[West Ham](https://www.claretandhugh.info/burnley-0-2-west-ham-nunos-high-risk-strategy-rated-as-hammers-cruise-it/) achieved their first clean sheet since September – ironically with the same much maligned goalkeeper in between the sticks this time around – as the Irons cruised past Burnley at Turf Moor this afternoon.
Couldn’t help feeling apprehensive for **Mads Hermansen** who had endured a torrid start to his West Ham career ,but he rode his early indecision to look reasonably composed throughout. The Dane came through just fine with a couple of decent saves – one high quality in the second half – and his trademark good quality distribution of the ball.
**Freddie Potts’** introduction in the second half stopped Burnley’s resurgence just as the Clarets looked like they were going to get something from the game: Echoes of Stamford Bridge until Nuno brought Potts on for Callum Wilson which dealt pretty well with Burnley’s midfield domination: Potts strode around looking absolutely imperious as the threat was quickly dealt with.
Potts tackled with steel and Nuno should get the credit for making the right call this time round. Burnley’s recovery was snuffed out as Potts and Fernandes took back control of the midfield.
**Axel Disasi** ran into the Burnley ‘box in added time and launched a shot – just in case anyone was in any doubt as to the on-loan defender’s fitness. The confidence which had spread through the back line from Disasi’s solidity was palpable and if he stays fit, he’s guaranteed at least another thirteen games, justifying Nuno’s high risk selection strategy.
Hard work from just about every team member – defending from the front, closing down, covering each other: Just what the doctor ordered.
After Burnley’s ten minute second half spell during which there was a dreadful sense of dejà vu that conceding looked inevitable, West Ham were back in control thanks to Nuno’s changes and their game management was good enough to take the points.
Four wins in five and now three points separate the Hammers from safety. Singling out that trio this afternoon is not to ignore other efforts: Fernandes in his now Mark Noble-esque midfield role: Castellanos’ first goal in the Premier League, Mavropanos’ full game staying ‘in the zone’ and Summerville’s finishing were equally responsible for the three points.
Tougher test await but regardless, hope lives on.