James Ward-Prowse has admitted that our Hammers did not perform at the level required at Sheffield United, but expects a response.

West Ham’s 2-2 draw at Bramall Lane was far from an entertaining game for the neutral. The last 15 minutes, however, were dominated by VAR decisions and late drama. This saw both sides reduced to ten men and a penalty awarded to Sheffield United, scored by Oli McBurnie in the 103rd minute.

The replays, however, highlighted Areola had in fact been fouled by McBurnie. In the dying seconds of the game, West Ham were denied a second spot kick of their own, following a clear foul on Bowen by Sheffield United’s Anel Ahmedhodzic, with VAR failing to intervene.

Midfielder Ward-Prowse, who has contributed a remarkable 10 assists in all competitions, scored his 4th goal of the season, coolly dispatching from the penalty spot in the 79th minute. The England international’s penalty appeared to snatch the three points for David Moyes’ side with 11 minutes of the 90 remaining.

Speaking to the clubs Official Website after the match, Ward-Prowse said: “If we’re honest, we didn’t play at the levels we know we can, and we didn’t do enough to win the game. We’re in the top six and trying to push towards the top of the table, so we’re disappointed with our overall performance.”

The 29 year old went on to say: “At times we kept possession well and we created chances, but we lacked a bit of control and at times it turned into a bit of a basketball match. It was a bit end to end, and we didn’t stamp our authority or show enough swagger with the ball.”

Ward-Prowse gave his thoughts on the dramatic ending to the game: “It was a crazy few minutes, but we know that’s the sort of thing that can happen in the Premier League. We all know we can do better, and now it’s up to us to respond in the right way on the training pitch, and then ultimately back at home against Bournemouth.”

Written by Finlay Jackson