West Ham take a goal advantage to the 2nd leg of the Europa Conference League Semi-Final after coming from behind in a gritty encounter at the London Stadium.

It was an electric atmosphere in East London as fully expected, with West Ham looking to take a big step towards lifting our first major trophy in 43 years, although memories of our Europa League exit at the same stage last season at the hands of Frankfurt created a nervous edge.

West Ham though started well this time around, looking to impose ourselves on the game however the visitors were showing they were happy to go toe-to-toe. It was our Hammers though that had the first big chance.

Benrahma battled well to gain possession and fired an excellent shot towards the bottom corner which the AZ goalkeeper did well to save for a corner.

Then controversy struck just 5 minutes before the break when Paqueta was pushed and the referee looked to blow for a foul, but then suddenly waived play-on. This caused much confusion amongst players and fans, which AZ took full advantage of.

Reijnders fired a fierce shot towards the bottom corner which somehow went in, despite Areola being in a good position to save – giving AZ the lead and shocking the London Stadium.

The second half saw West Ham initially struggle to get to grips with proceedings, but on the hour mark we came to life. Bowen fired a shot on the turn at goal which was just narrowly wide which lifted the atmosphere as our Hammers started to up the tempo.

Then just 7 minutes later a penalty was rewarded after Bowen was clattered by the goalkeeper, and the outstanding Benrahma slotted home in sublime fashion to send the London Stadium wild.

It was then all West Ham, and just under 10 minutes later we were ahead, with Antonio poking home after a scrap in the 6-yard box. It was deserved and there was a feeling the game could be put out of sight.

Just 8 minutes from time West Ham should have had a 3rd, with Ings laying off a beautiful back-heel for Benrahma, but the Algerian internatinal couldn’t get over the ball and fired over the bar.

It meant our Hammers take a 1-goal lead into the 2nd leg next week, although there is certainly encouragement that if we up our game to levels we know we can play at, a place in the final can be realised.

ExWHUEmployee was understandably pleased with the comeback win, but felt the referees performance hindered on what could have been a much bigger goal margin.

“I felt the referee really affected our momentum in the first half,” said Ex after the game. “It felt like we were playing against 12 men. Their time wasting also frustrated us, but we did well to come away with the win.

“We should rest players this weekend and go into next Thursday full of confidence about getting to the final! What an atmosphere too and well done to the club and fans for creating a special night.”