The Big Interview – Dimitri Payet
WHUFC.com
West Ham United's French talisman Dimitri Payet talks Rabonas, Russia 2018
and returning to La Reunion...
It was a disappointing result on Saturday, losing 4-2 at home to Watford in
the Premier League, where do you think we went wrong?
"Against Watford, you have to say that we had two very different halves. The
first, apart from the last five minutes, we were playing well and scored two
times. Unfortunately, we let them get back into the game and then in the
second half, they managed to get another. We lost this game and I think we
didn't quite do enough to see the game through and to win it.
For the second goal, it was an incredible bit of skill from you to cross in
for Michail Antonio, how much have you practiced that?
"It was something that came instinctively to me at that time in the game. I
thought that it was the best thing to do at that moment and I did it and it
worked. When it works, the skill becomes even more impressive."
Will we be seeing the Rabona again in the next couple of games?
"If it worked every time, then of course. Unfortunately, it is not a piece
of skill that you can use every time, so we will have to see."
What do you think Saturday's Premier League game at West Bromwich Albion
holds for us?
"We need points and so we need to get our heads down and work hard this
week. We will go there with the right attitude to go and get the win. We
know that every match in this league is difficult, especially away from
home. The key is to work hard and to go there with confidence and do what we
need to do on the day."
You were back with the France national side last week in Belarus, so how are
you feeling and what is the atmosphere like after the Euros?
"It went well for us. We had a great time at the Euros, we just lacked that
little edge to get the win. We have done well until now and we want to press
on with qualification for the World Cup in 2018."
This year has been a great year for you personally, do you feel that you can
continue that form in this new season?
"Of course, I have come back with the same ambitions that I had last season.
I want to do the best I can on the pitch and to perform as I know I can both
with my club and the national side. The World Cup is still two years away so
there is a lot of time and football to be played, however, I know that it is
going to come around very quickly."
You managed to get some time off over the summer at home in La Reunion, but
you had a busy schedule while you were over there, including a ceremony
naming a stadium in your honour at your old club in Saint-Philippe. How was
it to go home and to be welcomed by your fellow islanders?
"It means a lot to me to be received in that way. I feel such a connection
to my island and so to see the way they came out in force and named the
stadium after me, was something incredibly special for me. I try to
publicise and show off La Reunion around the world and so, if that works and
I can offer a positive image of the island, I will continue to do so."
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#ImagineBoleyn shortlisted for top award
WHUFC.com
West Ham United's stunning 360 degree Farewell Boleyn video has been
shortlisted for a 2016 Football Business Award.
The Hammers' entry, entitled #ImagineBoleyn, was produced by Ricoh, West Ham
United's official Information Technology Partner, in collaboration with
virtual reality specialists Immersive VR.
Narrated by star of film and television Ray Winstone, a lifelong Hammers
fan, the three-minute long feature incorporates high quality visuals, while
capturing West Ham's historic home of 112 years in a way never before seen.
The Club was determined to say farewell to the Club's stadium in a fitting
way, giving supporters the chance to continue to connect with the Boleyn
Ground for years to come.
Alongside fans' stories, photographs and memories, West Ham and Ricoh
created a fitting tribute for not only the Claret and Blue Army, but for the
wider football world.
The footage captured took fans to key parts of the Boleyn Ground, including
behind-the-scenes areas that would normally be kept from public view,
including the dressing room and players' tunnel, moments before kick-off.
Supporters were able to follow Hammer of the Year Dimitri Payet out of the
tunnel one final time, all in all-encompassing 360 degree viewing.
To enable the maximum possible number of fans to enjoy the unique film, the
Club produced a trailer promoting it across the Club's website and social
media channels, before launching the full broadcast on the Hammers' and
Ricoh's official Facebook and YouTube channels.
The 360 degree video is one of six shortlisted in the Football Business
Awards 2016 Best/Most Innovative use of Technology by a Club category,
alongside submissions from Cardiff City, Chelsea, Manchester United,
Middlesbrough and Wolverhampton Wanderers.
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West Ham's plea for police help at London Stadium turned down
BBC.co.uk
Senior officers have turned down a request from West Ham to police their
stadium on matchdays - because the £700m ground does not have a
"satisfactory" radio system. The club requested a police presence in the
ground after crowd trouble. The Hammers only moved to the London Stadium at
the start of the season.
"Until there is comprehensive radio coverage officers will not be routinely
deployed within it," said the Metropolitan Police's Peter Terry. Mr Terry,
who is deputy assistant commissioner of the Metropolitan Police and in
charge of specialist crime and operations, added: "The stadium operators are
responsible for the safety and comfort of their customers and staff. "This
issue was highlighted to the stadium operators in October 2014 and the
Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) has been in negotiation with stadium
operators regarding the provision of Airwave radio inside the stadium.
"During this time, the MPS had spoken to the stadium operators several times
to highlight the consequences of not installing such a system. "The MPS is
not able to provide Special Policing Services at this time as it would
normally, as there is no satisfactory radio system across the ground."
A stadium spokesman said a decision to install Airwave was "reached in March
2016" and that the procurement and installation of the system "is the
responsibility of the police". He added: "We have fully co-operated and will
facilitate any access they require to carry this out. "The safety of the
stadium is paramount and all safety plans are agreed in advance by the
police and if there were any significant concerns the stadium would not be
licensed." In response, the Metropolitan Police said it commissioned Airwave
to complete the required work in May, and added that it is working with the
company to "ensure this work is completed as quickly as possible".
All of Great Britain's emergency services and more than 300 public safety
organisations use the Airwave radio system to communicate. West Ham
confirmed that 10 fans were ejected from the stadium during the 4-2 defeat
by Watford on Saturday, and there were more disturbances during the first
home Premier League game against Bournemouth last month. West Ham are
tenants at the London Stadium, which is owned by E20 and was built to host
the 2012 London Olympics.
E20 says it is addressing the recent trouble. Documents released last year
showed the taxpayer - not the club - would foot the bill for much of the
matchday operating costs, including security. "A blame game is now
developing over the violent scenes at West Ham's new home. The club says the
stadium's owners and matchday operator need to bolster policing, stewarding
and segregation. "However, it has also been suggested that West Ham could
have done more to plan segregated family and singing sections, rather than
prioritising the sale of season tickets, with the mix of traditional
supporters and thousands of new fans thought to have led to tension."
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EXWHUEMPLOYEE COLUMN: MY STADIUM THOUGHTS….
BY EXWHUEMPLOYEE ON 12 SEPTEMBER 2016 AT 10:43PM
TheWestHamWay.co.uk
So this is going to be different to my usual type of column as I just want
to concentrate on the match rather than much else.
I have started to get into quite a routine at West Ham, meet up with a few
mates and then go for some beers and arrive to the ground about twenty
minutes before the match. I then catch up with all the friends who sit with
me and it feels like an exciting day out. I prefer this to Upton Park where
you couldn't meet anywhere as all the pubs were rammed and I always had to
drive to the matches as the trains were so poor.
The match started well. The first thirty minutes were amazing and the
atmosphere was spot on. The team looked on fire and I could see nothing but
a big win coming, oh how wrong I was. Terrible defending by Byram and a
combination of Collins and Adrian meant they were back in the game before
half time which was ridiculous. This is where the fun of the day started to
decline.
I went to the toilets, as always the prematch beers never give my bladder an
easy ride! As you go to the toilets in the East Stand there is no proper
queuing system because people filter in from all angles. A couple of old
boys took offence to the younger lads pushing in and asked them to go to the
back of the line. I used to see this a bit at Upton Park and usually the
accused would go to the back reluctantly. In this case both of the people
asked swore and called the old men a word beginning with C and it wasn't
carrot. I went outside to the food kiosks and bought a chicken burger and a
coke as I hadn't had any lunch, setting me back £10. In some ways this is
nice to be able to step outside and use the outside facilities but in some
ways it is worrying because any one could get in without ticket as there are
no checks going back in.
I got back to the seat and the team just looked like another team in the
second half. No effort, terrible defending again and little attacking
threat. It was in the second half where the atmosphere started to turn to a
horrible vibe. Where I am sat I could see fights breaking out to the left of
me, to the right of me and where the away fans met the stewards. The
stewards do not do anything, they stand there and watch. It is their job to
make sure the supporters behave. The problem is they are all young kids used
to dealing with athletics and concerts they are not trained. They need to be
put amongst experienced and loyal stewards from Upton Park. They also have
no police presence backing them up. Why are the police not in the stadium??
I just do not understand this. Apparently they have to be called in if
something serious happens. Thankfully the club have now insisted that E20
have a police presence and this should help with the situation. The police
will deter people from fighting and deal with it quickly if they do.
Considering every home game now I have been asked if I have been searched
and said yes and got through every time, it will not be long before
something serious does happen. What worries me even more is that we have
only played Bournemouth and Watford, teams I considered us to be friendly
with. I dread to think what happens when we play Spurs or Chelsea. The
club have again made it very clear to E20 that this is not acceptable and
that the stewards need further training.
One thing that has to be said though is that the fans part in this cannot be
excused. Yes it was a poor result, yes some fans are clearly wound up about
the standing and sitting but you don't need to turn to violence. You cannot
excuse someone who comes to a game and fights with his fellow fans
regardless of any other factor. Yes I believe this is happening more because
of the terrible stewarding but nonetheless these people need bans
immediately. I will not be taking my kids to the new stadium (something I
had planned to do) until this is sorted out.
The performances on the pitch do not help the situation. Had we won that
game we probably wouldn't be talking about all the fights now that we are. I
think I would make three or four big changes for the WBA game. I think
Ogbonna must play. At the moment I would say instead of Reid but Collins
hasn't exactly been on form this season either so I am not overly fussed
which one goes but Ogbonna must start. I think we need to get Arbeola fit
ASAP as Byram was very exposed at right back and I think we need someone
experienced there to come in. I would also think about dropping Adrian for
Randolph. I think Adrian has been weak on a number of goals this season
already whereas Darren hasn't let us down although of course this is a bit
of a kneejerk reaction.
The stadium problems surprise me because the club had brought in Angus
Kinnear from Arsenal and a few other directors to oversee our move to the
London stadium, like they had with Arsenal. They set up supporter advisory
boards dedicated to this and then quickly disbanded them. It baffles me that
no family section has been arranged or agreed before and that fans were not
suggested seats depending on whether they wanted to sing or not. These are
things that I believe we could have controlled. Things that I cannot
understand not being organised beforehand when families were choosing their
tickets. The club have now agreed to relocate these families which is a
positive step but one that shouldn't have had to happen because it should
have been sorted before the season.
The stewards are controlled by the Olympic committee and unfortunately we do
not have much say over them. The club had a big meeting today and have
lobbied the E20 for many changes in security and all for the better. Things
should improve.
As for the stadium, I understand people missing Upton Park, I do! I have
struggled to look at pictures of it recently because I miss going to the
games there. I was very pro the move however and whilst the stadium issues
have dampened my enthusiasm I think it is important to accept that there
were always going to be teething problems. I also think that like anything
it takes a while to get used to something new. If you have lived in a house
for 26 years (like I have had a season ticket) moving somewhere new always
takes a long time to feel like home especially when the landlord is not
doing their job properly. The bottom line is we cannot turn back and once
the results start to pick up on the pitch it will feel better. It felt good
for the first 30 minutes against Watford.
I think we have to wait until the end of the season before we can fully
judge the stadium. I understand the board's decision to move to the stadium
and do not hold any negativity towards them because I know this move was
done with the club's best interest at heart or so they believed. I think
mistakes have been made but thankfully we look like addressing them now.
When the team's performances pick up and we are at the end of the season,
then is the time to reflect back accurately on the success of the move.
I will bring more news in my next column but I wanted to have my say on the
issue. If you wish to vote for myself https://t.co/hZ7oo7IzFU , the site or
the podcast (see the West Ham Way Twitter Account) in the upcoming FBAs any
vote will be greatly received.
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Stadium infrastructure obsolete, say Met Police
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 13th September 2016
By: Staff Writer
A spokesman for Met Police claims that Olympic Stadium operators LS185 were
warned in 2014 that there was insufficient radio coverage inside the ground.
And the result of that particular oversight is that Police - who have
finally been given the green light to operate inside the venue - will be
unable to communicate once in the stadium until late November/early December
when the radio system will be updated. "The stadium operators are
responsible for the safety and comfort of their customers and staff. This
includes disorderly behaviour that has not reached the level of
criminality," Metropolitan Police Deputy Assistant Commissioner Peter Terry
told The Standard. "The Metropolitan Police Service will fulfil its legal
responsibilities in relation to dealing with matters of criminality. The MPS
is not able to provide Special Policing Services at this time as it would
normally, as there is no satisfactory radio system across the ground.
Police are to be allowed inside the stadium for the first time after WHUFC
demanded a presence - but they have no adequate means of communication.
"This issue was highlighted to the stadium operators in October 2014 and the
MPS has been in negotiation with stadium operators regarding the provision
of Airwave radio inside the stadium. "During this time, the MPS had spoken
to the stadium operators several times to highlight the consequences of not
installing such a system. "Until there is comprehensive Airwave radio
coverage throughout the ground officers will not be routinely deployed
within it under a Special Services agreement. The stadium operators have
only very recently agreed to install a satisfactory radio system."
West Ham United demanded a Police presence during a meeting with the stadium
operators LS185 yersterday, following a series of unsavoury incidents
witnessed inside the stadium.
An incident involving both home and away fans in the Trevor Brooking Stand
on Saturday was allowed to carry on for several minutes before Police
stationed outside the stadium were finally able to gain access. LS185 have
come under attack several times in recent weeks from supporters who have
been angered by sub-standard stewarding, poor security measures and the lack
of wifi access inside the ground.
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Mark Noble urges West Ham to stay positive after disappointing start
Last Updated: 13/09/16 3:40pm
SSN
West Ham captain Mark Noble has urged their supporters to stay positive
after a difficult start to the campaign. The Hammers have lost three of
their four Premier League games so far this season, and suffered a 4-2
defeat to Watford at London Stadium on Saturday. West Ham were 2-0 up in
that game after just 33 minutes but capitulated to fall to 17th in the
Premier League table. The game was also played before a backdrop of trouble
in the stands, where 10 supporters were ejected and nearly 100 complaints
were made over standing in seated areas and anti-social behaviour. But Noble
feels now is the time for unity and said: "That is the best we have played
for a long while, in the first half. A couple of mistakes have cost us and
we couldn't recover. "If we can go in 2-0 up at half-time it is a different
game, but the mistakes have cost us in the end. "There is a long way to go
and we have to stay positive."
Noble is also confident things will improve when key players such as Dimitri
Payet and Manuel Lanzini are back at full fitness after injury. "We have
still got new players coming in learning the league and we have a lot of
players in their second season," he said. "We have got players coming back
from injury like Manu and Dimi. "We have got to take the positives and we
played fantastic in the first half, but we conceded silly goals."
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No police presence inside London Stadium for West Ham's next match
By Ben Reynolds
Last Updated: 13/09/16 3:27pm
SSN
West Ham have failed in their bid to have police inside the ground at their
next home game following the trouble that marred Saturday's 4-2 defeat to
Watford - because there is no satisfactory radio system installed at the
London Stadium. A statement from the club on Monday night confirmed 10
supporters were ejected from the stadium during the game, with nearly 100
complaints made over standing in seated areas and anti-social behaviour. No
arrests were made, but the club were adamant that stadium owners E20
guarantee a police presence when the Hammers take on Accrington Stanley in
the EFL Cup on September 21. However, deputy assistant commissioner Peter
Terry said the lack of a reliable radio system across the ground - an issue
highlighted in 2014 - means the Metropolitan Police Service cannot provide
extra policing. Stadium operators LS185 expect that radio system to be in
place in time for West Ham's next category C match, which is likely to be
the derby against Arsenal in December, but Sky Sports News HQ understands
there is frustration from the club that they are not allowed to run the
security operation themselves. "The stadium operators are responsible for
the safety and comfort of their customers and staff. This includes
disorderly behaviour that has not reached the level of criminality," said
Terry. "The Metropolitan Police Service will fulfill its legal
responsibilities in relation to dealing with matters of criminality. "The
MPS is not able to provide Special Policing Services at this time as it
would normally, as there is no satisfactory radio system across the ground.
"This issue was highlighted to the stadium operators in October 2014 and the
MPS has been in negotiation with stadium operators regarding the provision
of Airwave radio inside the stadium. During this time, the MPS had spoken to
the stadium operators several times to highlight the consequences of not
installing such a system. "Until there is comprehensive Airwave radio
coverage throughout the ground, officers will not be routinely deployed
within it under a Special Services agreement. The stadium operators have
only very recently agreed to install a satisfactory radio system."
E20 and LS185 have also issued a joint-statement defending their actions and
insisting that infighting among the West Ham fans is the main problem for
the stewards. The statement read: "The safety of the stadium is paramount
and all safety plans are agreed in advance by the police and if there were
any significant concerns the stadium would not be licensed. "Saturday's
match was a Category A, low risk game and the police were based at the Park
Headquarters throughout to monitor events at the stadium. They were deployed
in the stadium when required, however the main pressure on the stewarding
during the game was from infighting among the West Ham United fans. "A
decision to install Airwave was reached in March 2016. The procurement and
installation is the responsibility of the police we have fully co-operated
and will facilitate any access they require to carry this out."
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West Ham vow to ban fans who verbally-abused Karren Brady during Watford
trouble
23:08, 12 SEP 2016 UPDATED 23:08, 12 SEP 2016
BY NEIL MCLEMAN
The club will review CCTV images in a bid to identify the culprits after 13
supporters were banned following events at Saturday's game
The Mirror
West Ham have to vowed to ban fans who verbally abused vice-chairman Karren
Brady after calling for more police and better stewarding at the London
Stadium.
The stadium operators announced announced on Monday that the 13 supporters
who caused trouble at Saturday's match with Watford will be banned from all
future events at the former Olympic Stadium. And the club will review CCTV
images in a bid to identify the culprits. But West Ham are not responsible
for security at the ground and want to "guarantee" a police presence inside
the London Stadium during matches. The club also called for the operators
to increase stewarding "in terms of numbers, but also in terms of the level
training and experience they have dealing with Premier League football
matches".
Scuffles broke out between rival supporters and West Ham fans and stewards
on Saturday over demands to sit down during the game. West Ham are also
looking to create a family area. A meeting between the club and the
operators of the London Stadium will be held on Tuesday. A spokesman for the
operators (LS 185) said: "As part of our review process, we will be taking
steps to strengthen the segregation measures between home and away
supporters. "In-fighting amongst home supporters has also given us cause for
concern and we will continue to work closely with West Ham United to
identify and take action against the small number of supporters found to be
responsible for these incidents."
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West Ham demand police presence and segregation at London Stadium after
reading riot act to landlords
20:19, 13 SEP 2016 UPDATED 20:19, 13 SEP 2016
BY MIKE WALTERS
Crowd trouble marred the Hammers' 4-2 home defeat by Watford at the
taxpayer-funded London Stadium on Saturday
The Mirror
West Ham have demanded a police presence and more robust segregation after
reading the riot act to their own landlords. The Hammers' move into the
taxpayer-funded London Stadium was rocked by crowd trouble at Saturday's 4-2
home defeat by Watford. And some fans are at loggerheads with the club – and
each other – over the right to stand throughout the game. Although West Ham
have announced reinforcements of flimsy segregation between opposing fans
and insisted on policing inside the stadium on the Queen Elizabeth II
Olympic Park, the FA are still investigating the disturbances. Ten people
were ejected and the club received 47 complaints from fans – seven about
fans standing and another 40 relating to "anti-social behaviour" - after
Slaven Bilic's side collapsed from a 2-0 lead.
And the Hammers, who have threatened lifetime bans for fans who resort to
violence, are so concerned about the undercurrent of hostility they are now
appealing for supporters to grass on each other to stamp out the
disturbances. The disorder is embarrassing for co-owners David Gold, David
Sullivan and vice-chairman Karren Brady, who pulled off the deal of the
century to move West Ham from Upton Park to their rebranded 'London' stadium
on the cheap. Apart from £2.5 million-a-year in rent, the Hammers were
required to pay just £15m of the £272m needed to adapt the iconic 2012
Olympic venue for football. They are not even obliged to cover the costs of
police, stewards supplied by independent company LS185, pitch maintenance or
even household bills in their adopted home.
But it beggars belief that a Premier League club with 57,000 crowds at home
games – and a recent history of crowd control problems after Manchester
United's team coach was pelted with missiles four months ago – should have
had no police inside the ground. Watford fans complained of bottles and
coins being thrown, and home fans charging at the away supporters'
enclosure, in a feral atmosphere with echoes of football's hooligan excess
from the 1980s. And after urgent talks with stadium owners E20, West Ham
trumpeted "essential improvements" which should have been there in the first
place.
A club statement said: "Whilst West Ham United do not hold the safety
certificate or control security at the stadium, the club is doing everything
possible within its jurisdiction to help provide a safe and enjoyable
environment for all supporters. "The club have insisted that E20 guarantee a
police presence in the stadium.
"In addition, the club have also specified a number of essential, important
improvements to matchday operations, including the need for LS185 to bolster
the stewarding and security operation in terms of numbers, but also in terms
of the level of training and experience of Premier League matches. "This
includes a more robust and secure line of segregation between the home and
visiting fans. We have been assured this will be in place ahead of the next
match. "The club has already taken action to improve elements within their
control, including relocation of young children and families from areas
where the fans are more vociferous and the issuing of season-long bans for
anti-social behaviour. "We would appeal to supporters to report any
incidents to the club, as all complaints are fully investigated in
conjunction with CCYV footage with a view to issuing further bans where
appropriate. "The more intelligence the club has, the more pro-active and
focused all efforts to clamp down on anti-social behaviour will be."
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West Ham may face wait for police presence inside London Stadium over lack
of "satisfactory radio system"
12:58, 13 SEP 2016 UPDATED 13:11, 13 SEP 2016
BY JAMES WHALING
Some Hammers were involved in skirmishes during the match against the
Hornets leading to the Irons requesting a police presence inside the ground
The Mirror
West Ham will be forced to wait for a police presence inside the London
Stadium after violent scenes in the stands of their Premier League clash
against Watford on Saturday. Some Hammers fans were involved in skirmishes
during the match against the Hornets which led to the Irons releasing a
statement confirming they would request officers in the ground. However, the
Metropolitan Police Service has confirmed that the behaviour of supporters
is not yet at a 'criminal' level, and that the lack of 'satisfactory radio
systems' means a presence will not yet be forthcoming. Metropolitan Police
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Peter Terry, Specialist Crime and Operations,
told the Evening Standard: "The stadium operators are responsible for the
safety and comfort of their customers and staff. "This includes disorderly
behaviour that has not reached the level of criminality. The Metropolitan
Police Service will fulfil its legal responsibilities in relation to dealing
with matters of criminality. "The MPS is not able to provide Special
Policing Services at this time as it would normally, as there is no
satisfactory radio system across the ground.
"This issue was highlighted to the stadium operators in October 2014 and
the MPS has been in negotiation with stadium operators regarding the
provision of Airwave radio inside the stadium. "During this time, the MPS
had spoken to the stadium operators several times to highlight the
consequences of not installing such a system. "Until there is comprehensive
Airwave radio coverage throughout the ground officers will not be routinely
deployed within it under a Special Services agreement. The stadium operators
have only very recently agreed to install a satisfactory radio system." West
Ham released a statement last night confirming a full investigation had been
undertaken following the crowd trouble which saw children look on in horror
at what they were witnessing. As well as asking for police presence, the
Hammers confirmed 10 individuals had been ejected from the stadium, but that
no arrests were made. Seven complaints were made in relation to standing,
with a further 40 reports of antisocial behaviour within the ground. Mirror
Football have contacted West Ham for comment.
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West Ham investigate £6.2m signing of Arthur Masuaku amid fears club
overpaid for left-back
11:54, 13 SEP 2016 UPDATED 11:58, 13 SEP 2016
BY MARTIN DOMIN
Club signed French defender from Greek champions Olympiacos
The Mirror
West Ham will attempt to determine whether they overpaid for £6.2million
summer signing Arthur Masuaku. The French left-back joined from Greek
champions Olympiacos and has featured in each of the Hammers' opening four
Premier League matches. But the club believe he cost them £1m too much and
want to find out if someone not named on the official documentation was paid
commission. The club confirmed to the Daily Mail that they have launched an
investigation.
Masuaku, 22, spent two seasons in Greece after moving from Valenciennes in
his homeland. And after making his debut in the 2-1 defeat by Chelsea last
month, he said: "The Premier League is very fast and for me it was tough
physically as I am not 100 per cent yet. I just want to keep going, work
hard and hopefully show my best form." West Ham's first-choice left-back
Aaron Cresswell is currently sidelined with a knee injury.
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West Ham investigate signing of Arthur Masuaku from Olympiakos
By Sky Sports News HQ
Last Updated: 13/09/16 11:27am
SSN
West Ham are investigating the deal that saw French left-back Arthur Masuaku
join them from Greek champions Olympiakos over the summer. The Hammers paid
£6.2m to land the 22-year-old but it is understood club officials are
concerned they overpaid for the player by almost £1m. West Ham are concerned
someone was paid who was not declared on the official transfer document,
with a representative dispatched to Athens last week to establish if that
was the case. Masuaku came through the youth system at Valenciennes in his
home country before joining Olympiakos in August 2014. He played 65 times
for the Greek side before completing the deal to join West Ham that has now
caused concern. Masuaku has played in all four Premier League games for
Slaven Bilic's side this season.
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West Ham fans want action over London Stadium segregation problems
• Club to hold crisis talks with operators after trouble at last match
• West Ham demand police presence at new ground
Owen Gibson
@owen_g
Monday 12 September 2016 20.25 BST Last modified on Tuesday 13 September
2016 08.13 BST
West Ham fans are calling for urgent action to resolve stewarding and
segregation issues that have marred their move to the London Stadium, as
tensions rose between the club and the stadium's owners over violent scenes
on Saturday.
West Ham will this week hold talks with the operators of their new £701m
home, with each understood to blame the other for the situation that led to
home fans clashing with one another and with away fans during the 4-2 defeat
by Watford.
The club have demanded a police presence at the ground, which would have to
be paid for by the operators under the terms of the lease. West Ham's
executive vice-chairman, Karren Brady, was booed when her image flashed up
on the big screen on Saturday and she was verbally abused by some fans.
"The way it's going, someone is going to end up seriously hurt," said Graeme
Howlett, editor of the Knees Up Mother Brown website. "It's dangerous. We've
got so many accounts of fans trading blows, people having to dive on their
kids to protect them.
"The two big problems are probably that the migration from Upton Park was
not handled as well as it could have been and the second is that there is no
family enclosure."
A West Ham spokesman said the London Stadium did have a family section, with
two blocks reserved in the Bobby Moore stand, and thus complied with Premier
League guidelines. "The club is doing everything possible within its
jurisdiction to help provide a safe and enjoyable environment for all
supporters," the club said. "The club is working hard to move like-minded
supporters into areas to enhance their match-day experience."
By offering cheap ticket deals for minors and allowing existing season
ticket holders to purchase two extra seats at the new ground, West Ham have
25,000 family ticket holders in the stadium that has a capacity of 57,000.
Cheap season ticket deals and the allure of the new stadium have also
tempted new fans to buy season tickets. Much of the tension has been sparked
because fans who were used to standing for much of the match at Upton Park
have been told to sit at the London Stadium.
West Ham are believed to be concerned that the standard of stewarding has
not been up to scratch and will be seeking answers from LS185, the company
used by the stadium operators, Vinci, to handle the task.
"You've got the two different factions being separated by a handful of
stewards," said Howlett. "The majority of the stewards are not trained or
not able to act. It's ludicrous. There are no police inside the stadium. On
Saturday it took 15 minutes for a response team to come in.
"I have plenty of sympathy with those who want to be allowed to stand. We've
got this ridiculous issue where the home fans are told to sit, yet the away
fans are allowed to stand."
The LLDC is expected to argue privately that Vinci, which also operates the
Stade de France, has longstanding experience of overseeing sporting events
and that hundreds of thousands of fans have attended other events at the
stadium with no problem.
West Ham will seek to start relocating fans so they can sit with more
like-minded supporters but the process will be far from straightforward. It
is unclear what went wrong during the consultation process that was supposed
to ensure that fans sat in a part of the stadium with a similar atmosphere
to that they were leaving behind at Upton Park.
Brady is also expected to push LS185 – which must pay for all stewarding and
security within the stadium under the terms of the controversial tenancy
deal signed with West Ham – to improve stewarding and segregation.
The KUMB site has collated anonymous submissions from former Upton Park
stewards who claim their expertise and experience was ignored by the new
stadium operators. Among their complaints is that stewards are allocated
randomly to different parts of the ground and thus unable to build up a
rapport over successive matches.
Fans have complained that many of the 700-strong army of stewards have
little experience of managing football crowds, having been trained to look
after other events, and of inadequate security measures.
West Ham and LS185 have been asked to draw up a report for Newham Council's
Safety Advisory Group, while the Football Association has also confirmed
that it is investigating scenes that saw 10 fans ejected on Saturday and
three handed to the police.
Ten other West Ham fans had already been banned for life following incidents
at earlier games in the Europa League and the Premier League opener against
Bournemouth.
Both LS185 and West Ham are combing through CCTV footage and clips posted on
social media to identify perpetrators.
"As part of our review process, we will be taking steps to strengthen the
segregation measures between home and away supporters," said an LS185
spokesman.
"In-fighting amongst home supporters has also given us cause for concern and
we will continue to work closely with West Ham United to identify and take
action against the small number of supporters found to be responsible for
these incidents.
"We remain determined to ensure that all supporters can enjoy the best
possible matchday experience in a safe and secure environment and fully
support West Ham's efforts to migrate supporters attending in family groups
to dedicated sections."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham United's 'Robust' Response To 'Watfordgate'
Submitted by nevillenixon on Tue, 13/09/2016 - 10:11
WestHamFans.org
The groundswell of opinion among fans and the massively negative press that
followed the 2-4 defeat to Watford at the London Stadium has, as expected,
invoked an immediate response from the club with the blame for events being
firmly placed on the stadium management and particularly on the security
company they use. The 'robust' response on the club's official website is as
follows:
"West Ham United undertook a full investigation into the crowd issues
immediately after Saturday's game with Watford and today held a productive
meeting with stadium owners E20. Whilst West Ham United do not hold the
Safety Certificate (this is held by LS185) or control the security at the
stadium, the Club is doing everything possible within its jurisdiction to
help provide a safe and enjoyable environment for all supporters. It is
important that we recognise the vast majority who have attended the first
five fixtures played at London Stadium have been outstanding with their
behaviour and support. They, like all at West Ham United, do not want their
reputation or the Club's to be tarnished by the minority. Today, the Club
have insisted that E20 guarantee a police presence in the Stadium. In
addition, the Club have also specified a number of essential important
improvements to match day operations moving forward, including the need for
LS185 to bolster the stewarding and security operation in terms of numbers,
but also in terms of the level training and experience they have dealing
with Premier League football matches. E20 confirmed today that immediate
action is being taken on the issues raised. The Club will work tirelessly
with them to ensure London Stadium continues to be the inclusive and
family-friendly environment that all parties have worked so hard to achieve.
This includes a more robust and secure line of segregation between the home
and visiting fans as specified by the Club. We have been assured this will
be in place ahead of the next match. The Club has already taken action to
improve all match day elements within their control, including the
relocation of young children and families from areas where the fans are more
vociferous and the issuing of season long bans for supporters engaging in
antisocial behaviour.
The Club is working hard to move likeminded supporters into areas to enhance
their match day experience. This process commenced ahead of the Watford game
and has already proved successful in key areas. The Club will continue
prioritising this approach around the stadium.
In relation to Saturday's match against Watford: • 10 individuals were
ejected from the Stadium.• No arrests were made. • The Club received seven
complaints in relation to standing, although 40 reports were received in
relation to the antisocial behaviour in the stands.
The Club would appeal to supporters to report any incidents directly to the
Club, as all reported complaints and incidents are fully investigated, in
conjunction with a full review of CCTV footage from the day, with a view to
issuing further bans where appropriate. Supporters are requested to provide
as much information as possible, as the more intelligence the Club have the
more proactive and focused all efforts to clamp down on antisocial behaviour
will be. The Club will act on every piece of evidence all of which will be
collated and treated in the strictest of confidence. The Club now appeals to
all supporters to come together and support West Ham in the famous way we
have historically been so proud of."
At least the issues are being addressed, certain teething troubles were
expected following the move from the Boleyn Ground to the London Stadium,
but they have turned out being more root canal than a simple filling!
It does appear that the immediate issue that needs addressing is top of the
agenda, and that being crowd segregation. It is a blessing in disguise that
things 'kicked off' during the Watford match, and as much as their
'cheerleaders' would like to think, they were one of the 'softer' teams that
West Ham will face, even though the match was technically a London derby.
Had the visitors been from Tottenham or Chelsea the outcome could have been
horrific, and that is no over statement!
Negatives & Positives:
The obvious negative is that the publicity for the club has been atrocious,
images of fighting fans have been beamed all round the world, hardly the
sort of global branding envisaged by the West Ham hierarchy. Fans feel
'disconnected', not because of sight lines or atmosphere, more the fact that
the stewards treat them generally politely but incredibly inefficiently,
acting with no latitude, empathy is an essential element of crowd control!
The positives are that a major incident has thus far been avoided, and
henceforth the impending 'shoring up' between the away fans and the Sir
Trevor Brooking stand home fans will engender a feeling of increased
security and well being, especially among those who are accompanying
children. Because there has been such a brouhaha about the first few
matches, rival supporters have begun to think the london stadium is 'there
for the taking', the new controls being put in place should help snuff out
that particular cinder and hopefully people can enjoy watching a football
match instead of seeing an endless stream of hapless 'yellow jackets'
panicking as they try to diffuse situations they have little or no training
for.
The increased police presence is also a must, and one that will be welcomed
by all, even those who don't always see eye to eye with the authorities! It
is to be hoped that they can suggest the leaving time for the away
supporters in order to avoid clashes outside the stadium as well.
So: Build a wall to segregate the away fans, a sufficient metal barrier that
is high enough not to be vaulted and strong enough not to be knocked over.
Have a Police presence inside the Stadium, and insist on much better
training for the security staff. These actions will go a long way to making
a visit to the London Stadium a positive experience that can be recommended.
Of course we haven't touched on the issue of safe standing and family zones
yet, why on earth given the amount of season tickets held by under 16's, was
no provision made for a family zone? It beggars belief that the hard working
board of West Ham didn't perceive this issue before it had a chance to
develop. The safe standing problem will unfortunately run and run due to the
FA's vice like grip on any meaningful change to the rules, however common
sense can prevail if like minded souls are given the option to swap areas
that they are currently seated in and be positioned where they are not
obscuring the views of those who cannot or do not wish to stand, or those of
children. Of course by doing so the club would be surreptitiously condoning
standing, but technically they would just be 'assembling' like minded
supporters who like to 'sing and chant' more than others.
It is vital that West Ham United is seen as a club moving forward, and their
supporters not as a bunch of ingrates who cannot handle being 'gifted' one
of the best stadiums in the world, but as supporters who are embracing a
brave new world whist maintaining the core values that made West Ham many
opposition supporters' favourite second team. Come on you irons? - Ed
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Wednesday, September 14
Tuesday, September 13
Daily WHUFC News - 13th September 2016
Club Statement
WHUFC.com
West Ham United undertook a full investigation into the crowd issues
immediately after Saturday's game with Watford and today held a productive
meeting with stadium owners E20.
Whilst West Ham United do not hold the Safety Certificate (this is held by
LS185) or control the security at the stadium, the Club is doing everything
possible within its jurisdiction to help provide a safe and enjoyable
environment for all supporters.
It is important that we recognise the vast majority who have attended the
first five fixtures played at London Stadium have been outstanding with
their behaviour and support. They, like all at West Ham United, do not want
their reputation or the Club's to be tarnished by the minority.
Today, the Club have insisted that E20 guarantee a police presence in the
Stadium.
In addition, the Club have also specified a number of essential important
improvements to match day operations moving forward, including the need for
LS185 to bolster the stewarding and security operation in terms of numbers,
but also in terms of the level training and experience they have dealing
with Premier League football matches.
E20 confirmed today that immediate action is being taken on the issues
raised. The Club will work tirelessly with them to ensure London Stadium
continues to be the inclusive and family-friendly environment that all
parties have worked so hard to achieve.
This includes a more robust and secure line of segregation between the home
and visiting fans as specified by the Club. We have been assured this will
be in place ahead of the next match.
The Club has already taken action to improve all match day elements within
their control, including the relocation of young children and families from
areas where the fans are more vociferous and the issuing of season long bans
for supporters engaging in antisocial behaviour.
The Club is working hard to move likeminded supporters into areas to enhance
their match day experience. This process commenced ahead of the Watford game
and has already proved successful in key areas. The Club will continue
prioritising this approach around the stadium.
In relation to Saturday's match against Watford:
• 10 individuals were ejected from the Stadium.
• No arrests were made.
• The Club received seven complaints in relation to standing, although 40
reports were received in relation to the antisocial behaviour in the stands.
The Club would appeal to supporters to report any incidents directly to the
Club, as all reported complaints and incidents are fully investigated, in
conjunction with a full review of CCTV footage from the day, with a view to
issuing further bans where appropriate.
Supporters are requested to provide as much information as possible, as the
more intelligence the Club have the more proactive and focused all efforts
to clamp down on antisocial behaviour will be. The Club will act on every
piece of evidence all of which will be collated and treated in the strictest
of confidence.
The Club now appeals to all supporters to come together and support West Ham
in the famous way we have historically been so proud of.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Manager on Monday
WUFC.com
Slaven Bilic insists West Ham United have not become a bad side overnight.
The Hammers have lost three of their first four Premier League matches and
sit in the lower reaches of the table following a 4-2 home defeat by Watford
on Saturday. Manager Bilic is refusing to panic, though, and says his squad
still have the qualities which helped them mount a sustained challenge for a
top-four finish last season. "We have a team that did so well last year and
had leaders and pace and tactical discipline and everything," he said. "Now,
we aren't going to say that the same team is missing leaders and all that.
We will get together, work hard and turn this situation around. "There's no
point in talking about leadership on the pitch or moving grounds and all
that, because it didn't stop us beating Bournemouth."
Reflecting on Saturday's loss to the Hornets, which saw Walter Mazzarri's
side come from two goals down to win at London Stadium, Bilic said Watford's
two goals in five minutes before half-time drained the confidence from his
players. West Ham looked set to make it two home wins from two when Michail
Antonio headed in a pair of Dimitri Payet crosses, only for defensive lapses
to enable Odion Ighalo and Troy Deeney to level things up.
With the Hammers struggling to regain their composure, Watford scored twice
more through Etienne Capoue and Jose Holebas to complete what Bilic
described as a 'difficult' afternoon.
"We had a difficult afternoon on Saturday," he confirmed. "We started really
well and had five chances in the first 20 minutes, and to be fair they had
two as well. After that it was all us until the last five minutes of the
first half, when they scored two goals. "We had the game under complete
control and they didn't hurt us. We were good and created even more chances,
but then from our point of view, we conceded two goals which were far too
easy for them to score. I am concerned by the defending because we couldn't
cope. "You can't win many games in the Premier League if you defend like
that."
While Bilic conceded that conceding two quickfire goals before half-time had
drained confidence from his team, he is eager that the same situation not
happen again. "Obviously the players were in shock at half-time and we tried
to ease them down. OK, it was 2-2 but we still had 45 minutes, but it was
because of those two goals at the end of the first half that some players
lost their confidence. "Sometimes I can understand that happening, but not
on Saturday. The level of some players' confidence depends on the scoreline
– they are OK when they are 2-0 up or something but, as soon as the opponent
scores a couple of goals like happened on Saturday, it drops. "On the one
hand it's understandable, but on the other hand it can't happen."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Antonio & Martinez take monthly awards
WHUFC.com
Michail Antonio named whufc.com Player of the Month after outstanding August
Winger took 57 percent of the fan vote
Youngster Antonio Martinez wins Goal of the Month for stunning strike at
Coventry City
Michail Antonio and Antonio Martinez are the Hammers' first Player and Goal
of the Month award winners of the season. The pair were both clear winners
in the fan votes for August on whufc.com, with Antonio taking 57 percent of
the vote for Player of the Month and Martinez 44 percent in the Goal of the
Month poll for his stunner in the Checkatrade Trophy tie at Coventry City.
Antonio's honour was richly deserved after the 26-year-old made a huge
impact in August, scoring the Club's first Premier League goal at London
Stadium – and a late winner at that against AFC Bournemouth – and heading
home from Arthur Masuaku's cross at Manchester City. His form was also
recognised by new England manager Sam Allardyce, who called him up for the
Three Lions for the first time as they took on Slovakia in a FIFA World Cup
qualifier.
Antonio beat left-back Masuaku in to second place, after the Frenchman
polled 26 percent in his first month as a Hammer. Cheikhou Kouyate rounded
out the top three. In the Goal of the Month vote, Spanish youngster
Martinez's superb volley at the Ricoh Arena clinched the top prize. In
second was James Collins' fierce strike in the Premier League opener at
Chelsea – with 29 percent of the vote – while Sofiane Feghouli was third
with his strike against NK Domzale.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Noble - We have to stay positive
WHUFC.com
West Ham United captain Mark Noble insists the players have got to stay
positive and make amends for the disappointing home defeat against Watford
on Saturday. The Hammers were in pole position to win the game after Michail
Antonio had scored a brace in the opening 33 minutes. But Watford managed to
score two late goals in the first half to draw level and then went on to win
the game comfortably in the second half. Despite the disappointment, Noble
says the players will be doing everything to get straight back on the
winning trail and hopes the return of key players such as Dimitri Payet and
Manuel Lanzini can help them get another positive result when they travel to
play West Brom on Saturday. Noble said: "That is the best we have played for
a long while, in the first half. A couple of mistakes have cost us and we
couldn't recover. "If we can go in 2-0 up at half-time it is a different
game, but the mistakes have cost us in the end. "There is a long way to go
and we have to stay positive. "We got punished and have to learn our
lessons. We have still got new players coming in learning the league and we
have a lot of players in their second season "We have got players coming
back from injury like Manu and Dimi. We have got to take the positives and
played fantastic in the first half, but we conceded silly goals."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Five Talking Points
WHUFC.com
Michail Antonio's goalscoring, Dimitri Payet's return and Simone Zaza's
debut are among today's topics for discussion...
Dimi's back!
While he ended up on the losing side, there is no doubt that Dimitri Payet's
return made West Ham United into a far more potent attacking force. The
France international set up both of Michail Antonio's first-half goals – the
second with an outrageous Rabona – and made six key passes overall. Payet
also touched the ball 91 times – 19 more than any other player on the pitch
– put in a team-high eight crosses and unleashed five shots on the Watford
goal. If that type of output continues, the No27 will undoubtedly keep
creating and start scoring goals going forward.
Michail's using his head (again)
Michail Antonio is by no means a giant of a man, but his goalscoring record
since his arrival at West Ham United suggests he is the best header of the
ball in the Premier League.
The No30 has nodded in ten goals since the start of the 2015/16 season,
three ahead of Arsenal's Olivier Giroud and five more than teammate Andy
Carroll. Antonio's athleticism and spring give him an advantage over many
defenders, but it is his anticipation, movement and willingness to come off
his wing to get inside the far post to attack crosses that set him apart
from his fellow Premier League widemen. The Londoner's start to the season
suggest his scoring ratio from last season is sustainable, so long as he
keeps using his head!
A promising debut
He might not have scored, and picked up a unique booking for slapping the
ball into the face of his marker, but Simone Zaza's debut was still a
promising one. The Italy striker had one shot, made three key passes and
touched the ball 34 times, while his willingness to run the channels, link
up play with his pack to goal and work hard to regain possession were
appreciated by the Claret and Blue Army. Zaza's chemistry with the creative
forces behind him will only improve with game-time, too.
Ch-ch-ch-ch-Changes?
Whenever your team loses a football match, supporters demand an inquest into
what went wrong and, more often than not, changes to the team. With players
returning from injury and full internationals manning the substitutes' bench
during the 4-2 Premier League defeat by Watford, Slaven Bilic certainly has
the option of shaking up his starting XI for Saturday's trip to West
Bromwich Albion. Republic of Ireland goalkeeper Darren Randolph, Italy
centre-half Angelo Ogbonna and Norway defensive midfielder Havard Nordtveit
went unused against the Hornets as Bilic sent on attacking replacements as
West Ham chased the game. All three could be called upon at The Hawthorns,
where Bilic could be tempted to play a less attack-minded team from the
start. Alternatively, the manager insisted his team have not lost the
ability and confidence they showed last season, and he may therefore choose
to keep faith with those who started the game so well on Saturday.
Don't panic!
Last season, West Ham United lost two of their opening three Premier League
matches, but bounced back to spend virtually the whole season in the top
half of the table. The Hammers were beaten on home turf by Leicester City
and AFC Bournemouth, but did not panic and bounced back to win five and draw
two of their next seven league matches. That run started with a 3-0 win at
Liverpool so why, with a stronger squad on paper than a year ago, can't West
Ham pull off a similarly impressive result at West Bromwich Albion this
weekend and start another unbeaten run? Having won 3-0 at The Hawthorns as
recently as 30 April, too, the Hammers will have fond memories of their last
trip to face the Baggies. The underlying message is – don't panic!
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Loanee round-up
WHUFC.com
A host of Hammers made appearances for their on-loan clubs this weekend
Reece Burke made his Wigan Athletic debut in the Championship on Saturday
Enner Valencia could make his Everton debut at Sunderland on Monday evening
Four West Ham United youngesters featured for their respective loan clubs in
the English Football League over the weekend.
Reece Burke made his Wigan Athletic debut on Saturday when the Latics lost
2-1 at Sheffield Wednesday in the Championship. The 20-year-old centre-back
completed the full 90 minutes as Fernando Forestieri scored a second-half
winner to secure three points for the Owls. Kyle Knoyle is also on loan at
Wigan, but did not feature in the defeat as he continues his recovery from
injury.
After returning from duty with the Norway senior squad over the
international break, Martin Samuelsen came on as a late substitute as
Blackburn Rovers earned just their second point of the season with a 1-1
draw at Queens Park Rangers. Tjaronn Chery gave Rangers the lead in their
Championship clash at Loftus Road with an exquisite free-kick before Sam
Gallagher netted a late equaliser to earn a valuable point for Rovers.
Josh Cullen played his part once again as Bradford City maintained their
unbeaten start to their League One season with a 1-1 draw at Gillingham in
League One. Cody McDonald scored early on for the Gills, but Jordy
Hiwula-Mayifuila equalised for the Bantams at the Priestfield Stadium.
Another Hammers loanee featured in the match – Josh Pask, who's with
Gillingham, came on as a late substitute for McDonald.
Also in League One, left-back Lewis Page played just over an hour for
Coventry City as they drew 1-1 at Millwall, where Lions striker Aiden
O'Brien cancelled out Marvin Sordell's strike with 20 minutes to play.
Elsewhere, George Dobson was an unused substitute as Walsall lost 2-0 away
at Northampton Town.
Meanwhile, Luka Belic and Doneill Henry both did not feature for their new
clubs. Belic's Motherwell drew 1-1 at Ross County in the Scottish
Premiership, while Henry's new Danish side AC Horsens won 4-2 away at Viborg
in the Super League.
Looking ahead, Enner Valencia could make his Everton debut on Monday evening
when they face Sunderland in the Premier League, live on Sky Sports.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
From the Terraces
WHUFC.com
Fan blogger Joe Difford looks back at Saturday's game against Watford…
After the well-timed international break, Slaven Bilic and his players were
mostly fit and raring to go against Watford in the second Premier League
game at the London Stadium.
However, a shocking thirty minutes saw us throw away a two-goal lead where
we were completely in control.
It may seem difficult to find any positives in Saturday afternoon's clash,
especially because we were in complete control in the opening exchanges. But
the Premier League is a marathon, not a sprint, and it is far better to iron
out these issues in the first few weeks of the campaign.
After receiving his first England call up, Michail Antonio was raring to go
and nodded home from a Dimitri Payet corner after just five minutes. The
winger has scored more headed goals in the past year than anyone else in the
league, and added yet another shortly after.
This time, we were treated to an outrageous, audacious piece of skill from
Payet on his return, as his rabona cross floated perfectly for Antonio to
head home at the back post.
Result aside, it is amazing to see Payet back in Claret and Blue, and if he
can provide more assists for Antonio, the new England recruit should finally
get on the pitch for Sam Allardyce's side in the next set of internationals.
Manuel Lanzini was full of energy as usual, as he almost scored a goal with
a similar bit of skill to Payet's cross, but it bobbled wide. Simone Zaza
showed off some impressive hold-up play on his debut, just a month after
scoring here when Juventus visited in pre season.
As we approached half time however, everything seemed to fall apart and
Watford bagged two in quick succession, one an unfortunate mix-up between
James Collins and Adrian.
Having conceded two just before the break, we came back out a little jaded,
and Watford capitalised, scoring two more and leaving east London with all
three points.
There is no hiding the fact that Saturday was a frustrating, disappointing
day in many ways, but as all of us Hammers do, we must find the positives
and rally behind our men for the trip to West Brom next week.
Many of our injured men are back and perhaps this loss will be a huge
wake-up call and push us on to do better. After such a great season last
year, we will now realise that this year is completely different.
With Payet back, Antonio the league's top scorer and a number of others
looking good, we just need to shore up the defence, which has been changing
since day one because of injuries.
Some may want to forget Saturday ever happened, but the best thing to do is
keep hold of that result, the way we are capable of playing, evident from
the opening half an hour, and use it to drive us on to three points at West
Brom.
For more West Ham fan views or to join the conversation visit www.90min.com
The views in this article are those of the author and not necessarily those
of West Ham United
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
From the Newsroom
WHUFC.com
Sky Sports News reporter Paul Gilmour believes the Hammers will enjoy
another successful season, despite their surprise 4-2 home defeat against
Watford.
Gilmour was at the Club's training ground to interview Adrian on Monday and
can see there is enough quality in the squad for Slaven Bilic's side to
enjoy another top half finish.....
The result on Saturday surprised me considering the Hammers had gone 2-0 up
and with the quality they had on show.
Watford have struggled so far under Walter Mazzarri and have not been
picking up results and you were starting to fear for them.
When you see West Ham are 2-0 up you believe there is only going to be one
winner in that game. Nobody could have envisaged how the scoreline ended up.
That was a huge surprise, especially with Payet back in the team as that
would have given them a major lift as well.
We have spoken to a few West Ham players over the last few weeks and asked
them if it will be tougher this season following the success they had last
season, as teams will know they are in for a game and have stepped up their
level.
I interviewed Adrian on Monday at the Club's training ground and asked him
about the second goal following the mix-up with James Collins.
He said there was a call and they did everything right, but the
communication got lost with the crowd noise.
If you look at the season Adrian had last year, he has steadily improved
over his time here and is getting better and better.
I still think West Ham will enjoy another good season and when everyone is
fit they have a really good team.
I think it will be tougher this season based on the fact teams will raise
their game against them, but they should still finish in top half.
It is another tough game for them this weekend when they play West Brom as
they have only conceded one goal this season.
I know a lot about the defence as I cover Northern Ireland and know all
about Gareth McAuley and Jonny Evans and they have got a lot of experience
and are so well organised.
You need to be very patient when you are playing against them because Tony
Pulis will have them well drilled and disciplined.
But the Hammers have Payet back in the team and he showed against Watford
with that outrageous piece of skill what he is capable of.
It might take something like that to get through that defence because they
are stubborn opposition.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham want London Stadium police presence after crowd trouble
BBC.co.uk
West Ham have asked E20, which owns the club's London Stadium home, to
ensure there is a police presence in the ground after recent trouble. The
Hammers moved to the venue at the start of the season, but there have been
unsavoury incidents involving their fans at the past three matches. The club
confirmed that 10 fans were ejected from the stadium during the 4-2 defeat
by Watford on Saturday. West Ham have also requested more experienced
stewards.
Stewarding at the stadium is provided by LS185. At the first Premier League
match at the venue - against Bournemouth last month - some fans arrived with
tickets for seats that did not exist, while fighting broke out between rival
supporters outside the stadium. Some of the disturbances are believed to be
over persistent standing during matches and West Ham confirmed they had
received seven complaints about standing following Saturday's game against
Watford "E20 confirmed that immediate action is being taken on the issues
raised," said a West Ham club statement. "The club will work tirelessly with
them to ensure London Stadium continues to be the inclusive and
family-friendly environment that all parties have worked so hard to achieve.
"This includes a more robust and secure line of segregation between the home
and visiting fans as specified by the club. We have been assured this will
be in place ahead of the next match."
The Hammers have also appealed to supporters to report any incidents to the
club. "A blame game is now developing over the violent scenes at West Ham's
new home. "The club says the stadium's owners and matchday operator need to
bolster policing, stewarding & segregation. "However, it has also been
suggested that West Ham could have done more to plan segregated family and
singing sections, rather than prioritising the sale of season tickets, with
the mix of traditional supporters and thousands of new fans thought to have
led to tension."
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Another game, no improvements says steward
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 12th September 2016
By: Staff Writer
Another Olympic Stadium match day official has contacted KUMB.com to
register their disapproval at the standard of stewarding at the arena.
Last week, several stewards contacted KUMB to express their concerns
regarding the ability of stadium operators LS185 and security group OCS to
effectively police the ground, following a series of incidents in the first
four matches staged at the OS.
And despite LS185 having suggested to KUMB last week that improvements had
been put in place for the Watford match, there was no cessation in the
number of unsavoury incidents witrnessed inside the ground - whilst the only
additional staff noted inside the ground were match day security who have
since been accused of being "heavy handed".
The situation prompted yet another disenchanted employee to step forward and
register their concerns with KUMB. "After more than 15 years of working at
West Ham, I wasn't going to the London Stadium expecting it to be the same,"
the steward, who asked to remain anonymous, told us.
"What I was expecting however was to work with people who had been trained
in a professional manner and wanted to do a job in keeping with ground
regulations and crowd safety.
"At the Watford game I tried to engage with some of the new SIA-qualified
stewards. I introduced myself but they didn't want to engage with me. When a
colleague of mine asked staff to conduct a sweep in a unified way, the new
staff commented and asked if he was trying to earn three stripes!
"I appreciate this isn't a well-paid job but it still requires the standard
of training I received at Upton Park. This lack of training has resulted,
for example, in bags not being searched correctly on entry. This, and other
shortcomings, could seriously endanger supporters' safety.
"The majority of Boleyn Ground stewards had full time jobs and also worked
on match days because they felt a sense of loyalty to the supporters they
had gotten to know over the years - and for the love of the club and
football.
"I sympathise with all the season tickets holders and apologise to my
supporters from the Boleyn Ground, but I feel like the 'old' stewards are
fighting a lost battle. Already I;ve discovered that another two of my
colleagues won't be returning."
Tomorrow a meeting between LS185 and West Ham's vice chairman Karren Brady -
who was booed by some sections of the Olympic Stadium crowd during the
Watford match when her image was flashed on the giant screens - will take
place with view to ironing out some of the issues that has emerged as a
result of the sub-standard stewarding at the stadium.
Meanwhile Newham Council's Safety Advisory Group have called for West Ham to
prepare a report into the Watford match, which West Ham lost 4-2.
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Hammers fans views sought ahead of OS meeting
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 12th September 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United season ticket holders are being encouraged to contact
Football Supporters' Federation representative Amanda Jacks with their
experiences of the Olympic Stadium.
Next week Ms Jacks will meet with Westfield, the Newham Safety Advisory
Group and a representative from West Ham with view to resolving issues that
have arisen since the club's move from Upton Park - issues such as crowd
control, supporter safety and LS185's stewarding policy.
And she is hoping to represent the many concerns of Hammers fans who have
had cause for complaint since the club relocated to E20 this summer.
"There are a good number of thoughtful, intelligent and astute posts on KUMB
and twitter," Ms Jacks told us. "I'd like to let supporters know I have this
meeting and would encourage them to contact me directly.
"Rest assured I will do my very best to represent their interests and do
what I can to ensure that they are taken seriously.
"If nothing else, I want to leave that meeting assured that the causes of
all the issues are being properly addressed and that is it understood that
looking at supporter behaviour in isolation is far from being the solution."
You may contact Amanda Jacks via email on amanda.jacks@fsf.org.uk or via
twitter at @FSF_FairCop.
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Teething problems - or something more sinister?
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 12th September 2016
By: Tom Kilbey
Prior to our first game at Stratford, Karren Brady observed that there would
be teething problems with the new stadium, whilst encouraging fans to be the
'eyes and ears' of the board to ensure that the problems were resolved.
As a pragmatic fan who recognised the importance of moving to take us to the
next level I was slightly anxious, but excited, when I walked into the
stadium for the first time for the start of our ill fated Europa League
campaign. Since then, it has become clear that the running of the stadium
until now has been utterly shambolic. So as a fan who has sit through every,
often miserable, minute at our stadium thus far, this is what my eyes and
ears have seen so far. I'm sure Lady Brady will be thrilled to read on.
If you were to make a list of the three most important things to get right
at the stadium, fan safety would certainly feature, and would most likely be
at the top. You may think I am about to head into a rant about standing
supporters, but I am not. Rather, I am sickened at the hypocrisy of the
board towards what they call 'fan safety'. Perhaps the board think that home
and away fans walking through the same turnstiles is 'safe'. Perhaps the
fact that the board are unwilling to pay for a police presence within the
stadium is 'safe'. Just think about that.
Remember at Upton Park? There was always a large police presence standing in
the corner of the East Stand and the Sir Trev Stand. Now there are none. In
fact, police had to be called to the stadium on Saturday following the crowd
trouble. It's almost too ridiculous to be true, but it is. The board are
under a false illusion that their new branding and flashy new stadium is
going to remove the demons we've had in the past with a small section of our
support. It's naïve, and entirely irresponsible, and it's just extremely
lucky that we didn't learn this lesson against Spurs or Chelsea, because it
would not have been pretty.
In light of all of this, the board are apparently paying more attention to
the issue of fans standing at games. I could dedicate an entire article to
this, but what I will say on the matter is what 6,000 fans (of which I am
defiantly one of them) standing in the Bobby Moore Lower has absolutely no
impact on fan safety. In fact, as far as I am concerned, the issue with
standing is not about safety at all, it's about fan enjoyment. The club
unhelpfully making it about safety is ensuring that the debate is happening
on entirely the wrong level. Of course, a supporter standing in an area
where everyone around them is sitting is irresponsible, and the mantra that
"we'll stand where we want" is entirely anti-social and doesn't reflect what
happened at Upton Park.
My point here is not to debate whether fans should be allowed to stand or
not. But to claim that persistent standing, and the safety risk it poses, is
the cause for the 54,000 capacity cap is absolutely ludicrous, as if the
other issues we have (like fans fighting) doesn't impact on this. And while
I am conscious to avoid conspiracy theories, have we seen any evidence
whatsoever that the stadium operators have blamed the fans, and not the
general running of the stadium, for the capacity cap?
All of this is symptomatic of a larger problem. I have never witnessed so
much disunity among our own fans, and this is the most worrying thing for
me. Fans arguing amongst themselves has become entirely commonplace, and
this is not good. I even found myself getting irritated by people around me
who ate their popcorn in silence for 75 minutes before walking out as
Watford's fifth goal went in, only for it to be disallowed and have them
sheepishly returning to their seats.
We have to accept that there are 20,000 new fans in our stadium each game,
and the familiarity of our old stadium will take a while to shake off.
Ultimately it is a good thing for the club to be opened up to supporters,
especially families, that could not afford to attend last season. The issue
is that the running of the stadium until now, and the toxic atmosphere that
I've witnessed a couple of times already, will be deterring those fans who
the board were so eager to move to Stratford to attract.
The standing debate has divided us, and the unfamiliar surroundings we find
ourselves in during games make us distrusting. This, again, is certainly not
helped by the board's approach to victimise those fans who stand, socially,
for instance in the BML. At this moment, 'United' is not a word we could use
to describe ourselves. So while the brunt of this article is on the running
of the stadium, the fans themselves, of course, have to take responsibility
too.
Enough on standing, there are plenty of other horrendous problems with the
stadium. Take the stewarding for one. Stewards at Upton Park had largely
been there for several years, and many were West Ham fans. They had
experience of stewarding West Ham games, and they understood the unwritten
rules at the Boleyn. Now we have agency staff who I genuinely feel sorry
for. They face an impossible job trying to carry out their mission of
ensuring everyone sits.
Most of them probably detest football fans and would rather be anywhere but
inside the stadium. They have next to no power to do anything; for instance
they cannot arrest anyone, so even if they remove people from the stadium
who may be fighting, the best they could do in the absence of a police
presence would be to eject them from the stadium, presumably to continue
their scuffle outside. The stadium operators appear to take the view that
stewarding a football game is the same as stewarding a Michael Buble
concert. And while the board might wish the fans were as well behaved,
again, a refusal to acknowledge their blatant delusions is again, entirely
irresponsible.
I also note that the method in which tickets have been sold for games has
been entirely counter-intuitive. I would love for someone to explain to me
why there are blocks of seats entirely empty, completely surrounded by
blocks that are full of fans. Who took the decision to not sell those seats?
Why not fill those ones, and make some more empty seats up in the Gods? And
then, in spite of this, why were fans sold tickets in seats that did not
exist? I genuinely wonder if there is anyone at the club who could answer
this.
Finally, and this is perhaps the biggest joke of the lot, I turn my
attention to the roof. The largest roof of its kind in the world, the tax
payer spent a mere £190m to transform the stadium into one where acoustics
would be world leading and every seat would be covered. By a 2014 Daily Mail
estimate, this cost is roughly three times the proposed sale price of the
Boleyn Ground. 17 rows back in the lower tier, I was fully exposed to the
rain. On a windy day, where rain was driving into us, I would have accepted
it. But the rain was hitting me on the back of the head. Plainly the roof
doesn't work. I look forward to the ridicule the club will face when the
rain really comes down in February, and fans are forced to resort to a £5
umbrella to do the job that a £190m roof was supposed to do.
Jack Sullivan recently assured fans that every possible issue is being
looked at. To the board's credit, they have begun remedying some of the
problems, albeit problems that should never have allowed to exist in the
first place. However, this unfortunately does not excuse the board of being
continually guilty of gross negligence on fans' safety, whilst accusing
standing fans for the very same thing. Brady was proved right with her
warning, but there is only so long that these recent events can be called
'teething problems' and not 'plainly shambolic'.
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West Ham ask London Stadium owners for police presence at games
By Andy Charles
Last Updated: 12/09/16 9:20pm
SSN
West Ham have demanded a police presence for games at the London Stadium
after trouble marred Saturday's match against Watford. The Hammers confirmed
on Monday evening that a total of 10 supporters were ejected from the
stadium during the 4-2 Premier League defeat with nearly 50 complaints made
over standing in seated areas and anti-social behaviour. No arrests were
made, but the club has asked fans to report all incidents to the club
directly as they attempt to cut down the level of anti-social behaviour
inside their new home.
A club statement read: "West Ham United undertook a full investigation into
the crowd issues immediately after Saturday's game with Watford and today
held a productive meeting with stadium owners E20. "Whilst West Ham United
do not hold the Safety Certificate (this is held by stadium operators LS185)
or control the security at the stadium, the club is doing everything
possible within its jurisdiction to help provide a safe and enjoyable
environment for all supporters. "It is important that we recognise the vast
majority who have attended the first five fixtures played at London Stadium
have been outstanding with their behaviour and support. They, like all at
West Ham United, do not want their reputation or the club's to be tarnished
by the minority. "Today, the club have insisted that E20 guarantee a police
presence in the Stadium. "In addition, the club have also specified a number
of essential important improvements to match day operations moving forward,
including the need for LS185 to bolster the stewarding and security
operation in terms of numbers, but also in terms of the level training and
experience they have dealing with Premier League football matches. "E20
confirmed today that immediate action is being taken on the issues raised.
The club will work tirelessly with them to ensure London Stadium continues
to be the inclusive and family-friendly environment that all parties have
worked so hard to achieve.
"This includes a more robust and secure line of segregation between the home
and visiting fans as specified by the club. We have been assured this will
be in place ahead of the next match. "The club has already taken action to
improve all match day elements within their control, including the
relocation of young children and families from areas where the fans are more
vociferous and the issuing of season long bans for supporters engaging in
anti-social behaviour. "The club is working hard to move like minded
supporters into areas to enhance their match day experience. This process
commenced ahead of the Watford game and has already proved successful in key
areas. The club will continue prioritising this approach around the
stadium."
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Adrián says West Ham did not disrespect Watford players on Saturday
By Allan Valente
Last Updated: 12/09/16 3:45pm
SSN
Adrián has dismissed Troy Deeney's claim that West Ham tried to "mug us off"
in Watford's 4-2 win on Saturday. Dimitri Payet set up Michail Antonio's
second goal with a 'rabona' cross, while Manuel Lanzini had also attempted a
shot using the same technique. While able to appreciate skill, Deeney seemed
to suggest that such moments only served to fire his side up to come back
from two goals down to win the game but the West Ham goalkeeper said there
was no intention of showing any disrespect to their opponents. "If you can
use skill on the pitch and it gives an advantage then it is great for us,"
he told Sky Sports News HQ. "I don't know if the Watford players were angry
but Lanzini tried his [rabona] because he has more confidence in his other
foot. Nobody can say this is disrespect."
The Spaniard also backed Claudio Bravo after his debut in the Manchester
derby over the weekend and said he believes goalkeepers play in the most
unforgiving position. "I think the goalkeeper position is the most difficult
on the pitch because you have the limits with the risk and mistakes," he
said. "You can make great saves but, if you make one mistake, everyone wants
to remember the mistake and you are alone just in front of the goal. "I
think Bravo's debut, probably he hoped to be much better but they won the
derby so he is probably happy with his debut and also for Joe Hart, it is a
new experience in the Italian league, a new moment for him in his career so
I wish him all the best."
Adrián also said the move to London Stadium is a step in the right direction
for West Ham and is keen to see the side settle there as quickly as
possible. "London Stadium is a massive stadium and if the club wants to grow
it's a great step for us," he said. "If we can settle there as soon as
possible, the players and the fans, we can be happy there." Watch Chelsea v
Liverpool on Friday Night Football, the Ryder Cup and the EFL Cup as part of
our three months' half-price offer.
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West Ham manager Slaven Bilic vows to 'turn situation around' after third
Premier League loss this season
Slaven Bilic insists West Ham have not become poor team over night
He said: We will get together, work hard and turn this situation around'
West Ham have lost to Chelsea, Manchester City and Watford
Bilic's team threw away two-goal lead at home to lose 4-2 against Hornets
By WILL GRIFFEE FOR MAILONLINE
PUBLISHED: 11:28, 12 September 2016 | UPDATED: 11:29, 12 September 2016
Slaven Bilic has called for calm after his side's underwhelming start to the
season and promised to change West Ham's fortunes. The manager watched on as
his side capitulated against Watford, throwing away a two-goal advantage to
lose 4-2. It proved to be the third loss of the season for Bilic's team in
the Premier League but he remains confident he can turn it around.
WEST HAM'S NEXT FIVE PREMIER LEAGUE GAMES
September 17 vs West Brom (A)
September 25 vs Southampton (H)
October 1 vs Middlesbrough (H)
October 15 vs Crystal Palace (A)
October 22 vs Sunderland (H)
Bilic told the West Ham website: 'We have a team that did so well last year
and had leaders and pace and tactical discipline and everything. 'Now, we
aren't going to say that the same team is missing leaders and all that. We
will get together, work hard and turn this situation around. 'There's no
point in talking about leadership on the pitch or moving grounds and all
that, because it didn't stop us beating Bournemouth.' After a positive start
against Watford, Bilic criticised the goals conceded by West Ham, feeling
they were soft and could have been defended better. 'We had the game under
complete control and they didn't hurt us. 'We were good and created even
more chances, but then from our point of view, we conceded two goals which
were far too easy for them to score.'I am concerned by the defending because
we couldn't cope. 'You can't win many games in the Premier League if you
defend like that.'
Bilic also noted the change in mentality of his players once they saw the
lead slip away from them. 'Sometimes I can understand that happening, but
not on Saturday. 'The level of some players' confidence depends on the
scoreline. 'On the one hand it's understandable, but on the other hand it
can't happen.'
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
West Ham United undertook a full investigation into the crowd issues
immediately after Saturday's game with Watford and today held a productive
meeting with stadium owners E20.
Whilst West Ham United do not hold the Safety Certificate (this is held by
LS185) or control the security at the stadium, the Club is doing everything
possible within its jurisdiction to help provide a safe and enjoyable
environment for all supporters.
It is important that we recognise the vast majority who have attended the
first five fixtures played at London Stadium have been outstanding with
their behaviour and support. They, like all at West Ham United, do not want
their reputation or the Club's to be tarnished by the minority.
Today, the Club have insisted that E20 guarantee a police presence in the
Stadium.
In addition, the Club have also specified a number of essential important
improvements to match day operations moving forward, including the need for
LS185 to bolster the stewarding and security operation in terms of numbers,
but also in terms of the level training and experience they have dealing
with Premier League football matches.
E20 confirmed today that immediate action is being taken on the issues
raised. The Club will work tirelessly with them to ensure London Stadium
continues to be the inclusive and family-friendly environment that all
parties have worked so hard to achieve.
This includes a more robust and secure line of segregation between the home
and visiting fans as specified by the Club. We have been assured this will
be in place ahead of the next match.
The Club has already taken action to improve all match day elements within
their control, including the relocation of young children and families from
areas where the fans are more vociferous and the issuing of season long bans
for supporters engaging in antisocial behaviour.
The Club is working hard to move likeminded supporters into areas to enhance
their match day experience. This process commenced ahead of the Watford game
and has already proved successful in key areas. The Club will continue
prioritising this approach around the stadium.
In relation to Saturday's match against Watford:
• 10 individuals were ejected from the Stadium.
• No arrests were made.
• The Club received seven complaints in relation to standing, although 40
reports were received in relation to the antisocial behaviour in the stands.
The Club would appeal to supporters to report any incidents directly to the
Club, as all reported complaints and incidents are fully investigated, in
conjunction with a full review of CCTV footage from the day, with a view to
issuing further bans where appropriate.
Supporters are requested to provide as much information as possible, as the
more intelligence the Club have the more proactive and focused all efforts
to clamp down on antisocial behaviour will be. The Club will act on every
piece of evidence all of which will be collated and treated in the strictest
of confidence.
The Club now appeals to all supporters to come together and support West Ham
in the famous way we have historically been so proud of.
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Manager on Monday
WUFC.com
Slaven Bilic insists West Ham United have not become a bad side overnight.
The Hammers have lost three of their first four Premier League matches and
sit in the lower reaches of the table following a 4-2 home defeat by Watford
on Saturday. Manager Bilic is refusing to panic, though, and says his squad
still have the qualities which helped them mount a sustained challenge for a
top-four finish last season. "We have a team that did so well last year and
had leaders and pace and tactical discipline and everything," he said. "Now,
we aren't going to say that the same team is missing leaders and all that.
We will get together, work hard and turn this situation around. "There's no
point in talking about leadership on the pitch or moving grounds and all
that, because it didn't stop us beating Bournemouth."
Reflecting on Saturday's loss to the Hornets, which saw Walter Mazzarri's
side come from two goals down to win at London Stadium, Bilic said Watford's
two goals in five minutes before half-time drained the confidence from his
players. West Ham looked set to make it two home wins from two when Michail
Antonio headed in a pair of Dimitri Payet crosses, only for defensive lapses
to enable Odion Ighalo and Troy Deeney to level things up.
With the Hammers struggling to regain their composure, Watford scored twice
more through Etienne Capoue and Jose Holebas to complete what Bilic
described as a 'difficult' afternoon.
"We had a difficult afternoon on Saturday," he confirmed. "We started really
well and had five chances in the first 20 minutes, and to be fair they had
two as well. After that it was all us until the last five minutes of the
first half, when they scored two goals. "We had the game under complete
control and they didn't hurt us. We were good and created even more chances,
but then from our point of view, we conceded two goals which were far too
easy for them to score. I am concerned by the defending because we couldn't
cope. "You can't win many games in the Premier League if you defend like
that."
While Bilic conceded that conceding two quickfire goals before half-time had
drained confidence from his team, he is eager that the same situation not
happen again. "Obviously the players were in shock at half-time and we tried
to ease them down. OK, it was 2-2 but we still had 45 minutes, but it was
because of those two goals at the end of the first half that some players
lost their confidence. "Sometimes I can understand that happening, but not
on Saturday. The level of some players' confidence depends on the scoreline
– they are OK when they are 2-0 up or something but, as soon as the opponent
scores a couple of goals like happened on Saturday, it drops. "On the one
hand it's understandable, but on the other hand it can't happen."
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Antonio & Martinez take monthly awards
WHUFC.com
Michail Antonio named whufc.com Player of the Month after outstanding August
Winger took 57 percent of the fan vote
Youngster Antonio Martinez wins Goal of the Month for stunning strike at
Coventry City
Michail Antonio and Antonio Martinez are the Hammers' first Player and Goal
of the Month award winners of the season. The pair were both clear winners
in the fan votes for August on whufc.com, with Antonio taking 57 percent of
the vote for Player of the Month and Martinez 44 percent in the Goal of the
Month poll for his stunner in the Checkatrade Trophy tie at Coventry City.
Antonio's honour was richly deserved after the 26-year-old made a huge
impact in August, scoring the Club's first Premier League goal at London
Stadium – and a late winner at that against AFC Bournemouth – and heading
home from Arthur Masuaku's cross at Manchester City. His form was also
recognised by new England manager Sam Allardyce, who called him up for the
Three Lions for the first time as they took on Slovakia in a FIFA World Cup
qualifier.
Antonio beat left-back Masuaku in to second place, after the Frenchman
polled 26 percent in his first month as a Hammer. Cheikhou Kouyate rounded
out the top three. In the Goal of the Month vote, Spanish youngster
Martinez's superb volley at the Ricoh Arena clinched the top prize. In
second was James Collins' fierce strike in the Premier League opener at
Chelsea – with 29 percent of the vote – while Sofiane Feghouli was third
with his strike against NK Domzale.
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Noble - We have to stay positive
WHUFC.com
West Ham United captain Mark Noble insists the players have got to stay
positive and make amends for the disappointing home defeat against Watford
on Saturday. The Hammers were in pole position to win the game after Michail
Antonio had scored a brace in the opening 33 minutes. But Watford managed to
score two late goals in the first half to draw level and then went on to win
the game comfortably in the second half. Despite the disappointment, Noble
says the players will be doing everything to get straight back on the
winning trail and hopes the return of key players such as Dimitri Payet and
Manuel Lanzini can help them get another positive result when they travel to
play West Brom on Saturday. Noble said: "That is the best we have played for
a long while, in the first half. A couple of mistakes have cost us and we
couldn't recover. "If we can go in 2-0 up at half-time it is a different
game, but the mistakes have cost us in the end. "There is a long way to go
and we have to stay positive. "We got punished and have to learn our
lessons. We have still got new players coming in learning the league and we
have a lot of players in their second season "We have got players coming
back from injury like Manu and Dimi. We have got to take the positives and
played fantastic in the first half, but we conceded silly goals."
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Five Talking Points
WHUFC.com
Michail Antonio's goalscoring, Dimitri Payet's return and Simone Zaza's
debut are among today's topics for discussion...
Dimi's back!
While he ended up on the losing side, there is no doubt that Dimitri Payet's
return made West Ham United into a far more potent attacking force. The
France international set up both of Michail Antonio's first-half goals – the
second with an outrageous Rabona – and made six key passes overall. Payet
also touched the ball 91 times – 19 more than any other player on the pitch
– put in a team-high eight crosses and unleashed five shots on the Watford
goal. If that type of output continues, the No27 will undoubtedly keep
creating and start scoring goals going forward.
Michail's using his head (again)
Michail Antonio is by no means a giant of a man, but his goalscoring record
since his arrival at West Ham United suggests he is the best header of the
ball in the Premier League.
The No30 has nodded in ten goals since the start of the 2015/16 season,
three ahead of Arsenal's Olivier Giroud and five more than teammate Andy
Carroll. Antonio's athleticism and spring give him an advantage over many
defenders, but it is his anticipation, movement and willingness to come off
his wing to get inside the far post to attack crosses that set him apart
from his fellow Premier League widemen. The Londoner's start to the season
suggest his scoring ratio from last season is sustainable, so long as he
keeps using his head!
A promising debut
He might not have scored, and picked up a unique booking for slapping the
ball into the face of his marker, but Simone Zaza's debut was still a
promising one. The Italy striker had one shot, made three key passes and
touched the ball 34 times, while his willingness to run the channels, link
up play with his pack to goal and work hard to regain possession were
appreciated by the Claret and Blue Army. Zaza's chemistry with the creative
forces behind him will only improve with game-time, too.
Ch-ch-ch-ch-Changes?
Whenever your team loses a football match, supporters demand an inquest into
what went wrong and, more often than not, changes to the team. With players
returning from injury and full internationals manning the substitutes' bench
during the 4-2 Premier League defeat by Watford, Slaven Bilic certainly has
the option of shaking up his starting XI for Saturday's trip to West
Bromwich Albion. Republic of Ireland goalkeeper Darren Randolph, Italy
centre-half Angelo Ogbonna and Norway defensive midfielder Havard Nordtveit
went unused against the Hornets as Bilic sent on attacking replacements as
West Ham chased the game. All three could be called upon at The Hawthorns,
where Bilic could be tempted to play a less attack-minded team from the
start. Alternatively, the manager insisted his team have not lost the
ability and confidence they showed last season, and he may therefore choose
to keep faith with those who started the game so well on Saturday.
Don't panic!
Last season, West Ham United lost two of their opening three Premier League
matches, but bounced back to spend virtually the whole season in the top
half of the table. The Hammers were beaten on home turf by Leicester City
and AFC Bournemouth, but did not panic and bounced back to win five and draw
two of their next seven league matches. That run started with a 3-0 win at
Liverpool so why, with a stronger squad on paper than a year ago, can't West
Ham pull off a similarly impressive result at West Bromwich Albion this
weekend and start another unbeaten run? Having won 3-0 at The Hawthorns as
recently as 30 April, too, the Hammers will have fond memories of their last
trip to face the Baggies. The underlying message is – don't panic!
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Loanee round-up
WHUFC.com
A host of Hammers made appearances for their on-loan clubs this weekend
Reece Burke made his Wigan Athletic debut in the Championship on Saturday
Enner Valencia could make his Everton debut at Sunderland on Monday evening
Four West Ham United youngesters featured for their respective loan clubs in
the English Football League over the weekend.
Reece Burke made his Wigan Athletic debut on Saturday when the Latics lost
2-1 at Sheffield Wednesday in the Championship. The 20-year-old centre-back
completed the full 90 minutes as Fernando Forestieri scored a second-half
winner to secure three points for the Owls. Kyle Knoyle is also on loan at
Wigan, but did not feature in the defeat as he continues his recovery from
injury.
After returning from duty with the Norway senior squad over the
international break, Martin Samuelsen came on as a late substitute as
Blackburn Rovers earned just their second point of the season with a 1-1
draw at Queens Park Rangers. Tjaronn Chery gave Rangers the lead in their
Championship clash at Loftus Road with an exquisite free-kick before Sam
Gallagher netted a late equaliser to earn a valuable point for Rovers.
Josh Cullen played his part once again as Bradford City maintained their
unbeaten start to their League One season with a 1-1 draw at Gillingham in
League One. Cody McDonald scored early on for the Gills, but Jordy
Hiwula-Mayifuila equalised for the Bantams at the Priestfield Stadium.
Another Hammers loanee featured in the match – Josh Pask, who's with
Gillingham, came on as a late substitute for McDonald.
Also in League One, left-back Lewis Page played just over an hour for
Coventry City as they drew 1-1 at Millwall, where Lions striker Aiden
O'Brien cancelled out Marvin Sordell's strike with 20 minutes to play.
Elsewhere, George Dobson was an unused substitute as Walsall lost 2-0 away
at Northampton Town.
Meanwhile, Luka Belic and Doneill Henry both did not feature for their new
clubs. Belic's Motherwell drew 1-1 at Ross County in the Scottish
Premiership, while Henry's new Danish side AC Horsens won 4-2 away at Viborg
in the Super League.
Looking ahead, Enner Valencia could make his Everton debut on Monday evening
when they face Sunderland in the Premier League, live on Sky Sports.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
From the Terraces
WHUFC.com
Fan blogger Joe Difford looks back at Saturday's game against Watford…
After the well-timed international break, Slaven Bilic and his players were
mostly fit and raring to go against Watford in the second Premier League
game at the London Stadium.
However, a shocking thirty minutes saw us throw away a two-goal lead where
we were completely in control.
It may seem difficult to find any positives in Saturday afternoon's clash,
especially because we were in complete control in the opening exchanges. But
the Premier League is a marathon, not a sprint, and it is far better to iron
out these issues in the first few weeks of the campaign.
After receiving his first England call up, Michail Antonio was raring to go
and nodded home from a Dimitri Payet corner after just five minutes. The
winger has scored more headed goals in the past year than anyone else in the
league, and added yet another shortly after.
This time, we were treated to an outrageous, audacious piece of skill from
Payet on his return, as his rabona cross floated perfectly for Antonio to
head home at the back post.
Result aside, it is amazing to see Payet back in Claret and Blue, and if he
can provide more assists for Antonio, the new England recruit should finally
get on the pitch for Sam Allardyce's side in the next set of internationals.
Manuel Lanzini was full of energy as usual, as he almost scored a goal with
a similar bit of skill to Payet's cross, but it bobbled wide. Simone Zaza
showed off some impressive hold-up play on his debut, just a month after
scoring here when Juventus visited in pre season.
As we approached half time however, everything seemed to fall apart and
Watford bagged two in quick succession, one an unfortunate mix-up between
James Collins and Adrian.
Having conceded two just before the break, we came back out a little jaded,
and Watford capitalised, scoring two more and leaving east London with all
three points.
There is no hiding the fact that Saturday was a frustrating, disappointing
day in many ways, but as all of us Hammers do, we must find the positives
and rally behind our men for the trip to West Brom next week.
Many of our injured men are back and perhaps this loss will be a huge
wake-up call and push us on to do better. After such a great season last
year, we will now realise that this year is completely different.
With Payet back, Antonio the league's top scorer and a number of others
looking good, we just need to shore up the defence, which has been changing
since day one because of injuries.
Some may want to forget Saturday ever happened, but the best thing to do is
keep hold of that result, the way we are capable of playing, evident from
the opening half an hour, and use it to drive us on to three points at West
Brom.
For more West Ham fan views or to join the conversation visit www.90min.com
The views in this article are those of the author and not necessarily those
of West Ham United
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From the Newsroom
WHUFC.com
Sky Sports News reporter Paul Gilmour believes the Hammers will enjoy
another successful season, despite their surprise 4-2 home defeat against
Watford.
Gilmour was at the Club's training ground to interview Adrian on Monday and
can see there is enough quality in the squad for Slaven Bilic's side to
enjoy another top half finish.....
The result on Saturday surprised me considering the Hammers had gone 2-0 up
and with the quality they had on show.
Watford have struggled so far under Walter Mazzarri and have not been
picking up results and you were starting to fear for them.
When you see West Ham are 2-0 up you believe there is only going to be one
winner in that game. Nobody could have envisaged how the scoreline ended up.
That was a huge surprise, especially with Payet back in the team as that
would have given them a major lift as well.
We have spoken to a few West Ham players over the last few weeks and asked
them if it will be tougher this season following the success they had last
season, as teams will know they are in for a game and have stepped up their
level.
I interviewed Adrian on Monday at the Club's training ground and asked him
about the second goal following the mix-up with James Collins.
He said there was a call and they did everything right, but the
communication got lost with the crowd noise.
If you look at the season Adrian had last year, he has steadily improved
over his time here and is getting better and better.
I still think West Ham will enjoy another good season and when everyone is
fit they have a really good team.
I think it will be tougher this season based on the fact teams will raise
their game against them, but they should still finish in top half.
It is another tough game for them this weekend when they play West Brom as
they have only conceded one goal this season.
I know a lot about the defence as I cover Northern Ireland and know all
about Gareth McAuley and Jonny Evans and they have got a lot of experience
and are so well organised.
You need to be very patient when you are playing against them because Tony
Pulis will have them well drilled and disciplined.
But the Hammers have Payet back in the team and he showed against Watford
with that outrageous piece of skill what he is capable of.
It might take something like that to get through that defence because they
are stubborn opposition.
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West Ham want London Stadium police presence after crowd trouble
BBC.co.uk
West Ham have asked E20, which owns the club's London Stadium home, to
ensure there is a police presence in the ground after recent trouble. The
Hammers moved to the venue at the start of the season, but there have been
unsavoury incidents involving their fans at the past three matches. The club
confirmed that 10 fans were ejected from the stadium during the 4-2 defeat
by Watford on Saturday. West Ham have also requested more experienced
stewards.
Stewarding at the stadium is provided by LS185. At the first Premier League
match at the venue - against Bournemouth last month - some fans arrived with
tickets for seats that did not exist, while fighting broke out between rival
supporters outside the stadium. Some of the disturbances are believed to be
over persistent standing during matches and West Ham confirmed they had
received seven complaints about standing following Saturday's game against
Watford "E20 confirmed that immediate action is being taken on the issues
raised," said a West Ham club statement. "The club will work tirelessly with
them to ensure London Stadium continues to be the inclusive and
family-friendly environment that all parties have worked so hard to achieve.
"This includes a more robust and secure line of segregation between the home
and visiting fans as specified by the club. We have been assured this will
be in place ahead of the next match."
The Hammers have also appealed to supporters to report any incidents to the
club. "A blame game is now developing over the violent scenes at West Ham's
new home. "The club says the stadium's owners and matchday operator need to
bolster policing, stewarding & segregation. "However, it has also been
suggested that West Ham could have done more to plan segregated family and
singing sections, rather than prioritising the sale of season tickets, with
the mix of traditional supporters and thousands of new fans thought to have
led to tension."
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Another game, no improvements says steward
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 12th September 2016
By: Staff Writer
Another Olympic Stadium match day official has contacted KUMB.com to
register their disapproval at the standard of stewarding at the arena.
Last week, several stewards contacted KUMB to express their concerns
regarding the ability of stadium operators LS185 and security group OCS to
effectively police the ground, following a series of incidents in the first
four matches staged at the OS.
And despite LS185 having suggested to KUMB last week that improvements had
been put in place for the Watford match, there was no cessation in the
number of unsavoury incidents witrnessed inside the ground - whilst the only
additional staff noted inside the ground were match day security who have
since been accused of being "heavy handed".
The situation prompted yet another disenchanted employee to step forward and
register their concerns with KUMB. "After more than 15 years of working at
West Ham, I wasn't going to the London Stadium expecting it to be the same,"
the steward, who asked to remain anonymous, told us.
"What I was expecting however was to work with people who had been trained
in a professional manner and wanted to do a job in keeping with ground
regulations and crowd safety.
"At the Watford game I tried to engage with some of the new SIA-qualified
stewards. I introduced myself but they didn't want to engage with me. When a
colleague of mine asked staff to conduct a sweep in a unified way, the new
staff commented and asked if he was trying to earn three stripes!
"I appreciate this isn't a well-paid job but it still requires the standard
of training I received at Upton Park. This lack of training has resulted,
for example, in bags not being searched correctly on entry. This, and other
shortcomings, could seriously endanger supporters' safety.
"The majority of Boleyn Ground stewards had full time jobs and also worked
on match days because they felt a sense of loyalty to the supporters they
had gotten to know over the years - and for the love of the club and
football.
"I sympathise with all the season tickets holders and apologise to my
supporters from the Boleyn Ground, but I feel like the 'old' stewards are
fighting a lost battle. Already I;ve discovered that another two of my
colleagues won't be returning."
Tomorrow a meeting between LS185 and West Ham's vice chairman Karren Brady -
who was booed by some sections of the Olympic Stadium crowd during the
Watford match when her image was flashed on the giant screens - will take
place with view to ironing out some of the issues that has emerged as a
result of the sub-standard stewarding at the stadium.
Meanwhile Newham Council's Safety Advisory Group have called for West Ham to
prepare a report into the Watford match, which West Ham lost 4-2.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers fans views sought ahead of OS meeting
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 12th September 2016
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United season ticket holders are being encouraged to contact
Football Supporters' Federation representative Amanda Jacks with their
experiences of the Olympic Stadium.
Next week Ms Jacks will meet with Westfield, the Newham Safety Advisory
Group and a representative from West Ham with view to resolving issues that
have arisen since the club's move from Upton Park - issues such as crowd
control, supporter safety and LS185's stewarding policy.
And she is hoping to represent the many concerns of Hammers fans who have
had cause for complaint since the club relocated to E20 this summer.
"There are a good number of thoughtful, intelligent and astute posts on KUMB
and twitter," Ms Jacks told us. "I'd like to let supporters know I have this
meeting and would encourage them to contact me directly.
"Rest assured I will do my very best to represent their interests and do
what I can to ensure that they are taken seriously.
"If nothing else, I want to leave that meeting assured that the causes of
all the issues are being properly addressed and that is it understood that
looking at supporter behaviour in isolation is far from being the solution."
You may contact Amanda Jacks via email on amanda.jacks@fsf.org.uk or via
twitter at @FSF_FairCop.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Teething problems - or something more sinister?
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 12th September 2016
By: Tom Kilbey
Prior to our first game at Stratford, Karren Brady observed that there would
be teething problems with the new stadium, whilst encouraging fans to be the
'eyes and ears' of the board to ensure that the problems were resolved.
As a pragmatic fan who recognised the importance of moving to take us to the
next level I was slightly anxious, but excited, when I walked into the
stadium for the first time for the start of our ill fated Europa League
campaign. Since then, it has become clear that the running of the stadium
until now has been utterly shambolic. So as a fan who has sit through every,
often miserable, minute at our stadium thus far, this is what my eyes and
ears have seen so far. I'm sure Lady Brady will be thrilled to read on.
If you were to make a list of the three most important things to get right
at the stadium, fan safety would certainly feature, and would most likely be
at the top. You may think I am about to head into a rant about standing
supporters, but I am not. Rather, I am sickened at the hypocrisy of the
board towards what they call 'fan safety'. Perhaps the board think that home
and away fans walking through the same turnstiles is 'safe'. Perhaps the
fact that the board are unwilling to pay for a police presence within the
stadium is 'safe'. Just think about that.
Remember at Upton Park? There was always a large police presence standing in
the corner of the East Stand and the Sir Trev Stand. Now there are none. In
fact, police had to be called to the stadium on Saturday following the crowd
trouble. It's almost too ridiculous to be true, but it is. The board are
under a false illusion that their new branding and flashy new stadium is
going to remove the demons we've had in the past with a small section of our
support. It's naïve, and entirely irresponsible, and it's just extremely
lucky that we didn't learn this lesson against Spurs or Chelsea, because it
would not have been pretty.
In light of all of this, the board are apparently paying more attention to
the issue of fans standing at games. I could dedicate an entire article to
this, but what I will say on the matter is what 6,000 fans (of which I am
defiantly one of them) standing in the Bobby Moore Lower has absolutely no
impact on fan safety. In fact, as far as I am concerned, the issue with
standing is not about safety at all, it's about fan enjoyment. The club
unhelpfully making it about safety is ensuring that the debate is happening
on entirely the wrong level. Of course, a supporter standing in an area
where everyone around them is sitting is irresponsible, and the mantra that
"we'll stand where we want" is entirely anti-social and doesn't reflect what
happened at Upton Park.
My point here is not to debate whether fans should be allowed to stand or
not. But to claim that persistent standing, and the safety risk it poses, is
the cause for the 54,000 capacity cap is absolutely ludicrous, as if the
other issues we have (like fans fighting) doesn't impact on this. And while
I am conscious to avoid conspiracy theories, have we seen any evidence
whatsoever that the stadium operators have blamed the fans, and not the
general running of the stadium, for the capacity cap?
All of this is symptomatic of a larger problem. I have never witnessed so
much disunity among our own fans, and this is the most worrying thing for
me. Fans arguing amongst themselves has become entirely commonplace, and
this is not good. I even found myself getting irritated by people around me
who ate their popcorn in silence for 75 minutes before walking out as
Watford's fifth goal went in, only for it to be disallowed and have them
sheepishly returning to their seats.
We have to accept that there are 20,000 new fans in our stadium each game,
and the familiarity of our old stadium will take a while to shake off.
Ultimately it is a good thing for the club to be opened up to supporters,
especially families, that could not afford to attend last season. The issue
is that the running of the stadium until now, and the toxic atmosphere that
I've witnessed a couple of times already, will be deterring those fans who
the board were so eager to move to Stratford to attract.
The standing debate has divided us, and the unfamiliar surroundings we find
ourselves in during games make us distrusting. This, again, is certainly not
helped by the board's approach to victimise those fans who stand, socially,
for instance in the BML. At this moment, 'United' is not a word we could use
to describe ourselves. So while the brunt of this article is on the running
of the stadium, the fans themselves, of course, have to take responsibility
too.
Enough on standing, there are plenty of other horrendous problems with the
stadium. Take the stewarding for one. Stewards at Upton Park had largely
been there for several years, and many were West Ham fans. They had
experience of stewarding West Ham games, and they understood the unwritten
rules at the Boleyn. Now we have agency staff who I genuinely feel sorry
for. They face an impossible job trying to carry out their mission of
ensuring everyone sits.
Most of them probably detest football fans and would rather be anywhere but
inside the stadium. They have next to no power to do anything; for instance
they cannot arrest anyone, so even if they remove people from the stadium
who may be fighting, the best they could do in the absence of a police
presence would be to eject them from the stadium, presumably to continue
their scuffle outside. The stadium operators appear to take the view that
stewarding a football game is the same as stewarding a Michael Buble
concert. And while the board might wish the fans were as well behaved,
again, a refusal to acknowledge their blatant delusions is again, entirely
irresponsible.
I also note that the method in which tickets have been sold for games has
been entirely counter-intuitive. I would love for someone to explain to me
why there are blocks of seats entirely empty, completely surrounded by
blocks that are full of fans. Who took the decision to not sell those seats?
Why not fill those ones, and make some more empty seats up in the Gods? And
then, in spite of this, why were fans sold tickets in seats that did not
exist? I genuinely wonder if there is anyone at the club who could answer
this.
Finally, and this is perhaps the biggest joke of the lot, I turn my
attention to the roof. The largest roof of its kind in the world, the tax
payer spent a mere £190m to transform the stadium into one where acoustics
would be world leading and every seat would be covered. By a 2014 Daily Mail
estimate, this cost is roughly three times the proposed sale price of the
Boleyn Ground. 17 rows back in the lower tier, I was fully exposed to the
rain. On a windy day, where rain was driving into us, I would have accepted
it. But the rain was hitting me on the back of the head. Plainly the roof
doesn't work. I look forward to the ridicule the club will face when the
rain really comes down in February, and fans are forced to resort to a £5
umbrella to do the job that a £190m roof was supposed to do.
Jack Sullivan recently assured fans that every possible issue is being
looked at. To the board's credit, they have begun remedying some of the
problems, albeit problems that should never have allowed to exist in the
first place. However, this unfortunately does not excuse the board of being
continually guilty of gross negligence on fans' safety, whilst accusing
standing fans for the very same thing. Brady was proved right with her
warning, but there is only so long that these recent events can be called
'teething problems' and not 'plainly shambolic'.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham ask London Stadium owners for police presence at games
By Andy Charles
Last Updated: 12/09/16 9:20pm
SSN
West Ham have demanded a police presence for games at the London Stadium
after trouble marred Saturday's match against Watford. The Hammers confirmed
on Monday evening that a total of 10 supporters were ejected from the
stadium during the 4-2 Premier League defeat with nearly 50 complaints made
over standing in seated areas and anti-social behaviour. No arrests were
made, but the club has asked fans to report all incidents to the club
directly as they attempt to cut down the level of anti-social behaviour
inside their new home.
A club statement read: "West Ham United undertook a full investigation into
the crowd issues immediately after Saturday's game with Watford and today
held a productive meeting with stadium owners E20. "Whilst West Ham United
do not hold the Safety Certificate (this is held by stadium operators LS185)
or control the security at the stadium, the club is doing everything
possible within its jurisdiction to help provide a safe and enjoyable
environment for all supporters. "It is important that we recognise the vast
majority who have attended the first five fixtures played at London Stadium
have been outstanding with their behaviour and support. They, like all at
West Ham United, do not want their reputation or the club's to be tarnished
by the minority. "Today, the club have insisted that E20 guarantee a police
presence in the Stadium. "In addition, the club have also specified a number
of essential important improvements to match day operations moving forward,
including the need for LS185 to bolster the stewarding and security
operation in terms of numbers, but also in terms of the level training and
experience they have dealing with Premier League football matches. "E20
confirmed today that immediate action is being taken on the issues raised.
The club will work tirelessly with them to ensure London Stadium continues
to be the inclusive and family-friendly environment that all parties have
worked so hard to achieve.
"This includes a more robust and secure line of segregation between the home
and visiting fans as specified by the club. We have been assured this will
be in place ahead of the next match. "The club has already taken action to
improve all match day elements within their control, including the
relocation of young children and families from areas where the fans are more
vociferous and the issuing of season long bans for supporters engaging in
anti-social behaviour. "The club is working hard to move like minded
supporters into areas to enhance their match day experience. This process
commenced ahead of the Watford game and has already proved successful in key
areas. The club will continue prioritising this approach around the
stadium."
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Adrián says West Ham did not disrespect Watford players on Saturday
By Allan Valente
Last Updated: 12/09/16 3:45pm
SSN
Adrián has dismissed Troy Deeney's claim that West Ham tried to "mug us off"
in Watford's 4-2 win on Saturday. Dimitri Payet set up Michail Antonio's
second goal with a 'rabona' cross, while Manuel Lanzini had also attempted a
shot using the same technique. While able to appreciate skill, Deeney seemed
to suggest that such moments only served to fire his side up to come back
from two goals down to win the game but the West Ham goalkeeper said there
was no intention of showing any disrespect to their opponents. "If you can
use skill on the pitch and it gives an advantage then it is great for us,"
he told Sky Sports News HQ. "I don't know if the Watford players were angry
but Lanzini tried his [rabona] because he has more confidence in his other
foot. Nobody can say this is disrespect."
The Spaniard also backed Claudio Bravo after his debut in the Manchester
derby over the weekend and said he believes goalkeepers play in the most
unforgiving position. "I think the goalkeeper position is the most difficult
on the pitch because you have the limits with the risk and mistakes," he
said. "You can make great saves but, if you make one mistake, everyone wants
to remember the mistake and you are alone just in front of the goal. "I
think Bravo's debut, probably he hoped to be much better but they won the
derby so he is probably happy with his debut and also for Joe Hart, it is a
new experience in the Italian league, a new moment for him in his career so
I wish him all the best."
Adrián also said the move to London Stadium is a step in the right direction
for West Ham and is keen to see the side settle there as quickly as
possible. "London Stadium is a massive stadium and if the club wants to grow
it's a great step for us," he said. "If we can settle there as soon as
possible, the players and the fans, we can be happy there." Watch Chelsea v
Liverpool on Friday Night Football, the Ryder Cup and the EFL Cup as part of
our three months' half-price offer.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham manager Slaven Bilic vows to 'turn situation around' after third
Premier League loss this season
Slaven Bilic insists West Ham have not become poor team over night
He said: We will get together, work hard and turn this situation around'
West Ham have lost to Chelsea, Manchester City and Watford
Bilic's team threw away two-goal lead at home to lose 4-2 against Hornets
By WILL GRIFFEE FOR MAILONLINE
PUBLISHED: 11:28, 12 September 2016 | UPDATED: 11:29, 12 September 2016
Slaven Bilic has called for calm after his side's underwhelming start to the
season and promised to change West Ham's fortunes. The manager watched on as
his side capitulated against Watford, throwing away a two-goal advantage to
lose 4-2. It proved to be the third loss of the season for Bilic's team in
the Premier League but he remains confident he can turn it around.
WEST HAM'S NEXT FIVE PREMIER LEAGUE GAMES
September 17 vs West Brom (A)
September 25 vs Southampton (H)
October 1 vs Middlesbrough (H)
October 15 vs Crystal Palace (A)
October 22 vs Sunderland (H)
Bilic told the West Ham website: 'We have a team that did so well last year
and had leaders and pace and tactical discipline and everything. 'Now, we
aren't going to say that the same team is missing leaders and all that. We
will get together, work hard and turn this situation around. 'There's no
point in talking about leadership on the pitch or moving grounds and all
that, because it didn't stop us beating Bournemouth.' After a positive start
against Watford, Bilic criticised the goals conceded by West Ham, feeling
they were soft and could have been defended better. 'We had the game under
complete control and they didn't hurt us. 'We were good and created even
more chances, but then from our point of view, we conceded two goals which
were far too easy for them to score.'I am concerned by the defending because
we couldn't cope. 'You can't win many games in the Premier League if you
defend like that.'
Bilic also noted the change in mentality of his players once they saw the
lead slip away from them. 'Sometimes I can understand that happening, but
not on Saturday. 'The level of some players' confidence depends on the
scoreline. 'On the one hand it's understandable, but on the other hand it
can't happen.'
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Monday, September 12
Daily WHUFC News - 12th September 2016
Antonio - I'd rather win and not score
WHUFC.com
Michail Antonio said any personal satisfaction from scoring his third and
fourth goals of the season was wiped out by Watford notching four in reply
on Saturday.
Antonio, whose outstanding from at the start of the 2016/17 season earned
him an England call-up two weeks ago, was the man on the spot again to nod
home twice inside the opening 33 minutes.
But Watford came roaring back to inflict a league defeat on the Hammers for
the first time at their new home – and that left the No30 frustrated.
He said: "I'd rather not score and win the game than score two goals and
lose it. We came out raring to go and started well, but after we got two-up
I think we took our foot off it, and now it's pure frustration.
"We had other opportunities to kill the game, but we didn't manage to do
that and defensively we made a couple of mistakes.
"All we can do is say sorry to the fans for that and move on to the next
game."
No player has scored more Premier League goals with his head over the last
two seasons than Antonio and he just wants the service to keep on coming.
He continued: "I'm hoping to score with my feet now! The service keeps
coming and if it goes there I'm going to score goals. It came today and
hopefully I can keep scoring, but it is more important for us to win games.
"In the first half an hour we showed the threat we have, but we've got to do
that for 90 minutes.
"We can't afford to make the mistakes we did, because in the Premier League
you will get punished.
"We've got to keep going and keep working hard in training."
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Ladies beaten despite impressive display
WHUFC.com
Coventry United 1-0 West Ham United
West Ham United Ladies were beaten 1-0 at Coventry on Saturday though they
were unfortunate to come away with nothing to show for their efforts after
an impressive display.
Manager James Marrs put out a defensive line-up as he looked to recover
quickly from last week's cup defeat to Tottenham Hotspur as Olivia Sammon,
Kat Clifton, Sasha Kelly and Steph Bent came into the starting XI.
And the Hammers frustrated the hosts throughout the first half with Clifton,
Kelly and captain Karen Ray pressing the ball in midfield and the defence
standing firm.
Coventry were restricted to long range efforts for the most part and
goalkeeper Deger Zekhi – in fine form – was equal to all the hosts'
attempts.
West Ham had their own chances throughout the first half with Molly Peters
playing the lone striker role and pestering the Coventry defence with her
pace.
The Hammers faithful, who had made the trip up north to support the girls,
met the half time whistle with cheers and applause with the scoreline
goalless.
The second period continued in the same vein with the Hammers sitting deep,
though the breakthrough came quarter of an hour into the 45.
The Sky Blues' right midfielder broke through the visitors' defence and,
finding the striker, Coventry made no mistake inside the six yard box and
made it 1-0.
The lead brought confidence and the hosts continued to press, but Hannah
Wheeler and Chantelle Mackie stood firm in the centre at the back and dealt
with everything thrown at them.
A rare second half break on 75 minutes gave the Hammers a chance, as Peters
skinned the back line to dance down the left only to be tripped. Chloe
Burr's resulting free-kick was agonisingly just inches away from Whitney
Locke's head.
With five minutes remaining, Marrs introduced Shellie Sumpter and, deployed
on the right wing, she made a difference. The alteration in formation led to
a chance for Burr to strike, and she was just millimeters from grabbing a
late equaliser.
The clash finished with Coventry taking the spoils but all of the West Ham
players could be proud of their performance ahead of their C&K Basildon
match on Wednesday night.
West Ham Ladies: Deger Zekhi, Steph Bent,Olivia Sammon, Karen
Ray, Chantelle Mackie, Hannah Wheeler, Whitney Locke, Kat Clifton, Molly
Peters, Sashe Kelly, Chloe Burr.
Substitutes: Imogen Bennett, Shellie Sumpter, Sarah Wilson.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers pledge £5k for sick supporter
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are donating £5,000 to help a young supporter get the
emergency treatment that could save his life.
Jack Howard, who is battling kidney cancer for the second time in four
years, has been given just weeks to live, but his family are hoping to raise
£250,000 in a bid to fly him to the United States for pioneering treatment.
Jack's father Nick said, "The NHS has done absolutely everything they can
for Jack but the cancer is not responding to conventional treatments. Now
they are out of options."
The Hammers' Board heard about Jack's plight and wanted to help raise
awareness and funds to help the young Hammer get the treatment that could
save his life.
The family have been advised it could be in the region of £250,000, subject
to an initial examination, and a £75,000 deposit is also required.
West Ham United's donation will take the current total above £35,000, and
Club officials are hoping the pledge may help encourage further donations to
Jack's fund.
Jack's aunt Keely Howard, who set up the crowdfunding page said, "We want to
be ready to go straight away, there is no time to lose, every day, every
week counts against us."
To donate to the fund to help Jack Howard receive the pioneering treatment
in the United States,click here. To help raise awareness of Jack's cause,
please use the hashtag #HelpJack on Twitter.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham: Crowd trouble at Watford match prompts FA investigation
BBC.co.uk
The Football Association will assess reports of crowd trouble at West Ham's
match with Watford on Saturday before deciding if further action is
required.
The FA is also expected to contact the Hammers about the events in the
stands at their new London Stadium home.
West Ham promised a "zero tolerance" approach to any fans found guilty and
said they would be banned for life.
"We will request courts serve banning orders to prevent these individuals
attending any football," the club said.
West Ham's first season at the London Stadium in Stratford, formerly the
Olympic Stadium, has been marred by unsavoury incidents involving their fans
at the last three matches, with criticisms being made over stewarding and
segregation arrangements.
At the first league match at the venue - against Bournemouth last month -
some fans arrived with tickets for seats that did not exist, while fighting
broke out between rival supporters outside the stadium.
Some of the disturbances are believed to be over persistent standing during
matches, with some fans ejected at the Watford match, which West Ham lost
4-2.
Before the game, West Ham co-chairman David Gold tweeted that the club was
"trying to achieve harmony" between fans who want to sit and those who
wanted "to stand and increase [the stadium's capacity] to 66,000".
On Sunday he wrote: "I want to assure everyone that the club is working flat
out to solve the sitting/standing issue."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
The Stadium of Fright
KUMb.com
Filed: Sunday, 11th September 2016
By: Terry Land
Last November, a couple of days before my appointment at Westfield to
arrange seats and purchase tickets for a group of six of to the "new"
stadium, I received a phone call from our advisor with the idea of prepping
us before our appointment.
I was informed if I wanted a seat similar to my Band D position on the back
row of the Bobby Moore Lower I would be forced to upgrade to Band C for the
Olympic Stadium. Although not disgruntled I was, as the saying goes,
somewhat less than gruntled and asked where we could sit "for atmosphere"
and was told the East Stand. "But", I replied, "They're the most expensive
seats, they won't be making any noise". First silence, then a raucous
clanging sound came down the line.
Fast forward 10 months and I'm in the London Stadium and watching to my left
as a man is ejected from the ground having refused to sit down. He had been
asked by spectators behind him, informed by club letter, asked by stewards,
then warned by the same that if he didn't remain seated he would be thrown
out. Yet he insisted on continuing his most fruitless and stupid of protests
as he was finally bundled out fists flying. Throughout this scene the entire
Bobby Moore Lower Stand were on their feet.
Numerous reports on social media spoke of similar events around the ground,
poor and inexperienced stewarding and a lack of segregation from away fans.
Many drew the conclusion the London Stadium is not a place they would care
to take their children again. If these are as the club insists, merely
"teething troubles" then they need to be sorted – and bloody quick.
High-handed letters to fans informing them they must sit for licensing
purposes in order for the club to squeeze in yet more stroppy customers are
some way short of what's required.
For their part the first thing the club need to do is listen to their paying
public. Many of these issues were highlighted following the Bournemouth game
yet the only visible response was, as mentioned, a letter to fans. Following
yesterday's game the club continued a confrontational approach by reminding
us, as if we didn't already know, we'll be banned for life for fighting.
More forward thinking might include groups set up with fans, within the club
and a more conciliatory tone applied. The owners may believe the new ground
is the best thing to happen to the club but the reality is many fans don't –
and an understanding of that feeling wouldn't appear to have permeated the
boardroom.
The club also need to get on to the stadium owners immediately and sort the
stewarding. Most of the stewards appear poorly trained, many incapable of
making basic decisions and some reportedly antagonistic to fans, furthering
an already poor situation. Lines of command need to be established and
practices reinforced. The decision not to have police present also looks to
be of dubious provenance; we've been very fortunate so far our visitors have
been Watford and Bournemouth not, say, Tottenham and Manchester United.
Most of all the club never seemed to appreciate the London Stadium being, as
its name implies, a stadium not a football ground. It contains football
supporters with all their differing realities and not a Taylor Swift
concert. The Boleyn Ground consisted of informal but nonetheless fairly
strict delineations that harked back to the days of mixed standing and
seating. For instance, those who sat in the old East Upper wouldn't want to
relocate to Chav Corner, likewise a representative Bobby Moore Lower
attendee would not enjoy life in the Family Enclosure. Regrettably, away
from the lower stands behind each goal these differentiations were not made
apparent by the club during the ticketing process, a lamentable failure that
has led to so much of the current bad feeling.
In a smart move the club recruited Directors from Arsenal who had already
experienced a move to oversee our migration under the aegis of Vice-Chairman
Karren Brady. Yet it appears her and her committee didn't understand, or
seemingly want to understand West Ham draw their fanbase from a different
demographic to the Gunners. Despite (or perhaps because of) being married to
a footballer and having spent her entire professional career in the sport
Brady envisaged only the new post-96 Sky fan filling the seats at the new
ground. Such was her confirmation bias she didn't for a second imagine
relatively lower ticket prices would herald a return from the more
traditional, shall we say, unreconstructed supporter. But there they all are
as the Sunday papers bear witness.
It is way too late now for many of the necessary changes to be implemented
to convert the stadium to a football ground. But as a minimum a Family
Enclosure must be reinstated and hang the disruption caused by those who
will need to move – their discomfort would be nothing to those currently
having to protect terrified kids from punch-ups. Further changes could be
made at the end of the season.
By the way, if I didn't explain the noise coming down my phone line at the
beginning of this piece I apologise. It wasn't external, it was in my own
head – and was the sound of alarm bells ringing.
* Read more from Terry at moxycoxy.wordpress.com or follow him on Twitter at
@AMoCS.
Please note that the opinions expressed in this article are those of the
author and do not necessarily represent the views of, nor should be
attributed to, KUMB.com.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham to seek talks over introducing safe standing areas following fan
trouble
18:49, 11 SEP 2016 UPDATED 18:50, 11 SEP 2016
BY NEIL MCLEMAN
Hammers fans fought among themselves during their 4-2 defeat to Watford,
with the all-seater stadium believed to have played a part in the trouble
TheMirror
West Ham will seek talks about introducing safe standing areas in the
Premier League after trouble among their own fans at the London Stadium.
The club promised a "full review" of security at the former Olympic Stadium
after the "segregation line" between Watford and West Ham fans was breached.
But there was also disturbances between home fans and stewards, employed by
the stadium owners, seeking to ensure supporters remain seated during
matches.
All Premier League and Championship stadiums are required to be all-seating
following the Taylor Report into the Hillsborough tragedy.
The new FA chairman Greg Clarke revealed yesterday he is planning to lobby
the Government to allow the return of new safe standing for top clubs.
Both West Ham co-chairmen David Sullivan and David Gold have previously
spoken in support of the change which is also backed by the Football
Supporter's Association.
And after the Watford game, Gold tweeted: "We are trying to achieve harmony
between fans who want to sit and those who want to stand and increase to
66k."
Safe standing – like in a new section at Celtic Park this season – could see
West Ham increase their capacity to the biggest for any London club and calm
tensions among their fans.
Most Premier League clubs turn a blind eye to standing in sections of their
stadiums. But the move to the London Stadium has seen Hammers fans dispersed
around the new arena – and a culture clash between traditional fans and a
new generation of Premier League supporters.
West Ham plan to relocate unhappy fans to different areas of the new stadium
and are looking at introducing "family areas".
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
Michail Antonio said any personal satisfaction from scoring his third and
fourth goals of the season was wiped out by Watford notching four in reply
on Saturday.
Antonio, whose outstanding from at the start of the 2016/17 season earned
him an England call-up two weeks ago, was the man on the spot again to nod
home twice inside the opening 33 minutes.
But Watford came roaring back to inflict a league defeat on the Hammers for
the first time at their new home – and that left the No30 frustrated.
He said: "I'd rather not score and win the game than score two goals and
lose it. We came out raring to go and started well, but after we got two-up
I think we took our foot off it, and now it's pure frustration.
"We had other opportunities to kill the game, but we didn't manage to do
that and defensively we made a couple of mistakes.
"All we can do is say sorry to the fans for that and move on to the next
game."
No player has scored more Premier League goals with his head over the last
two seasons than Antonio and he just wants the service to keep on coming.
He continued: "I'm hoping to score with my feet now! The service keeps
coming and if it goes there I'm going to score goals. It came today and
hopefully I can keep scoring, but it is more important for us to win games.
"In the first half an hour we showed the threat we have, but we've got to do
that for 90 minutes.
"We can't afford to make the mistakes we did, because in the Premier League
you will get punished.
"We've got to keep going and keep working hard in training."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ladies beaten despite impressive display
WHUFC.com
Coventry United 1-0 West Ham United
West Ham United Ladies were beaten 1-0 at Coventry on Saturday though they
were unfortunate to come away with nothing to show for their efforts after
an impressive display.
Manager James Marrs put out a defensive line-up as he looked to recover
quickly from last week's cup defeat to Tottenham Hotspur as Olivia Sammon,
Kat Clifton, Sasha Kelly and Steph Bent came into the starting XI.
And the Hammers frustrated the hosts throughout the first half with Clifton,
Kelly and captain Karen Ray pressing the ball in midfield and the defence
standing firm.
Coventry were restricted to long range efforts for the most part and
goalkeeper Deger Zekhi – in fine form – was equal to all the hosts'
attempts.
West Ham had their own chances throughout the first half with Molly Peters
playing the lone striker role and pestering the Coventry defence with her
pace.
The Hammers faithful, who had made the trip up north to support the girls,
met the half time whistle with cheers and applause with the scoreline
goalless.
The second period continued in the same vein with the Hammers sitting deep,
though the breakthrough came quarter of an hour into the 45.
The Sky Blues' right midfielder broke through the visitors' defence and,
finding the striker, Coventry made no mistake inside the six yard box and
made it 1-0.
The lead brought confidence and the hosts continued to press, but Hannah
Wheeler and Chantelle Mackie stood firm in the centre at the back and dealt
with everything thrown at them.
A rare second half break on 75 minutes gave the Hammers a chance, as Peters
skinned the back line to dance down the left only to be tripped. Chloe
Burr's resulting free-kick was agonisingly just inches away from Whitney
Locke's head.
With five minutes remaining, Marrs introduced Shellie Sumpter and, deployed
on the right wing, she made a difference. The alteration in formation led to
a chance for Burr to strike, and she was just millimeters from grabbing a
late equaliser.
The clash finished with Coventry taking the spoils but all of the West Ham
players could be proud of their performance ahead of their C&K Basildon
match on Wednesday night.
West Ham Ladies: Deger Zekhi, Steph Bent,Olivia Sammon, Karen
Ray, Chantelle Mackie, Hannah Wheeler, Whitney Locke, Kat Clifton, Molly
Peters, Sashe Kelly, Chloe Burr.
Substitutes: Imogen Bennett, Shellie Sumpter, Sarah Wilson.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers pledge £5k for sick supporter
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are donating £5,000 to help a young supporter get the
emergency treatment that could save his life.
Jack Howard, who is battling kidney cancer for the second time in four
years, has been given just weeks to live, but his family are hoping to raise
£250,000 in a bid to fly him to the United States for pioneering treatment.
Jack's father Nick said, "The NHS has done absolutely everything they can
for Jack but the cancer is not responding to conventional treatments. Now
they are out of options."
The Hammers' Board heard about Jack's plight and wanted to help raise
awareness and funds to help the young Hammer get the treatment that could
save his life.
The family have been advised it could be in the region of £250,000, subject
to an initial examination, and a £75,000 deposit is also required.
West Ham United's donation will take the current total above £35,000, and
Club officials are hoping the pledge may help encourage further donations to
Jack's fund.
Jack's aunt Keely Howard, who set up the crowdfunding page said, "We want to
be ready to go straight away, there is no time to lose, every day, every
week counts against us."
To donate to the fund to help Jack Howard receive the pioneering treatment
in the United States,click here. To help raise awareness of Jack's cause,
please use the hashtag #HelpJack on Twitter.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham: Crowd trouble at Watford match prompts FA investigation
BBC.co.uk
The Football Association will assess reports of crowd trouble at West Ham's
match with Watford on Saturday before deciding if further action is
required.
The FA is also expected to contact the Hammers about the events in the
stands at their new London Stadium home.
West Ham promised a "zero tolerance" approach to any fans found guilty and
said they would be banned for life.
"We will request courts serve banning orders to prevent these individuals
attending any football," the club said.
West Ham's first season at the London Stadium in Stratford, formerly the
Olympic Stadium, has been marred by unsavoury incidents involving their fans
at the last three matches, with criticisms being made over stewarding and
segregation arrangements.
At the first league match at the venue - against Bournemouth last month -
some fans arrived with tickets for seats that did not exist, while fighting
broke out between rival supporters outside the stadium.
Some of the disturbances are believed to be over persistent standing during
matches, with some fans ejected at the Watford match, which West Ham lost
4-2.
Before the game, West Ham co-chairman David Gold tweeted that the club was
"trying to achieve harmony" between fans who want to sit and those who
wanted "to stand and increase [the stadium's capacity] to 66,000".
On Sunday he wrote: "I want to assure everyone that the club is working flat
out to solve the sitting/standing issue."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
The Stadium of Fright
KUMb.com
Filed: Sunday, 11th September 2016
By: Terry Land
Last November, a couple of days before my appointment at Westfield to
arrange seats and purchase tickets for a group of six of to the "new"
stadium, I received a phone call from our advisor with the idea of prepping
us before our appointment.
I was informed if I wanted a seat similar to my Band D position on the back
row of the Bobby Moore Lower I would be forced to upgrade to Band C for the
Olympic Stadium. Although not disgruntled I was, as the saying goes,
somewhat less than gruntled and asked where we could sit "for atmosphere"
and was told the East Stand. "But", I replied, "They're the most expensive
seats, they won't be making any noise". First silence, then a raucous
clanging sound came down the line.
Fast forward 10 months and I'm in the London Stadium and watching to my left
as a man is ejected from the ground having refused to sit down. He had been
asked by spectators behind him, informed by club letter, asked by stewards,
then warned by the same that if he didn't remain seated he would be thrown
out. Yet he insisted on continuing his most fruitless and stupid of protests
as he was finally bundled out fists flying. Throughout this scene the entire
Bobby Moore Lower Stand were on their feet.
Numerous reports on social media spoke of similar events around the ground,
poor and inexperienced stewarding and a lack of segregation from away fans.
Many drew the conclusion the London Stadium is not a place they would care
to take their children again. If these are as the club insists, merely
"teething troubles" then they need to be sorted – and bloody quick.
High-handed letters to fans informing them they must sit for licensing
purposes in order for the club to squeeze in yet more stroppy customers are
some way short of what's required.
For their part the first thing the club need to do is listen to their paying
public. Many of these issues were highlighted following the Bournemouth game
yet the only visible response was, as mentioned, a letter to fans. Following
yesterday's game the club continued a confrontational approach by reminding
us, as if we didn't already know, we'll be banned for life for fighting.
More forward thinking might include groups set up with fans, within the club
and a more conciliatory tone applied. The owners may believe the new ground
is the best thing to happen to the club but the reality is many fans don't –
and an understanding of that feeling wouldn't appear to have permeated the
boardroom.
The club also need to get on to the stadium owners immediately and sort the
stewarding. Most of the stewards appear poorly trained, many incapable of
making basic decisions and some reportedly antagonistic to fans, furthering
an already poor situation. Lines of command need to be established and
practices reinforced. The decision not to have police present also looks to
be of dubious provenance; we've been very fortunate so far our visitors have
been Watford and Bournemouth not, say, Tottenham and Manchester United.
Most of all the club never seemed to appreciate the London Stadium being, as
its name implies, a stadium not a football ground. It contains football
supporters with all their differing realities and not a Taylor Swift
concert. The Boleyn Ground consisted of informal but nonetheless fairly
strict delineations that harked back to the days of mixed standing and
seating. For instance, those who sat in the old East Upper wouldn't want to
relocate to Chav Corner, likewise a representative Bobby Moore Lower
attendee would not enjoy life in the Family Enclosure. Regrettably, away
from the lower stands behind each goal these differentiations were not made
apparent by the club during the ticketing process, a lamentable failure that
has led to so much of the current bad feeling.
In a smart move the club recruited Directors from Arsenal who had already
experienced a move to oversee our migration under the aegis of Vice-Chairman
Karren Brady. Yet it appears her and her committee didn't understand, or
seemingly want to understand West Ham draw their fanbase from a different
demographic to the Gunners. Despite (or perhaps because of) being married to
a footballer and having spent her entire professional career in the sport
Brady envisaged only the new post-96 Sky fan filling the seats at the new
ground. Such was her confirmation bias she didn't for a second imagine
relatively lower ticket prices would herald a return from the more
traditional, shall we say, unreconstructed supporter. But there they all are
as the Sunday papers bear witness.
It is way too late now for many of the necessary changes to be implemented
to convert the stadium to a football ground. But as a minimum a Family
Enclosure must be reinstated and hang the disruption caused by those who
will need to move – their discomfort would be nothing to those currently
having to protect terrified kids from punch-ups. Further changes could be
made at the end of the season.
By the way, if I didn't explain the noise coming down my phone line at the
beginning of this piece I apologise. It wasn't external, it was in my own
head – and was the sound of alarm bells ringing.
* Read more from Terry at moxycoxy.wordpress.com or follow him on Twitter at
@AMoCS.
Please note that the opinions expressed in this article are those of the
author and do not necessarily represent the views of, nor should be
attributed to, KUMB.com.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham to seek talks over introducing safe standing areas following fan
trouble
18:49, 11 SEP 2016 UPDATED 18:50, 11 SEP 2016
BY NEIL MCLEMAN
Hammers fans fought among themselves during their 4-2 defeat to Watford,
with the all-seater stadium believed to have played a part in the trouble
TheMirror
West Ham will seek talks about introducing safe standing areas in the
Premier League after trouble among their own fans at the London Stadium.
The club promised a "full review" of security at the former Olympic Stadium
after the "segregation line" between Watford and West Ham fans was breached.
But there was also disturbances between home fans and stewards, employed by
the stadium owners, seeking to ensure supporters remain seated during
matches.
All Premier League and Championship stadiums are required to be all-seating
following the Taylor Report into the Hillsborough tragedy.
The new FA chairman Greg Clarke revealed yesterday he is planning to lobby
the Government to allow the return of new safe standing for top clubs.
Both West Ham co-chairmen David Sullivan and David Gold have previously
spoken in support of the change which is also backed by the Football
Supporter's Association.
And after the Watford game, Gold tweeted: "We are trying to achieve harmony
between fans who want to sit and those who want to stand and increase to
66k."
Safe standing – like in a new section at Celtic Park this season – could see
West Ham increase their capacity to the biggest for any London club and calm
tensions among their fans.
Most Premier League clubs turn a blind eye to standing in sections of their
stadiums. But the move to the London Stadium has seen Hammers fans dispersed
around the new arena – and a culture clash between traditional fans and a
new generation of Premier League supporters.
West Ham plan to relocate unhappy fans to different areas of the new stadium
and are looking at introducing "family areas".
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
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