A Tense But Fascinating Contest
It was a tense but fascinating contest at the London Stadium last evening as West Ham hosted Arsenal in one of the most important games of the season.
West Ham Played A Brilliant Game
Arsenal were the favourites to win, but West Ham played with great intent and purpose, matching Arsenal blow to blow. In my opinion, West Ham played a brilliant game but were undone by a sensational David Raya and a bit of misfortune. The Hammers had more shots (4) on goal than Arsenal (2) and forced more corners (4) than the visitors (3), too.
Arsenal Had Their Chances
The Gunners had their chances, but the Hammers put their bodies on the line and defied every move which threatened their goal.
David Raya Saves Arsenal With An Incredible Save
The moment of truth, which turned the match on its head, came in the second half with just about 10 minutes remaining in the match. In a terrific move from the left, Mateus Fernandes, the young Portuguese, got into a great position to score with only David Raya to beat. Fernandes took a shot for the near post, which Raya saved in an incredible piece of goalkeeping. His outstretched right leg obstructed the ball, and a great opportunity was nullified by an exceptional Raya.
Trossard Scores For The Gunners
West Ham lost a bit of steam momentarily after that save, but it was enough for Arsenal to capitalise. With several passes inside the West Ham box, the ball came to Trossard, who belted a right footer which took a slight deflection of a defender and went into the net. Arsenal had scored with just 7 minutes left on the clock. The match had slipped away from West Ham for good. But there was more drama in the offing.
The Hammers Respond, but Are Denied By A Controversial VAR decision
The Hammers were not going down without a fight, and Callum Wilson struck for West Ham in stoppage time to equalise. They had done a favour to Manchester City, too. But the joy was short-lived as VAR intervened, and after a series of checks, the goal was disallowed for an infringement on David Raya. Pablo had pulled his shirt as the corner kick swirled into the box. The infringement led to Raya losing the ball, which resulted in the goal. The euphoria of West Ham’s goal was canned as it was.
Arsenal Inch Closer To Title, But West Ham Stare At Relegation
West Ham could do no further heroics, and Arsenal won the match and moved closer to the EPL Title. West Ham, despite all their efforts, are staring down the barrel with their Premier League status under severe duress.
What a game it was at the London Stadium. Akin to one melodramatic saga.
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