It was never going to be an easy game, but as usual under Zola and Clarke, the Hammers did us proud yesterday. There were various individual errors, but this was true of both sides as the pace of the game made for some frantic decisions. But the revelation of the day was the player who I consider our man of the match.
I will not shy away from the fact that I had previously said I didn't want to see him play for us again. His cameo performances showed someone with an ill temprament and a distinct lack of composure. He seemed more likely to get sent off than score. However, since he has been recalled to the team of late, he was quietly putting in some decent performances. Yesterday, he was excellent, tracking back defensively and creating offensively. It's great credit to him but also to Zola and Clarke who seem to have the ability to transform players, witness the re-birth of Cole earlier in the season.
It wasn't just LBM putting in some good stuff, Tomkins continues to grow in stature, Stanislas looks like a real prospect and even Savio and Sears were lively when they came on. Things are looking bright for our future.
As for the result, I said I'd settle for a draw and it was a good point though we could have nicked it. Villa were there for the taking but they play some good football and I thought James Milner was excellent for them. it was a good game and I think a point each is fair for two sides who were going out for the win. Right, player ratings....
Green - 7 - some good saves yesterday from the green un
Illunga - 5 - a poor game from Herita, some poor distribution and at fault for their goal
Collins - 6 - didn't do too much before going off
Upson - 6 - pretty solid
Tomkins - 6.5 - was up against a tough opponent in Carew and though occasionally came off worse, did very well
LBM - 8 - possibly his best performance in a Hammers shirt, great stuff
Neill - 7 - was very busy yesterday, is it just me thinking Hammer of the Year contender?
Noble - 6 - which way is this boy going to go? Sometimes he has the touch of Brooking, sometimes the touch of Boogers, could maybe do with a dose of Zola/Clarke magic
Di Michele - 6 - as frustrating as ever, some great build up play coupled with poor finishing
Tristan - ?????? - what do you give the guy? He was poor throughout and then goes and gets the equaliser! Would have got 5 without the goal but guess I have to give him a 6 for doing what he is paid to do, pretty good finish too....
Subs: Dyer - 6.5 - was playing a bit of a holidng role so had to be cautious but when he went forward he looked dangerous. If he stays fit, could be a real bonus for us.
Savio/Sears - 6
Zola/Clarke - 8 - the magical duo done well
Proud to be a Hammer again on a Sunday which is always a good sighn, now bring on the next match, who we got? Oh........Chelsea don't look too impressive do they?
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