West Ham produced an overall positive performance and cam close to a win at Bournemouth last night.
Despite the lack of optimism from many going into this tough Premier League fixture, the Hammers sprung a surprise by producing a much improved and well drilled display in the 1st half, which arguably warranted more than a 0-0 scoreline at the break.
Bournemouth to their credit improved greatly in the 2nd half as West Ham had to work hard and lean on the excellent performance of Lucasz Fabianski, who had to pull off some excellent stops to keep Lopetegui’s side in the game.
West Ham worked very hard though and thought we had won it through a 87th minute penalty from Lucas Paqueta – however just 3 minutes later Unal scored a stunning free-kick to earn the Cherries a last gasp point, however in fairness that was probably a fair result.
Julen Lopetegui has been under immense pressure of late, so it was understandable that he looked a relieved and very pleased man following a performance than many will hope can be built upon.
“We were very close to winning on a very difficult pitch against a very good team who have been very strong at home,” the Head Coach told the clubs Official Website.
“We were very close and we did a lot of good things. We had more expected goals than them and in the first half we had a lot of clear chances.
“It is true that they were strong in the second half, but we came through our bad moment and were able to score.”
Lucas Paqueta was the man of the moment when he stepped up and took the penalty in typical brash style, as Lopetegui gave the Brazil star credit for the work rate he put in.
“Lucas has worked very well, he scored a penalty which is never easy and above all he worked very hard in the match,” added Lopetegui.
“It was not easy for him because he didn’t start the last two matches in the lineup, but tonight he showed that he is always ready to help the team.
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