West Ham plunged deeper into trouble as David Moyes saw his first game in charge end in defeat to Watford this afternoon.
Most Hammers fans were quietly optimistic going into the match, but instead were greeted with what can only be labelled as ‘same old West Ham’.
David Moyes was left startled just 10 minutes in when Pedro Obiang failed to clear his lines from a cross and Will Hughes stroked the ball past Joe Hart with a pivoted finish for his first Premier League goal.
It took West Ham 40 minutes to see their first chance of the game when Cheikhou Kouyate managed to find himself one-on-one with Watford goalkeeper Heurelho Gomes, but was unable to bring the Hammers level as his shot was saved.
Marko Arnautovic then had the best chance for the visitors just before half-time, but his deflected header was remarkably saved by Gomes and his rebounded shot was kept out equally as impressively.
The second-half did not get much better for the Hammers, with Kouyate blasting his effort over the bar from 10 yards with 55 minutes gone.
The Hornets punished them 25 minutes from time when Richarlison’s effort curled past Joe Hart to give the home side a two-goal advantage.
Manuel Lanzini then saw his drilled effort cleared off the line by the retreating Watford defender, Christian Kabasele.
The defeat leaves West Ham 18th in the league, but Watford move up to an impressive 8th.
West Ham United have a quick turnaround this week before next Friday night’s matchup against Leicester City at The London Stadium, whilst Watford travel north to St James’ Park where they’ll take on Rafa Benitez’s Newcastle United.
By Frankie Levin
@FrankWHUFC
(Don’t forget to check out our match review from tonight’s game, hosted by Geo with Tom as guest – it’s a damning analysis I’m afraid)
Spot on with your analysis Frank. Let’s hope Moyes can use the next 4 days to implement his ideas and style on this team which is obviously struggling with confidence and form. I feel confident that he has the experience and abilities to turn things round for us. Although I believe he needs financial backing this coming transfer window.