Last time for West Ham at this historic old ground – hope Everton get a better ‘transition’ to their new ground than West Hams’ experience in 2016. From the kick-off, [West Ham](https://www.claretandhugh.info/west-hams-next-number-9-knocking-on-the-door/) set up in a low block as per usual and Everton were out of the traps like greyhounds with their fast press. A fairly fluid start with West Ham having Paquetá seemingly sitting on the right side of midfield, just behind the front two.
West Ham’s first corner came at 11 minutes, really the first time they escaped the press. Ward-Prowse hitting the perfect spot for Bowen’s deflected header to be saved brilliantly by Pickford.
Very different pressing, West Ham dropping back and allowing Everton plenty of time on the ball wheras the Hammers defenders were always under pressure: West Ham did start to string little triangles of passes together but slow and sideways, predictably.
Surprisingly, lots of action down Everton’s right wing with defender O’Brien crossing for Beto to attack: Mavropanos was under pressure increasingly as the half wore on.
Out of nothing, Bowen brought a top save out of Pickford, fed by Kilman, West Hams’ captain teed himself up and volleyed from outside the ‘D’ – great effort, closest thing to a goal after half an hour. Good save shortly after down at the other end, as Areola saved from O’Brien, Emerson slow to close down.
Scrappy play in West Ham’s box and – anEverton penalty given just before half time! That must be reviewed, Mavropanos kicked the ground, not the player. If anything, It should be a free kick to West Ham. Good work VAR. For a change. Overruled.
Everton – industrious, lacking quality, West Ham the odd flash of threat but typically ‘away’ format, lots of back passing, defending and kicking long after failing to beat the press. This game isn’t on the TV in the UK. You aren’t missing much!