West Ham’s U21 side fell to a 4-2 defeat against PSG Espoirs on Wednesday in what proved to be a lively friendly at the French side’s training facilities. The match served as preparation for the PL2 play off’s, with the Hammers having secured fourth place in the regular season.

The young Hammers fell behind early after a goal from Mahamadou Sanagre, Mark Robson’s side responded well and turned the game around before half time. Lewis Orford finished off a slick passage of play to level things up, before setting up a counter attack that led to a goal from Josh Ajala making it 2-1 and putting the Hammers in front. The Hammers were sharp and in control for large spells of the first half.

PSG found their feet after the break, growing into the game and gradually gaining the upper hand. Quentin Ndjantou equalised just after the hour mark, and Sangare scored again late on to put the French side back in front. Sean Moore went close to levelling for the Hammers in added time, but a deflected goal from Ibrahima Diaby saw PSG add a forth and seal the win.

Despite his side’s defeat, U21’s lead coach Mark Robson felt there were positives to take from his side’s trip to France and his players having tested themselves against good quality opposition.

“It was a really good experience for players and staff alike, playing at such a fantastic facility. It was top, top drawer, a great environment for the players to be around.” said Robson, as reported by the clubs Official Website.

The U21’s lead coach went on to add: “Overall, it was a really good trip, lots of positives to take from it, and we even had two 16 year old’s out there on the pitch. A brilliant experience in terms of learning.”