Albion slipped to a third straight home defeat as high flying West Ham punished the Baggies for a lack of clinical finishing. We've now scored just two goals in seven games. Albion's lack of confidence in front of goal was clearly evident throughout the entire 90 minutes.
TEAM
Two changes were made by Tony Pulis as fit again Ben Foster was instantly recalled to the side in place of Boaz Myhill. Sessegnon also made way for 17 year old Jonathan Leko to make his full Barclays Premier League debut. Saido Berahino was back amongst the substitutes after being omitted from the squad against Tottenham.
TACTICS
For the first 25 minutes Albion were completely dominant. It could quite easily have been a very different game if we had taken one of our host of chances. Craig Gardner was the biggest culprit as he spurned every opportunity that was presented to him. Against the run of play, it was West Ham that took the lead in the 34th minute. The ball broke kindly for the visitors and Dimitri Payet provided the cross in which Kouyate headed home.
Just as it looked as though Albion were only going to be 1-0 down at the interval, the Hammers doubled their lead. Kouyate turned provider as he burst down the wing and crossed for Noble to toe poke the ball past Foster.
After the break there was still plenty of attacking intent on display from both sides. Berahino came on as a substitute and fired agonisingly wide from a great position. Rondon also went close but West Ham defended superbly well. Another substitute Sandro also tried his luck with a 25 yard strike which was just off target.
Any lingering hopes of a comeback from Albion were dashed when West Ham scored a fantastic third goal. Payet did well to pick out Carroll who sent in a great ball which was volleyed home by the impressive Mark Noble to cap off an emphatic victory for the Hammers.
PERFORMANCE
It was a disappointing afternoon from the majority of Albion players with the only exception being Jonathan Leko. Some fans were surprised to see the youngster start in place of Sessegnon but he performed admirably. He gave Cresswell a torrid time with his trickery and pace.
Defensively we looked lethargic whilst our midfield seemed to be completely overrun by the power and drive of Kouyate and Noble.
MAN OF THE MATCH
Without doubt Jonathan Leko. In the first half he created numerous chances for Craig Gardner in particular, as well as tracking back to cover his defensive duties. Having only turned 17 a few days earlier it would be easy to assume he may have been overawed by the occasion. However he was bright and enthusiastic and asked constant questions of the West Ham defence.
TALKING POINT
Another Saido Berahino? Chants of 'He's one of our own' were heard from some sections of the
Albion fans. Jonathan Leko could surely become a fans favourite if he continues to show this type of potential. He has been likened by the Albion staff to fellow Academy graduate Berahino. The lack of cutting edge up front was clear to see and new strikers are surely a must in the summer. However, if Leko continues in the same vain we could be seeing a rising star emerge.
REF WATCH
No big decisions for referee Lee Mason to make. Some strange calls when it came to awarding free kicks but largely a good game for the officials.
WHAT'S NEXT?
Next up is an away trip to face Bournemouth on Saturday. With both teams all but guaranteed safety it should be somewhat of a carnival atmosphere at the Vitality Stadium. The Cherries are certainly not a team to be taken lightly after their impressive first season in the Premier League.
The Baggies faithful are hoping it's not yet another dour away performance but one of attacking intent and a fearless approach. Albion will need to improve both defensively and offensively if we are to get a good result on the South coast.