In their first game of 2025 following the winter break, West Ham’s U21 side picked up a 2-1 win away against Ebbsfleet United in the National League Cup. This was the Hammers second win on the bounce against senior opposition in the competition.

After a three week break, the U21s started 2025 as they mean to go on. The Hammers were arguably on top for lengthy periods of the match against National League side Ebbsfleet. Mark Robson’s side created a host of chances for themselves and were able to remain well organised  and defensively resolute.

Both of the Hammers goals, the first from Josh Ajala in the 9th minute and the second from Kamarai Swyer in the 55th minute, showcased their build up play and were excellently crafted team goals. Ebbsfleet put the young Hammers under some late pressure but Mark Robson’s side held on to claim all three points.

The win against Ebbsfleet takes the Hammers to second in their group with their final group game to be played at the end of January. Speaking to the Club’s official website after the game and reflecting on his side’s performance, U21s lead coach Mark Robson said: “I was really pleased tonight. I thought we controlled the game for large parts of it, and some of our play was outstanding.”

Robson went on to add: “There were some excellent individual performances, and as a team, I was really happy with how we played.”

To come back from their winter break and begin 2025 with a win is an excellent way to start the new year for West Ham’s U21 side. Back to back wins against senior opposition will give the Hammers great confidence that they will be able to qualify for the knockout stage of the competition, it is also an excellent achievement in a season that has had it’s ups and downs for the young Hammers.