Eight minutes gone with scrappy possession and the first real chance of the half fell to Everton who cut West Ham open on the break – a very, very good block from Summerville who was fastest to complete the recovery run – shut out a certain shot on goal. West Ham starting in the ‘regular’ formation of Antonio, Summerville and Bowen as a front 3 with Paquetà behind in the ’10’ role.
Lots of action down West Ham’s left as Summerville looked to press the ageing Ashley Young. One or two signs that the front three and Paquetà growing in confidence as Bowen put through but offside. At the other end, without tempting fate Todibo and Kilman looked quite secure.
Wan Bissaka looking much less the wing back and more secure, staying in his own half. Better signs from West Ham in terms of possession, Paquetá looking more ‘engaged’ than the last few weeks. Lopetegui screaming for his defenders to push up the pitch, Irons were starting to defend very deep. Quite noticeable that the atmosphere at London Stadium is more cricket match than football. Very flat. Forty minutes and the first chance: Calvert Lewin heading into Fabianski’s arms.
Finally WestHam’s turn to come close after Antonio bullied his way into Everton’s box and sent wide to Bowen whose shot was well saved by Pickford – West Ham corner just on half time. Nothing results and one more minute- Bowen through again passing to Antonio and saved well to give another corner. Nothing doing, half time. A few half-chances right at the end suggest better things from West Ham in the second half – it can only get better. And a clean sheet at half time is quite a rarity!
