly under
the circumstances as we haven't won for four games. To do it for the third
occasion in our last home game and do it with an excellent performance by
all the players. "I know they went down to 10 men, but to take full
advantage of that as well was a fantastic day for us, a great performance to
finish the season here and send the fans home happy. "The fans were right
behind the team from start to finish because they knew the team was playing
well and deserved a victory in the end. "But for Hugo Lloris, I think we
would have had for more than 2-0. That is more than satisfying for us,
though, against a team fighting to be in the Champions League, fighting to
get in that area."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham claim 2-0 win over Tottenham at Upton Park
Last Updated: 03/05/14 2:56pm
SSN
West Ham returned to winning ways as they recorded a 2-0 victory over
Tottenham in their final home match of the season. The Hammers ended a run
of four successive defeats with a comfortable success over their capital
rivals at Upton Park.
Best of the match
Man of the match: Hugo Lloris. The Tottenham keeper made a series of
outstanding saves to keep the scoreline to a respectable level.
Moment of the match: Younes Kaboul's first-half red card look to be a
correct decision but it undoubtedly turned the game in West Ham's favour.
Attempt of the match: West Ham striker Andy Carroll smashed a free-kick that
was arrowing into the top corner before it was tipped over by Lloris.
Save of the match: Lloris initially did well to punch clear a cross from
Stewart Downing under pressure, and then made a superb low save to his left
to keep out a follow-up shot from Matt Taylor.
Talking point: This win for West Ham has made them safe and improved Sam
Allardyce's position. However, for Spurs counterpart Tim Sherwood, it seems
almost certain he will be replaced at the end of the season.
Goal of the game: Stewart Downing drilled home a low free kick from 20 yards
- his first goal for the Hammers.
The game turned midway through the first half when Younes Kaboul was given a
straight red card for bringing down Stewart Downing when he was through on
goal. The resulting free-kick on the edge of the box from Andy Carroll was
brilliantly tipped over by Hugo Lloris, but the England striker was on hand
to head home the resulting corner, albeit with a little help via Harry
Kane's inadvertent flick-on. The second arrived on the stroke of half-time
and this time Downing was the scorer as he claimed his first goal in West
Ham colours as he curled a free-kick through the Tottenham wall and past
Lloris. Had it not been for Lloris the scoreline could and should have been
greater as he produced wonderful stops from Matt Taylor and Mohamed Diame.
Tim Sherwood's side began well enough, with Kane close to an opening goal
after 52 seconds when Adrian's rushed clearance ricocheted off him and spun
wide. Emmanuel Adebayor was unable to cap a wonderful, flowing team move by
striking tamely at Adrian soon after, before Carroll saw appeals for
handball against Kane fall on deaf ears.
Michael Dawson appeared to then handle from the resulting corner, from which
the ball broke to Guy Demel and his looping strike came off the bar.
Adrian saved a Paulinho header on goal and Downing blazed over as play swung
from end-to-end, until the dimensions changed in West Ham's favour in the
25th minute. A wicked deflection saw the ball looped over Spurs backline
into the path of Downing, who, having left Danny Rose in his wake, continued
on goal until being bundled over by Kaboul. Referee Phil Dowd deemed him to
be the last man and showed a straight red card, with Lloris having to be at
his best to stop Carroll firing home the free-kick. The ball went out for a
corner and when Mark Noble swung it across, West Ham ended their 257-minute
wait for a goal, with Carroll's header going in via a deflection off Kane.
It was a horrible moment for the 20-year-old forward, who was replaced
moments later by defender Vlad Chiriches in a bid to stem West Ham's
increasing momentum. George McCartney came close to netting at the backpost
before Rose almost put into his own goal, with Lloris then doing
exceptionally to turn Matt Taylor's goalbound strike around the post. The
France goalkeeper could only do so much, though, and his team-mates let him
down as West Ham doubled their advantage a minute before the break. Downing
hit a reasonable free-kick that would have hit the wall had Adebayor and
Paulinho not parted, allowing the ball to sneak through past the Spurs
goalkeeper. It was a shocking goal which was almost added to by a Carroll
volley in first-half stoppage time.
West Ham continued strongly after the restart as Mo Diame's overhead kick
produced an exquisite save from Lloris, who did well to stop Kevin Nolan
scoring the follow-up before Taylor curled just wide. The Spurs goalkeeper's
one-man stand continued as Carroll flicked the ball on to Nolan, with the
onrushing goalkeeper spreading himself to block behind. Adrian fumbled a
Christian Eriksen cross in a rare threatening moment for Lloris'
counterpart, with Sherwood bringing on Sandro and Roberto Soldado in a bid
to change the dynamics of the match. The latter quickly had an impact,
receiving a booking after kicking Diame and manhandling Nolan before
striking across the face of goal. Sandro was also at the heart of things in
the closing stages, blocking a shot, picking up a booking and then seeing
appeals for a handball against Taylor ignored. Adrian did wonderfully to tip
over a late Rose strike, which saw West Ham end a 10-match wait for a clean
sheet.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
MATCH REPORT: WEST HAM 2 SPURS 0 - CAN WE PLAY YOU EVERY WEEK?
By Iain Dale 3 May 2014 at 15:54
West Ham Till I Die
"A bad day for the Iain Dale agenda" chirrups a tweet from the only blogger
who didn't want to support the Allardyce poll. What a prat. If I have an
agenda, it is to see West Ham win and play attractive football. Just like
they did today. A great performance, a great team performance and some
superb individual performances. But it was against a team which played for
65 minutes with ten players, so let's not run away with the thought that
this was necessarily a portent of things to come. However, if the board are
judging Sam Allardyce over the last two games of the season, anyone would
have to admit that he got off to a good start.
Having said that the performance might have looked better than it actually
was, because it was against ten men, let's not be churlish. Even before
Kaboul was sent off We looked by far the better team. We had more ideas with
Andy Carroll looking particularly dangerous. From an attacking performance
viewpoint it was one of our strongest of the season with Downing causing
havoc and Diame having a strong game on the right. Carroll won everything in
the air and even with two defenders on him Spurs just didn't know how to
cope with his physical strength. He will no doubt claim the first goal but I
suspect it will go down as an OG. But Carroll could have had another couple
were it not for the outstanding performance of Lloris, the goalkeeper. He
saved at least three goals which some other keepers might well have let in.
In the midfield we looked incredibly strong. Noble put in a performance
which in any other game would have won man of the match, while Matt Taylor
could have nabbed a goal and also returned to the side with an impressive
showing. And wasn't it good to see Stewart Downing celebrating his goal as
if he had won the lottery. It's his first in 44 games. Let's hope he can nab
another next week.
Defensively, apart from the odd shaky moment, we were rarely threatened.
Adrian looked somewhat nervy at times, but at the end of the game pulled off
a tremendous save from Danny Rose. I think it came about five minutes from
the end, and could well have given Spurs the impetus they needed for an
equaliser.
Someone suggested I should re-run the poll after this game and it might have
a very different result. I doubt it very much to be honest. Sensible people
judge a manager on his record over a prolonged period of time. You don't
just do it on a game to game basis. I couldn't be more delighted if Sam
Allardyce stayed as manager and each week we put in this kind of
performance. And if he stays, that will be the Board's hope. Can I see it
happening? In all honesty, no. But I'd be very happy to be proved 100%
wrong.
Finally, let's bask in the fact that this season we have beaten Spurs three
times with an aggregate score of 7-1. I wonder how many years it will take
for us to repeat that particular feat!
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers run riot to secure Premier League spot as Younes Kaboul sees red
May 03, 2014 22:30 By Steve Stammers
The Mirror
Once again, Tottenham Hotspur came to the rescue of Sam Allardyce. The West
Ham manager was under severe pressure going into the London derby that has
always had a special importance to those in the East End. Four successive
defeats had a section of support calling for Allardyce to move on. The
banner saying as much at The Hawthorns eight days ago was not scribbled in
hasty fashion because West Bromwich Albion were ahead. If ever Allardyce
needed a win it was yesterday - and Tottenham duly obliged, just as they had
twice before this season in the Premier League in October and the Capital
One Cup in December. They produced a limp and fragmented performance that
was a reflection of the uncertainty that has surrounded the club since it
became public knowledge that Tim Sherwood's tenure as manager would be
strictly short-term. Younes Kaboul played his part. After 24 minutes, as a
rejuvenated Stewart Downing accelerated towards the Tottenham goal, Kaboul
brought him down. Referee Phil Dowd reflected for a moment and showed Kaboul
a red card.
"The right decision, I am fine with it," said Sherwood. He was also fine
with the acrobatic save from the magnificent Hugo Lloris as Andy Carroll
blasted the free-kick goalwards. But the reprieve lasted less than a minute.
The highly-impressive Mark Noble took the resulting corner, Carroll headed
it back into the danger area and Harry Kane's involuntary touch took it past
Lloris and into the net. But if fortune was not hiding with that goal, the
second on the stroke of half-time was the product of blatant cowardice.
Downing lined up a free-kick some 20 yards out and the Tottenham wall was in
place. But as the shot came in, Paulinho and Emmanuel Adebayor both turned
sideways to avoid contact with the ball which flew past Lloris. In years to
come, Paulinho and Adebayor will likely collect medals. It is safe to say
that on yesterday's evidence, none will be for valour. "Not ideal, it wasn't
great" was the verdict of Sherwood of the defending of the free-kick.
Something of an under-statement, that. And it emerged that Sherwood pointed
out the error of their ways to the players afterwards in a dressing room
inquest. "I spoke to them and pointed out what an error it was. I said that
if the ball hits you in the stomach, it hurts when you go 2-0 down more than
it hurts when you get a ball in the stomach. That hurts for about 30
seconds. "It was always going to be difficult here but I thought we started
alright. The crowd were maybe a bit edgy and waiting for them to slip up. "
The atmosphere may have indeed changed if Adebayor had shown more conviction
with his finish when he through on goal from a Christian Eriksen pass. But a
lack of conviction was evident all afternoon from the Togo international.
"The game changed on the red card," said Sherwood who could at least rely on
Lloris. Tottenham may well want to recruit in the close season, at both
managerial and playing levels. The priority, however, must be to keep
Lloris. But for him, the score could have reached embarrassing proportions.
"He is top drawer," said Sherwood. "People say he wasn't the same after he
was kicked on the head in the game at Everton but that is crap. He doesn't
make many mistakes."
Unlike many of those in front of him with exceptions like Michael Dawson,
Danny Rose and the gifted Eriksen.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Man United's loss could be QPR play-off gain - Redknapp
May 03, 2014 23:00 By Yann Tear 0 Comments
Harry Redknapp is tipping Ravel Morrison to have a big say in QPR's play-off
ambitions. The former Man United midfielder may have been seen as unreliable
by Sir Alex Ferguson and surplus to requirements at West Ham this season,
but the Rangers boss has faith in the 21-year-old. And he believes his
unpredictable talents could take the Hoops back to the Premier League. "He's
going to be an important player for us in the play-offs," said Redknapp.
"Ravel's done very well for us. We've been pleased with him. He's a real
talent. He's got the ability to become a top player, as long as he keeps
focused. "The ability's up there with the best in the country really, in
terms of what he can do. "He's a smashing boy. I've found him a nice kid.
He's not been a minute's problem. "Before I took him, I spoke to [manager]
Lee Clark at Birmingham and he loved him when he had him last year. "Sam
[Allardyce at West Ham] liked him. I think he just felt that he'd gone down
another road and he wasn't going to play so he let him come on loan and I
was grateful for that. "Hopefully he's got a great future. I'd love to see
him do well."
Asked about whether Morrison could one day feature for England, Redknapp
said: "You hope so, you just don't know. It's up to Ravel. He's got to make
sure he keeps his eye on the job at hand."
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WHUFC.com
Two first-half goals see the Hammers secure a third win of the season over
Tottenham Hotspur
03.05.2014
West Ham United 2-0 Tottenham Hotspur
Barclays Premier League
West Ham United completed a famous hat-trick over Tottenham Hotspur on
Saturday, as a Harry Kane own goal and Stewart Downing's first for the
Hammers proved plenty to see off ten-man Spurs in the Barclays Premier
League. After Younes Kaboul had seen red for upending Downing when through
on goal, Kane diverted Andy Carroll's header past Hugo Lloris, before
Downing doubled the lead with a well-placed free-kick. But for the
outstanding Lloris, it would surely have been more, as the three points
rubber stamp West Ham's place in the top flight. Sam Allardyce had made just
one change to the side edged out by West Bromwich Albion, with Matt Taylor
replacing Matt Jarvis and Mohamed Diame, in turn, reverting to a wide
midfield role. There was to be an early scare for the hosts, as Kane charged
down Adrian's clearance, though the rebound flew well wide. At the other
end, Winston Reid collected Carroll's knockdown, but could only hook into
Lloris' arms. Back came Spurs, led by Christian Eriksen, who fed Emmanuel
Adebayor, only to see the No10 sidefoot tamely at Adrian. Paulinho, too, hit
the target, but his header from a Kyle Naughton centre was straight at the
Hammers custodian. Moments later and Downing set off down the right, cut
inside, before screwing an effort well wide of the target. A sign of things
to come, as it proved. With 25 minutes gone, the winger beat Danny Rose to a
long ball and skipped across Kaboul, who sent the Hammers man tumbling. Phil
Dowd took his time, before giving the Frenchman his marching orders. Carroll
thumped the resulting free-kick goalwards, forcing Spurs' keeper into an
excellent stop high to his right. There would be no escape, however, as
Carroll met Noble's corner and watched as his header glanced off Kane's head
and past Lloris' despairing dive. The chances continued to come for the
hosts, with Matt Taylor's volley looking destined for the bottom corner, but
for the fingertip intervention of Lloris. But, down to his left once more,
Lloris was powerless to prevent the second. After Michael Dawson had felled
Noble on the edge of the box, Downing's free-kick snuck through the wall,
between Paulinho and Adebayor, as the No23 celebrated his first goal for the
Club.
West Ham threatened to make it three soon after the restart, but were
repeatedly denied by the excellent Lloris. An airborne Diame saw his
acrobatic effort repelled by France's No1, before Taylor slotted the rebound
just wide of the upright. With the hour approaching, skipper Kevin Nolan
went close too. Latching on to a Carroll header, he shot on the turn, with
Lloris somehow able to smother and divert it behind for a corner. In
fairness, Spurs grew into proceedings thereafter, although neither
substitute Roberto Soldado nor Aaron Lennon were able to trouble Adrian.
England frontman Carroll and captain Nolan were withdrawn late on to
rapturous Boleyn Ground applause, as the Hammers looked to round off their
home campaign in style. Though Rose very nearly halved the deficit late on,
Adrian's fabulous stop ensured there would be no grandstand finish.
West Ham United: Adrian; Demel, Tomkins, Reid, McCartney; Downing, Noble,
Nolan (Jarvis 86), Taylor, Diame; Carroll (C Cole 84)
Subs not used: Jaaskelainen, Armero, Vaz Te, Collins, Nocerino
Goals: Kane og 27 , Downing 44
Tottenham Hotspur: Lloris; Naughton, Dawson, Kaboul, Rose; Lennon, Paulinho
(Sandro), Sigurdsson (Soldado 66), Eriksen; Adebayor, Kane (Chirices 28).
Subs not used: Friedel, Fryers, Pritchard, Bentaleb
Booked: Naughton, Dawson, Sandro, Soldado
Sent off: Kaboul
Referee: Phil Dowd
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Carroll thrilled with derby success
WHUFC.com
Andy Carroll may have missed the first two Spurs wins this season, but made
his mark on Saturday
03.05.2014
Andy Carroll was thrilled to play his part as West Ham United completed
their Tottenham treble on Saturday. The No9 missed out earlier this season
when the Hammers won at White Hart Lane in both league and cup, but made
sure he had an impact at the Boleyn Ground as Sam Allardyce's men finished
their home programme in style. Carroll's 27th minute header flicked off
Spurs man Harry Kane's head on its way past Hugo Lloris to give West Ham the
lead, and he caused centre halves Michael Dawson and Vlad Chiriches no end
of problems with a dominant display. The three point haul was no less than
the Hammers deserved and Carroll admitted that the prospect of beating the
north Londoners for a third time this season was all the motivation they
needed. He said: "The gaffer put it in our heads that if we beat them for
the third time we'd be setting a record, so I think we gave it a little
extra for that and it showed. The performance today was fantastic and we
deserved the three points. "The fans were fantastic and it was great to win
the last game of the season at home for them. The fans gave us a big lift,
and we played the football we know we can play - hopefully we can take that
into next season. "Even before [Kaboul's] sending off I thought we were
dominating and I don't think they caused us any problems. We were confident
all the way through the game and it was great to score so soon after the red
card. "I'm going to claim the goal, every striker would, especially as I
haven't scored too many this season. We'll have to watch it back, but I'll
claim it!"
The Hammers also ensured mathematical safety with the three-point haul, and
Carroll was glad that they finished the job themselves. He added: "It was
very important to make sure we ended here with a result. After all the work
we put in it would have been a shame to end with six games without a win.
"We've put a stop to that, we've got one more left and hopefully we can do
something at Man City. "It's been tough throughout the season, but we've
worked hard. We're in the Premier League for next season and that's all that
matters really."
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Big Sam salutes 'outstanding' win
WHUFC.com
Manager Sam Allardyce paid tribute to an outstanding finale at the Boleyn
Ground against Spurs
03.05.2014
Sam Allardyce hailed the perfect end to West Ham United's home Barclays
Premier League campaign, as an outstanding Hammers performance paved the way
for a third successive win against Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday. Stewart
Downing's enterprising run ended with the dismissal of Younes Kaboul after
just 25 minutes, as the West Ham wideman was denied a clear sight of goal.
The opener followed shortly after, when Andy Carroll's header glanced off
Harry Kane on its way in, before Downing himself joined the party with his
measured free-kick finding the bottom corner. That the hosts failed to add
to their tally after the interval owed much to Hugo Lloris, but his heroics
were hardly about to detract from a fantastic afternoon at the Boleyn
Ground. As Big Sam told West Ham TV: "Outstanding! From start to finish
everybody really enjoyed the day. I think the players were a little nervous,
which was a good thing, I think, as that gave them the edge to go out and
perform like they did against a very good Tottenham side. "Even before they
got the player sent off, we had such a positive start in threatening the
opposition's back four, where we felt that their weakness would be. Of
course, when Stewart Downing got through one-on-one, he was going to get a
shot off on the 'keeper. It's definitely a free-kick and definitely a
sending off. "Had Tottenham not had Lloris on the pitch, I might be sat here
with four or five goals. But certainly two was more than enough at
half-time. Pity we didn't get any more, but a fantastic performance overall
and a positive end to the season [at home.] "The squad has had to stick
together through tough times, but on Saturday, to finish off at home with a
win, against our old rivals, our third win on the trot against them, it
really couldn't have finished any better. We did want to do better in
between times, but we're safe, we're in the Premier League, we can grow, we
can build, we can hopefully get better."
Despite having had to endure four successive defeats beforehand, Big Sam
explained that his pre-match message was an entirely positive one, reminding
the players of their prior victories at Spurs. "I told them that it's
time they showed a bit more devilment and a bit more of the passion, as well
as the football and put that into the game," he added. "I asked them to get
on the front foot and really commit to the opportunity to try and beat
Tottenham who are a big top-six side now, and spent big, big money last
year. "We know the success we had against them in the two games we played at
White Hart Lane. So we know how to beat them, because we've done it twice
before, let's make sure we go and do it again and, of course, we've done it
magnificently well."
Victory on Saturday means the Hammers can finally start putting plans into
action for next season, certain that the Club will dine at England's top
table for a third successive campaign. He continued: "We're in the Barclays
Premier League yet again and it's for me, the Joint-Chairmen and
Vice-Chairman Karren Brady to look at the overall picture of the Club. To
sit down and really get the plans underway for, firstly, the pre-season and
then the signings, or re-signing of players who are out of contract. "Then
the big one, new players, who are hopefully targeted and come in wanting to
play for West Ham. Hopefully by the start of next season, we'll have a
better squad than we have now."
But there is, of course, the small matter of a final-day trip to
title-chasing Manchester City still to come. West Ham fans can now head to
the Etihad Stadium carefree with Big Sam grateful for their immense backing
on Saturday. "From start to finish the fans had to plenty to support. When
they have plenty to support, they're thrilled with what they see, they're
behind the players and always have been. "We know that we don't have the
same thrills, the same excitement in professional football without an
atmosphere. The fans are a key element to that atmosphere and Saturday was a
fantastic atmosphere all the way around the ground. "Everybody will be
looking forward to the Man City game, there's no real pressure on us, apart
from being as professional as we possibly can and trying to stop Manchester
City's big day."
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West Ham 2 Tottenham 0
3 May 2014
Last updated at 15:08
By Mandeep Sanghera
BBC Sport
West Ham ensured their Premier League safety as they ended a run of four
successive defeats with a comfortable win over 10-man Tottenham. Spurs had
Younes Kaboul sent off for a foul on Stewart Downing before the hosts took
the lead when Andy Carroll's header went in off Harry Kane. Downing extended
the Hammers' lead with a low 20-yard free-kick. Spurs keeper Hugo Lloris
kept the score down as the dominant Hammers eased the pressure on manager
Sam Allardyce. The West Ham fans have voiced their displeasure at
Allardyce's style of play and their team's results, but Upton Park was
joyful following a third win over Spurs this season. Carroll's aerial
prowess was a key element of his side's victory, while the visitors did not
help themselves with some questionable defending. And the defeat will not
have boosted Tim Sherwood's hopes of keeping his job at White Hart Lane,
though the club this week denied claims they had enquired about Ajax coach
Frank de Boer's availability. A top-four place was out of the visiting
side's reach before kick-off, and they are still not assured of a Europa
League spot with Manchester United able to overhaul them. "There was a time
you thought West Ham's season would not end like this, with the home crowd
on their feet giving Sam Allardyce's team a generous round of applause. A
disappointing day for Spurs, who never recovered from the sending-off of
Younes Kaboul."
But they started promisingly as a well-worked counter-attack involving Kane,
Gylfi Sigurdsson and Christian Eriksen ended with Emmanuel Adebayor's
first-time shot being saved by Adrian. However, the home side were causing
problems of their own as they had a penalty appeal for a Michael Dawson
handball turned down before a mis-hit Guy Demel shot looped onto the Spurs
crossbar. And the balance tipped firmly in West Ham's favour on 24 minutes,
when the visitors were reduced to 10 men. Downing was racing clean through
on goal when he was tripped just outside the area by Kaboul, who was sent
off by referee Phil Dowd. From the resulting free-kick, Lloris pulled off a
stunning save to palm Carroll's ferocious strike wide, conceding the corner
from which the home side scored. Carroll's header at the far post went in
off the head of Kane, who was immediately replaced by central defender Vlad
Chiriches. If Sherwood was unhappy with the first of the hosts' goals, he
will have been even more annoyed by the second. After midfielder Mark Noble
was fouled on the edge of the area, Downing's free-kick went through the
Spurs wall and into the bottom corner. And only Lloris prevented Spurs from
suffering a heavier defeat. The France international kept out a Mohamed
Diame overhead kick before thwarting Kevin Nolan at close range after the
midfielder latched onto Carroll's flick-on. Tottenham took until stoppage
time to significantly trouble Adrian, who excellently tipped over a Danny
Rose strike.
Tottenham manager Tim Sherwood: "I think the referee got the red card
decision right. Younes was doing his best to get back at the attacker and
I'm not sure Michael Dawson got round enough to prevent the red card. "It
was a spirited performance from the boys in the second half. We had a few
chances and if we had taken one of them it could have been an edgy finish.
"He (Lloris) is so consistent with his performances. No matter what is going
on around him he seems to just worry about his game and he is top class."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
World Cup 2014: Andy Carroll talked up by Sam Allardyce
BBC.co.uk
West Ham manager Sam Allardyce would be "absolutely delighted" if striker
Andy Carroll is part of Roy Hodgson's England World Cup squad this summer.
The 25-year-old's aerial prowess was a key factor in the Hammers' 2-0
Premier League victory over Tottenham. Carroll has scored twice in 15
outings since returning from injury in January. "If Roy decides to take him
along, Andy would be absolutely delighted and so would I. He is as fresh as
a daisy," said Allardyce. "He hasn't had much football this season so it
wouldn't harm him." Carroll, capped nine times, was a constant threat to the
Tottenham defence on Saturday, and his far-post header went in off Harry
Kane to give the Hammers the lead. Stewart Downing's 20-yard free-kick
sealed victory, securing his side's Premier League status with a game to
spare. "Andy has put in a performance that got us rolling. It was a
fantastic header for the goal," said Allardyce.
"His overall performance has to come together, and it came together against
Tottenham."
The Hammers boss said there is more to come from Carroll, and hopes he
impresses in their final game of the season, at Manchester City on Sunday,
11 May.
Hodgson will name his 23-man World Cup squad, plus seven standby players,
the following day. Allardyce said: "If he doesn't quite get there, he can
rest this summer and look forward to a full pre-season. "When you miss a
full pre-season, and miss the first half of the season, it is always very
difficult to get the top edge of your performance but he's been getting
there week-in and week-out." Victory, which ended a run of four successive
defeats, helped ease the pressure on Allardyce. "We played really good
football," he said. "For the majority of the game we outplayed Tottenham and
gave a very good account of ourselves and the football we can play. "When
players are in top form like they were against Tottenham, they get the ball
down, they have got confidence and pass it to each other. That's what you
want."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Allardyce on... Tottenham
KUMB.com
Filed: Saturday, 3rd May 2014
By: Staff Writer
Sam Allardyce was in upbeat mood following today's early kick-off -
justifiably so, having secured an unprecedented third win in a season over
our dear friends from North London. Here's his post-match press conference,
in full...
Sam, you love a stat. Three wins against Tottenham in three games this
season might be one of your favourites - and the fans' favourite, perhaps?
There's no doubt about that, particularly for the fans. I remember our first
victory, 3-0 at Spurs a long time ago and then in the Capital One Cup. I
thought it would be wonderful if we could do the treble, particularly as we
haven't won for four games - and we did it for a third occasion in our last
home game with an excellent performance from all the players.
I know they went down to ten men, but to take full advantage of that [made
it] a fantastic day for us. A great performance to finish the season in our
last home game and to send the fans home happy. They were right behind the
team from start to finish because they knew the team was playing well and
deserved the victory.
In the end, but for Lloris I think it would have been far more than 2-0 -
but 2-0 is more than satisfying for us against a team who are fighting to be
in the Champions League, fighting to be in that area. To manage to beat them
here again and do the double over them is a great thing for us.
Moods can change very quickly in the game. How nice to be clapping fans at
the end and getting clapped by them?
There's no distinction; one week it's not so good when you're not playing
well and people sound their disapproval. They're quite entitled to do that.
But, they do get behind you when they've got something to get behind. They
didn't stop singing all the way through the game today.
They players have enjoyed being here and they've enjoyed playing on this
stage today, which is what we want them to do. We don't want them to be
fearful when they go out. They gave a wholehearted performance that lifted
everybody in the last game of the season. We couldn't have asked for
anything more than we got today.
Their confidence was very good being on the back of four defeats which can
sometimes affect the team, but they didn't show any fear today?
No they didn't. It was a great start to the game; I always think if the
first part of the game starts well for you it puts the players on the front
foot and all the fears they may have had before are dismissed. They say
we're right in this game, we're all playing well, we've got our first tackle
in or we've got our first pass off, our first cross or shot, and that puts
you in a better frame of mind.
I think we continued from that and got the sending off - deservedly so,
because Stewart [Downing] was going one-on-one with the goalkeeper. I
thought it was in the box and it was going to be a penalty but it wasn't.
The good thing for us was taking advantage of that within the space of two
minutes, getting that very important goal.
From then we really took the game to Tottenham and scoring the goal just
before half time was critical as well. We were even more relaxed and created
even more chances in the second half, but sadly we didn't convert any
because of that goalkeeper. He must have pulled off at least five or six
top-class saves today to prevent Tottenham from conceding more goals.
You said you would wait until you were safe before starting to make
preparations for next season. Does that start immediately now?
Well some preparations are in place without being secured, particularly
pre-season. Players contracts will be discussed between me and the owners as
quickly as possible and then we'll talk to the players. Then it's
recruitment time, who can we find and how we can make the squad better and
in what areas. That's the ultimate goal for me through the summer months.
Do you expect to be busy?
I'm never not busy during the transfer window, don't worry about that! It's
probably the only time I quite like social media, emailing and Skypeing -
stuff like that - because you don't have to do it in your office like the
old days, you can do it whilst you're sat in the sun. When needed you can
come back to the club and meet whoever you need to meet, talk to whoever you
need to talk to and hopefully finalise as many deals as quickly as possible.
I say that every year, but we'll still be waiting on players by the end of
August, there's probably no doubt about that, but as long as we get them in
the end and they're of the right quality then that'll be fine.
Ravel [Morrison] was here today, is he going to be available for QPR's
play-offs?
Yes, we did the loan deal with Harry. He's changed the team an awful lot
today to rest his key players for the first play-offs, by the looks of it.
If Ravel does a good job he's back with us next year, he'll have a big
pre-season with us and we'll see where we go from there.
Are West Ham claiming that first goal for Andy Carroll?
I would! Whether he'll get it or not, I don't know. If I was Andy I would as
well!
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West Ham boss Sam Allardyce hails welcome win over Tottenham
Last Updated: 03/05/14 5:11pm
SSN
West Ham boss Sam Allardyce saluted a 'fantastic day' for the club as they
ended their four-game losing streak with a 2-0 victory over 10-man Tottenham
at Upton Park. The Hammers boss acknowledged in his programme notes that
this has been a "testing campaign", adding he can understand the supporters'
frustration having failed to pick up a point in April. That run saw the
pressure mount on Allardyce, who was subjected to chants and banners during
last weekend's defeat at West Brom. Those same supporters, however, will
have been in a better mood on Saturday as a Harry Kane own goal shortly
after Younes Kaboul saw red and Stewart Downing's free-kick saw West Ham run
out 2-0 victors against Spurs, their third success of the season over the
north London club. "One week you are not playing so well and people sound
off their disapproval, which they are quite entitled to do, like I've always
said that," Allardyce said. "But they do get behind you when they've got
something to get behind. They don't stop singing, the players enjoyed being
here, they enjoyed playing on this stage today, which is what we want them
to do. We don't want to be fearful when we go out and they really gave a
wholehearted performance to lift everybody today on the last game of the
season. We couldn't have asked for anything more than what we got today. "I
thought it would be wonderful if we could do the treble, particularly under
the circumstances as we haven't won for four games. To do it for the third
occasion in our last home game and do it with an excellent performance by
all the players. "I know they went down to 10 men, but to take full
advantage of that as well was a fantastic day for us, a great performance to
finish the season here and send the fans home happy. "The fans were right
behind the team from start to finish because they knew the team was playing
well and deserved a victory in the end. "But for Hugo Lloris, I think we
would have had for more than 2-0. That is more than satisfying for us,
though, against a team fighting to be in the Champions League, fighting to
get in that area."
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West Ham claim 2-0 win over Tottenham at Upton Park
Last Updated: 03/05/14 2:56pm
SSN
West Ham returned to winning ways as they recorded a 2-0 victory over
Tottenham in their final home match of the season. The Hammers ended a run
of four successive defeats with a comfortable success over their capital
rivals at Upton Park.
Best of the match
Man of the match: Hugo Lloris. The Tottenham keeper made a series of
outstanding saves to keep the scoreline to a respectable level.
Moment of the match: Younes Kaboul's first-half red card look to be a
correct decision but it undoubtedly turned the game in West Ham's favour.
Attempt of the match: West Ham striker Andy Carroll smashed a free-kick that
was arrowing into the top corner before it was tipped over by Lloris.
Save of the match: Lloris initially did well to punch clear a cross from
Stewart Downing under pressure, and then made a superb low save to his left
to keep out a follow-up shot from Matt Taylor.
Talking point: This win for West Ham has made them safe and improved Sam
Allardyce's position. However, for Spurs counterpart Tim Sherwood, it seems
almost certain he will be replaced at the end of the season.
Goal of the game: Stewart Downing drilled home a low free kick from 20 yards
- his first goal for the Hammers.
The game turned midway through the first half when Younes Kaboul was given a
straight red card for bringing down Stewart Downing when he was through on
goal. The resulting free-kick on the edge of the box from Andy Carroll was
brilliantly tipped over by Hugo Lloris, but the England striker was on hand
to head home the resulting corner, albeit with a little help via Harry
Kane's inadvertent flick-on. The second arrived on the stroke of half-time
and this time Downing was the scorer as he claimed his first goal in West
Ham colours as he curled a free-kick through the Tottenham wall and past
Lloris. Had it not been for Lloris the scoreline could and should have been
greater as he produced wonderful stops from Matt Taylor and Mohamed Diame.
Tim Sherwood's side began well enough, with Kane close to an opening goal
after 52 seconds when Adrian's rushed clearance ricocheted off him and spun
wide. Emmanuel Adebayor was unable to cap a wonderful, flowing team move by
striking tamely at Adrian soon after, before Carroll saw appeals for
handball against Kane fall on deaf ears.
Michael Dawson appeared to then handle from the resulting corner, from which
the ball broke to Guy Demel and his looping strike came off the bar.
Adrian saved a Paulinho header on goal and Downing blazed over as play swung
from end-to-end, until the dimensions changed in West Ham's favour in the
25th minute. A wicked deflection saw the ball looped over Spurs backline
into the path of Downing, who, having left Danny Rose in his wake, continued
on goal until being bundled over by Kaboul. Referee Phil Dowd deemed him to
be the last man and showed a straight red card, with Lloris having to be at
his best to stop Carroll firing home the free-kick. The ball went out for a
corner and when Mark Noble swung it across, West Ham ended their 257-minute
wait for a goal, with Carroll's header going in via a deflection off Kane.
It was a horrible moment for the 20-year-old forward, who was replaced
moments later by defender Vlad Chiriches in a bid to stem West Ham's
increasing momentum. George McCartney came close to netting at the backpost
before Rose almost put into his own goal, with Lloris then doing
exceptionally to turn Matt Taylor's goalbound strike around the post. The
France goalkeeper could only do so much, though, and his team-mates let him
down as West Ham doubled their advantage a minute before the break. Downing
hit a reasonable free-kick that would have hit the wall had Adebayor and
Paulinho not parted, allowing the ball to sneak through past the Spurs
goalkeeper. It was a shocking goal which was almost added to by a Carroll
volley in first-half stoppage time.
West Ham continued strongly after the restart as Mo Diame's overhead kick
produced an exquisite save from Lloris, who did well to stop Kevin Nolan
scoring the follow-up before Taylor curled just wide. The Spurs goalkeeper's
one-man stand continued as Carroll flicked the ball on to Nolan, with the
onrushing goalkeeper spreading himself to block behind. Adrian fumbled a
Christian Eriksen cross in a rare threatening moment for Lloris'
counterpart, with Sherwood bringing on Sandro and Roberto Soldado in a bid
to change the dynamics of the match. The latter quickly had an impact,
receiving a booking after kicking Diame and manhandling Nolan before
striking across the face of goal. Sandro was also at the heart of things in
the closing stages, blocking a shot, picking up a booking and then seeing
appeals for a handball against Taylor ignored. Adrian did wonderfully to tip
over a late Rose strike, which saw West Ham end a 10-match wait for a clean
sheet.
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MATCH REPORT: WEST HAM 2 SPURS 0 - CAN WE PLAY YOU EVERY WEEK?
By Iain Dale 3 May 2014 at 15:54
West Ham Till I Die
"A bad day for the Iain Dale agenda" chirrups a tweet from the only blogger
who didn't want to support the Allardyce poll. What a prat. If I have an
agenda, it is to see West Ham win and play attractive football. Just like
they did today. A great performance, a great team performance and some
superb individual performances. But it was against a team which played for
65 minutes with ten players, so let's not run away with the thought that
this was necessarily a portent of things to come. However, if the board are
judging Sam Allardyce over the last two games of the season, anyone would
have to admit that he got off to a good start.
Having said that the performance might have looked better than it actually
was, because it was against ten men, let's not be churlish. Even before
Kaboul was sent off We looked by far the better team. We had more ideas with
Andy Carroll looking particularly dangerous. From an attacking performance
viewpoint it was one of our strongest of the season with Downing causing
havoc and Diame having a strong game on the right. Carroll won everything in
the air and even with two defenders on him Spurs just didn't know how to
cope with his physical strength. He will no doubt claim the first goal but I
suspect it will go down as an OG. But Carroll could have had another couple
were it not for the outstanding performance of Lloris, the goalkeeper. He
saved at least three goals which some other keepers might well have let in.
In the midfield we looked incredibly strong. Noble put in a performance
which in any other game would have won man of the match, while Matt Taylor
could have nabbed a goal and also returned to the side with an impressive
showing. And wasn't it good to see Stewart Downing celebrating his goal as
if he had won the lottery. It's his first in 44 games. Let's hope he can nab
another next week.
Defensively, apart from the odd shaky moment, we were rarely threatened.
Adrian looked somewhat nervy at times, but at the end of the game pulled off
a tremendous save from Danny Rose. I think it came about five minutes from
the end, and could well have given Spurs the impetus they needed for an
equaliser.
Someone suggested I should re-run the poll after this game and it might have
a very different result. I doubt it very much to be honest. Sensible people
judge a manager on his record over a prolonged period of time. You don't
just do it on a game to game basis. I couldn't be more delighted if Sam
Allardyce stayed as manager and each week we put in this kind of
performance. And if he stays, that will be the Board's hope. Can I see it
happening? In all honesty, no. But I'd be very happy to be proved 100%
wrong.
Finally, let's bask in the fact that this season we have beaten Spurs three
times with an aggregate score of 7-1. I wonder how many years it will take
for us to repeat that particular feat!
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Hammers run riot to secure Premier League spot as Younes Kaboul sees red
May 03, 2014 22:30 By Steve Stammers
The Mirror
Once again, Tottenham Hotspur came to the rescue of Sam Allardyce. The West
Ham manager was under severe pressure going into the London derby that has
always had a special importance to those in the East End. Four successive
defeats had a section of support calling for Allardyce to move on. The
banner saying as much at The Hawthorns eight days ago was not scribbled in
hasty fashion because West Bromwich Albion were ahead. If ever Allardyce
needed a win it was yesterday - and Tottenham duly obliged, just as they had
twice before this season in the Premier League in October and the Capital
One Cup in December. They produced a limp and fragmented performance that
was a reflection of the uncertainty that has surrounded the club since it
became public knowledge that Tim Sherwood's tenure as manager would be
strictly short-term. Younes Kaboul played his part. After 24 minutes, as a
rejuvenated Stewart Downing accelerated towards the Tottenham goal, Kaboul
brought him down. Referee Phil Dowd reflected for a moment and showed Kaboul
a red card.
"The right decision, I am fine with it," said Sherwood. He was also fine
with the acrobatic save from the magnificent Hugo Lloris as Andy Carroll
blasted the free-kick goalwards. But the reprieve lasted less than a minute.
The highly-impressive Mark Noble took the resulting corner, Carroll headed
it back into the danger area and Harry Kane's involuntary touch took it past
Lloris and into the net. But if fortune was not hiding with that goal, the
second on the stroke of half-time was the product of blatant cowardice.
Downing lined up a free-kick some 20 yards out and the Tottenham wall was in
place. But as the shot came in, Paulinho and Emmanuel Adebayor both turned
sideways to avoid contact with the ball which flew past Lloris. In years to
come, Paulinho and Adebayor will likely collect medals. It is safe to say
that on yesterday's evidence, none will be for valour. "Not ideal, it wasn't
great" was the verdict of Sherwood of the defending of the free-kick.
Something of an under-statement, that. And it emerged that Sherwood pointed
out the error of their ways to the players afterwards in a dressing room
inquest. "I spoke to them and pointed out what an error it was. I said that
if the ball hits you in the stomach, it hurts when you go 2-0 down more than
it hurts when you get a ball in the stomach. That hurts for about 30
seconds. "It was always going to be difficult here but I thought we started
alright. The crowd were maybe a bit edgy and waiting for them to slip up. "
The atmosphere may have indeed changed if Adebayor had shown more conviction
with his finish when he through on goal from a Christian Eriksen pass. But a
lack of conviction was evident all afternoon from the Togo international.
"The game changed on the red card," said Sherwood who could at least rely on
Lloris. Tottenham may well want to recruit in the close season, at both
managerial and playing levels. The priority, however, must be to keep
Lloris. But for him, the score could have reached embarrassing proportions.
"He is top drawer," said Sherwood. "People say he wasn't the same after he
was kicked on the head in the game at Everton but that is crap. He doesn't
make many mistakes."
Unlike many of those in front of him with exceptions like Michael Dawson,
Danny Rose and the gifted Eriksen.
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Man United's loss could be QPR play-off gain - Redknapp
May 03, 2014 23:00 By Yann Tear 0 Comments
Harry Redknapp is tipping Ravel Morrison to have a big say in QPR's play-off
ambitions. The former Man United midfielder may have been seen as unreliable
by Sir Alex Ferguson and surplus to requirements at West Ham this season,
but the Rangers boss has faith in the 21-year-old. And he believes his
unpredictable talents could take the Hoops back to the Premier League. "He's
going to be an important player for us in the play-offs," said Redknapp.
"Ravel's done very well for us. We've been pleased with him. He's a real
talent. He's got the ability to become a top player, as long as he keeps
focused. "The ability's up there with the best in the country really, in
terms of what he can do. "He's a smashing boy. I've found him a nice kid.
He's not been a minute's problem. "Before I took him, I spoke to [manager]
Lee Clark at Birmingham and he loved him when he had him last year. "Sam
[Allardyce at West Ham] liked him. I think he just felt that he'd gone down
another road and he wasn't going to play so he let him come on loan and I
was grateful for that. "Hopefully he's got a great future. I'd love to see
him do well."
Asked about whether Morrison could one day feature for England, Redknapp
said: "You hope so, you just don't know. It's up to Ravel. He's got to make
sure he keeps his eye on the job at hand."
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