West Ham’s U21’s Bristol Street Motors tournament came to a disappointing end after they were beaten 3-1 by Cheltenham Town at Whaddon Road.

The Hammers began the match by trying to build patiently out from the back, however they were under an immense amount of pressure from Cheltenham early on. The physicality and direct style of play from the Cheltenham side caused the young Hammers concern, however Mark Robson’s side were able to absorb the early pressure.

Shortly after Cheltenham skipper Taylor went close to opening the scoring, Ollie Scarles would find himself in a one versus one situation but was brought down on the edge of the box by Harrison Sohna. Scarles was soon at the centre of another West Ham attack where he delivered a dangerous cross into the box but the chance went begging.

Despite the Hammers having a number of positive moments and creating some opportunities, it was Cheltenham who took the lead in the 28th minute. Taylor took advantage of an overload and found Dulson on the left hand side. The winger went one against one with the goalkeeper, fired a shot towards goal which deflected off Hammers keeper Fin Herrick into the roof of the net. The Robins went into half time 1-0nup leaving West Ham with work to do in the second half.

In the second half, after a sustained spell of pressure Cheltenham won themselves a penalty. Taylor who was at the forefront of most of Cheltenham’s attacks took the spot kick and sent Herrick the wrong way doubling the hosts advantage.

West Ham responded quickly with a goal of their own just three minutes later. Ollie Scarles’ cross low into the box was met by Kamarai Swyer at the far post who fired home from close range to make it 2-1 giving the Hammers a lifeline.

Despite West Ham’s best efforts going forward, they were stretched at the back by Cheltenham’s quick transitions. In the 70th minute Dulson found King at the far post who scored his first senior goal putting Cheltenham back in front and giving them a 3-1 lead.

The Hammers were unable to find a way back into the game. The full time whistle saw Cheltenham seal their 3-1 win and the young Hammers EFL Trophy campaign come to an end.

Reflecting on the game speaking to the club’s Official Website, U21’s lead coach Mark Robson said: “We learned loads from today’s game, it was a great experience for the boys, completely different from what they’re used to, especially from a physical and direct point of view. For long periods we were really good and played out from the back effectively. I thought we created enough today, and the goal was excellent.”