Success in _two penalty shootouts in successive weeks_ proved just too much for [West Ham](https://www.claretandhugh.info/absentee-from-u21s-squad-fuels-nuno-call-up-rumour-west-ham-news/) yesterday as the u21’s went down in the cruellest of fashions having led the game against Borehamwood until the dying seconds. The Irons youngsters took a 2-0 lead in the National League cup final through Lewis Orford and striker Josh Landers.
This in a side captained by Airidas Golambeckis who, incidentally, looks every inch the future Hammers defender and surely another academy prospect with a future in seniors football alongside the higher – profile Orford and Preston Fearon.
In the second half, Borehamwood pulled a goal back but looked to be beaten as West Ham’s goalkeeper Fin Herrick pulled off several fine saves to deny the senior home side.
Striker Josh Landers fires West Ham in front
Fate transpired against the Hammers and it was Herrick’s unfortunate error that allowed a shot fired straight at him to dribble through his legs and into the net in the 89th minute -for the home side to equalise and send the game to penalties.
Sic perfect penalties each but then West Ham’s seventh was well saved by Borehamwood’s keeper and the trophy was theirs.
Massive credit and vitally, _no disgrace for anyone involved_: Sad to see the young Hammers fail by the narrowest of margins. A huge travelling crowd of well over 1000 filled the away end with Hammers support and the air with ‘bubbles’ throughout.
Great game, free TV for fans and – when the dust has settled and their disappointment faded – an excellent effort by our youngsters who can be justly proud of their cup run.