As such this was a huge result for Julen Lopetegui, let’s not forget that Newcastle beat both Arsenal and Chelsea before the international break.
The team actually played to the Spanish Head Coaches football philosophy. They were well organised with five at the back, pressing when required, and a strong midfield. Overall some great individual performances from his players.
Jarrod Bowen echoed this after the game when he said “The main thing he wants is a hard working physical team with lots of running and tonight really showed that. Controlling the ball playing out from the back but mixing up as well. Its down to us to adapt to that”
It’s not often that Hammers fans can chant ole at St James Park, yet that was the case with 48% possession, 15 shots, 6 on target and Fabianksi only called on to make two saves.
During the first half West Ham took an early lead, headed home by Soucek, their first goal this season from a corner. They then soaked up the pressure for the remainder of the half.
In the 53rd minute Aaron Wan Bissaka’s shot in off the far post doubled their lead. Only his third goal in 248 appearances, and his first for West Ham.
Lopetegui was humble in his assessment of the game “We are happy. We played well with identity. Newcastle at their stadium is a tough match but we started well. Second half we did well, and deserved to win. We’re happy but have a lot of work to do.”
It doesn’t get any easier, and next up is a London derby against Arsenal, a match where Lopetegui wont be on the touchline, as he collected his third yellow card of the season.
However, Monday nights win takes West Ham three points of Newcastle and away from the relegation zone.
Fans and players will be more confident, Bowen summarised it well “Arsenal will be a tough game but we take a lot from tonight. We go to win the game”
