West Ham United lost 2-1 today to Manchester City today. John Stones’ 68th-minute winner was enough for the Citizens to grab all three points after Michail Antonio equalised for the Hammers in the 43rd minute.
This could be a result that leaves them out of the top four this weekend if Chelsea beat Manchester United tomorrow. However, despite the defeat, this is a good result for West Ham through their encouraging performance in the early kick-off.
Here is why West Ham showed plenty of encouragement in their loss to Man City.
LEARNING FROM THE LIVERPOOL DEFEAT AND BEING COMPETITIVE
West Ham lost 3-1 at home to Liverpool on January 31st and whilst the first half ended 0-0, West Ham were by far second best, with Liverpool allowed to take over in the second half.
This set back top-four hopes but West Ham have been on a good run since, winning three and drawing one in their next four games before today’s defeat.
Against Man City and Tottenham Hotspur, West Ham had a real go at their opponents whilst also being compact as a unit. They were competitive.
In the 2-1 win at home to Spurs, both teams shared the same amount of shots on target despite Tottenham having 70% possession and over 300 more passes. West Ham showed a level of efficiency, with loan signing Jesse Lingard proving an inspired signing so far with his goal which doubled West Ham’s lead.
Whilst Man City dominated possession, they had the same amount of shots on target as Pep Guardiola’s side. West Ham managed to find that aforementioned Antonio equaliser.
LIMITING CITY’S ATTACK
Man City had just three shots on targets as West Ham frustrated the Citizens for the first half an hour of the game. Rúben Dias scored his first City goal after a world-class cross from Belgian midfielder Kevin De Bruyne. This was their first shot on target all game.
David Moyes’ side had managed to contain Man City and limit their attack. This will stand them in good stead for their next five Premier League games.
The Hammers play Leeds United next, followed by Manchester United, Arsenal, Wolverhampton Wanderers and Leicester City. Leeds and Wolves are hard to predict and will provide West Ham with a tough challenge.
Manchester United and Leicester both currently occupy the second and third respectively and will be a big test for their West Ham and their Champions League credentials. If West Ham can get some results out of these games, they will go into their game against Chelsea towards the end of April with full confidence.
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