Sunday, May 10

Another away defeat at Aston Villa

Aston Villa 1 West Ham 0

So it's a predictable defeat in the David Cameron derby. Sounds like West Ham were on the back foot for the first half. Adrian produces a good save from Cleverley's fierce volley, but is beaten after half an hour following Grealish's good break down the left and Cleverley's tap in. Poor marking in the box, though a generally solid performance from Collins and Burke in keeping Benteke quiet. Valencia should be awarded a penalty, but for Nolan standing all over the keeper, which the referee spots first.

West Ham look better in the second half with Nene and Song on for the ponderous Nolan and Morgan Amalfitano. Nene fires just over and should surely be given a starting slot as at least he looks like he knows where the goal is. Song has had a back problem for weeks, but if fit he should start against Everton too.

From a West Ham corner Collins has a header tipped over the bar by Given. While Valencia has a headed goal disallowed for offside, which is probably just about correct, though the left back almost plays him onside. Agbonlahor gets clear late on but slices wide for Villa after good defending from Cresswell. So it's no wins in 11 away games for West Ham, which isn't good enough. Those injuries to Carroll and Sakho seem to have deprived us of all firepower. Roll on the end of the season.

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