West Ham United climbed to 5th in the Premier League after a convincing 2-0 win against the Canaries, who suffered their 3rd defeat since returning to the top flight, at the London Stadium. Then manager, Manuel Pellegrini hailed Haller as the complete player after he scored twice against Watford before giving the Hammers the lead from close range at home on 24th minute from a Masuaku cross.
“He scores goals but works a lot for the team as well. He will continue improving in every game.” Pellegrini said following the match.
“Sebastien is a complete player.”
Yarmalenko doubled the Hammers lead with a volley after newly promoted and struggling Norwich failed to clear their lines and completed a turn around from the opening day 5-0 defeat to then Champions Manchester City. It seemed as if the new season would see West Ham fair better than last seasons troubled start to the campaign, with a performance to inspire confidence amongst the vociferous home support.
It looked as if the team were in a much better shape than 12 months ago and there was plenty of reason for optimism after a draw with Brighton, win against Watford, Carabao Cup victory over Newport County and another home win against Norwich City.
Although teams in the bottom third of the table after 5 games would pretty much remain there, no-one could have imagined the fall that would happen as David Moyes took over the reigns on 29th December 2019 with the Hammers down in 17th in the league struggling with form, particularly after a series of injuries to key players.
A reminder of better times from a season that was impacted by COVID-19 lockdown restrictions and where the Hanners, under Moyes stewardship secured Premier League status by the skin of our teeth with only two games remaining.
Lets hope the coming season will be quite different.
From the Stands 