West Ham produced a memorable performance at the London Stadium to knock out rivals Arsenal to book a place in the Carabao Cup quarter-finals.
David Moyes side reacted very well following a bad week which saw consecutive defeats in all competitions, but there was certainly no feeling that this was a side lacking in confidence, with our Hammers thoroughly deserving of the big win over Mikel Arteta’s side.
It was a far more energised display, with West Ham putting the visitors under pressure from the off, which didn’t enable them to make any dents in the game despite having the majarity of the possession. Then on the quarter of an hour mark Moyes’ side were ahead, thanks to an own goal from Ben White following a Jarrod Bowen corner.
West Ham saw out the first half well but following recent experiences, there was a nervouis feeling that the 2nd half might see a lack of tempo which Arsenal would take advantage of – but it was far from what occured.
Our Irons came our flying and looked more menacing that the first half – looking a side eager to get this game out of sight, then just 5 minutes in, that is what happened thanks to a stunning goal.
Nayef Aguerd floated a beautiful cross-ball over to Mohammed Kudus, who produced wonderful control and then fired beyond Ramsdale to send the London Stadium wild.
Then just 10 minutes later it was game over, when Jarrod Bowen fired a fierce shot at the Arsenal goalkeeper, who could only parry into his net – just seconds after Declan Rice took to the field on his return to east London following his transfer in the summer.
Arsenal grabbed a 96th minute consolation, but thats is all it was – as West Ham advanced after a thoroughly deserved 3-1 win – one which both our Podcast hosts Dave Walker and ExWHUEmployee enjoyed very much.
“That was a big result for so many reasons,” exclaimed Walker after the game “The main one being that this club needed a lift after a tough time recently.
“We’re into the quarters now and we did it by beating Arsenal, that was sweet that was. Very sweet!”
Ex also shared Walkers joy and hopes that the win will get our season back on track ahead of Brentford on Saturday.
“A really good performance from the team today in all areas especially the second half,” said our club insider.
“The stand out man for me was Kudus however, who really looks like a great player for us. What a nice feeling this is and let’s hope we can build from this point again!”