It certainly wasn’t the comfortable victory that on paper this tie would have suggested, but West Ham did somehow overcome a spirited display from Kidderminster Harriers to reach the 5th round of the FA Cup.

Our Irons started the game well and looked in the opening exchanges a Premier League outfit visiting the National League hosts, however the wilted away fast as Kidderminster really showed far more of a want to win this game.

As the game went on not only did the home side improve, but West Ham simply couldn’t match their determination and drive to get into the next round.

Then just before the 20 minute mark, Kidderminster took a deserved lead when Penny smashed in a rebound from a corner following some shambolic goalkeeping from Areola.

David Moyes rung in the changes at half time which saw Declan Rice replace the disappointing Alex Krak and it definitely made an impact, although it didn’t feel as though a goal would come.

The home side were resolute as they could see our Hammers running out of ideas whilst struggling to cope with the pitch conditions, yet a goal finally did arrive in injury time.

The once again outstanding Declan Rice weaved into the box to smash home an equaliser seconds from the end to break Kidderminster hearts, which ultimately was unjust given the level of performance provided by the Harriers.

Extra time was required and it seemed a certainty that a penalty shootout would be required, but Jarrod Bowen poked home with the final kick to send West Ham into the 5th round.

Not one to brag about certainly but it’s a victory none the less, with West Ham now a step closer to a possible trophy.