We certainly deserved to score one or two goals in the second half. West Ham barely had a shot other than the goals and it really our poor defending today that costed us points in this match.
I thought you had given up with this season, and couldn't care less. Although, I do agree. Defending amateurish today.
I don't really know how to feel about that, we seemed to be in control for around 70% of the match - for almost all of the second half we were just camped outside their penalty box, and had a few meaningful chances - but our defence has just crumbled at vital moments. I thought we played very well in the second half, and put good pressure on West Ham. Ramirez looked very very good, although I wish he'd left that late free kick to Ward-Prowse. One positive note though - seeing 5 academy products playing together at the end is an amazing thing.
How many times have we said 'We should have won by a mile but the other team only had 2 or 3 shots and scored.Its football, even Man City lose matches. If you want 100% success don't be a football fan.
Lallana was bright, but made some errors (and unfortunately couldn't get his foot to a tap-in). Shaw with some great runs but not always the best final ball, and Ramirez was excellent. Beyond them, not the greatest of games...Rickie was dire, defending was poor, passing in midfield varied considerably in quality. Oh well; as long as they don't deduct 10 points for two-goal away losses we're still right where we were. I'd definitely start Gallagher against Liverpool...much though Rickie would hate to start that one on the bench, we'll need mobility up top.
I didn't see any of the game today; it sounds very disappointing, but I am pleased to hear Ramirez did well.
Well whilst everyone here forensically dissects, worries, argues and can't work out the fact that we just didn't really get the rub of the green today, I'm off to do something worthwhile with my Saturday for once!
Frustrating. What can I say? I love my team and the way we play, but damn do we need a fine finisher to sniff out those chances. Spam basically won without the ball, bizarre really, we've done it on the odd occasion, but I wouldn't swap Poch for old Hippo head. Positives. Ramirez looked good, Lovren will be back soon, and I'm going for a beer.
We were completely dominant, lacked a bit of creativity and presence up top, but really it was one of those games that we could have absolutely battered them in. That we didn't shouldn't really be a concern on this occasion - play like that and buy a lively striker/finisher, we'll win the majority of games we play. West Ham defended very well. The end.
It is clear now that the reason we are disagreeing is down to the fact you don't think Lovren could return from injury and play a full game without running out of steam. I presume any player at this level will be able to. They don't just sit around when they are recovering from an injury.
Team looked hungry, but bad luck and a few bad decisions (by players and officials) cost us. West Ham are a tough defensive unit, and we just aren't.
I keep going on about this, but it's because an awful lot of people don't seem to see it right now. We may as well bring Le Tiss out of retirement for all the use Rickie has been for much of this season. We seem to be relying on him for set piece shots and the odd long pass. His mobility, leap, speed are all completely shot I'm afraid. Let's not cloud ourselves with nostalgia. He has a use from now as a bit-part sub but a main striker is so, so, so needed.
It is not. Anyone who has played any sport at a half decent level will tell you that you can be free from injury (completely), but not match fit. I don't see why you can't understand it. In fact, it is common sense. Go for a run everyday for a month, timing each run. After about 3 weeks, you'll find your 'normal' time. Then do nothing for 6 weeks. Go for a run at the end of the six weeks, tell me how you feel and what time you do?
