West Ham confirmed a top spot finish of Group B in the Europa Conference League, although there was some concern surrounding the fitness of Jarrod Bowen.

David Moyes’ Hammers made it 5 wins from 5 in the group whilst extending an impressive run of 6 consecutive victories on home turf in all competitions, in a match that West Ham ultimately controlled throughout.

The game started with Moyes’ side looking commanding in possession, with Nayef Aguerd in particular demonstrating his impressive ability with his distribution in what was his long awaiting debut following ankle surgery.

The much-changed line-up that beat Bournemouth on Monday night looked a side more than capable of getting the job done, with some slick and convincing passing that really should have created more.

On 25 minutes the deadlock was broken, when Michail Antonio was brought down in the box by the Silkeborg keeper Larsen, although it must be said it was a rather soft challenge.

Manuel Lanzini stepped up and converted the spot kick in swift fashion as he slotted on the bottom corner to give our Irons a deserved lead, which West Ham looked then to build on.

Despite the continuation of our Hammers’ possession, clear cut chances weren’t aplenty with West Ham lacking a cutting edge to put the game to bed, although the loss never really looked in any particular danger.

David Moyes was understandably delighted to have topped Group B with a match to spare, although his frustration in our once-again lack of conviction in front of goal was evident.

“The biggest thing tonight was we didn’t get the goals at the end of it,” Moyes told the press as reported by Football London. “I’ve sort of been moaning about that, we’ve not been clinical, not getting the finish that would’ve made things a lot easier. But, look, we had good control of the game and in the main deserved the victory.”

Moyes however did share some worrying news, that our in-form winger and England international Jarrod Bowen has picked up an injury which ruled him out of the squad last night.

“Jarrod Bowen had a bit of an ankle injury,” confirmed Moyes. “I will asses it tomorrow, see how he is. I don’t know yet, I don’t think it’s too bad but we will see tomorrow.”

The West Ham Way will report on the Bowen injury once more details are established, with our man-in-the-know ExWHUEmployee to report on Patreon.