When the fixture list came out, my first thoughts were that it could have been a lot worse for Sam Allardyce and West Ham United. Very much like last season, the first six matches provide us with a massive chance to get some early wins and points on the board.
Last season shows just what a good start can do. It took the pressure off of us during the middle part of the season when we lost a bit of form. But we were never really in the mix for relegation.
A good start will provide the players with the confidence that they can have another good season. The aim is to improve on last season’s 10th place finish. Second season syndrome is hard to deal with, and with many clubs around also buying well in the summer, the season ahead could mean one of the hardest ever for the Hammers.
Getting Andy Carroll back, and fit will also be key, depending on who we sign between now and the end of the transfer window. However, Modibo Maiga has been scoring in pre-season, but might mean a change in tactics, so I think he may start the season.
Our opening games line-up like this: Cardiff City (H), Newcastle United (A), Stoke City (H), Southampton (A), Everton (H), Hull City Tigers (A) – I would fancy us to win our first three home games, and if we could draw the first three away games, I would be delighted. But we all know what West Ham are like, and we drop points when we expect a win. Am I being unrealistic…you tell me!
COME ON YOU IRONS!!
By Chelmo Hammer
No not at all, I too think that 12 pts is possible, if not more.
But knowing West Ham, any things possible, possibly more points, probably less 🙁
Keep the faith we can do it. Solid at the back. Downing and Jarvis on the wings and Andy up front it’s possible. Come on you Irons can’t wait
onwards and upward
I’m more than happy with Downing. Liverpool fans think we are mugs, and we think they are mugs, everyone’s happy.
Think we will do well this season to be honest, with the likes of Carroll and downing west ham will get the best out of them and the fans will show appreciation unlike Liverpool being a small fish in a big pond, west ham pay 21m for downing and Carroll better then paying 55m so thanks Liverpool
Must admit I wasn’t over excited by the rumours that have been niggling for a while, concerning the potential signing of Downing. However, in true Hammers fan style, I’m getting all optimistic about the prospect of Downing and Carroll clicking and Jarvis on the other wing, even Ravel Morrison looks like he might come good this season, Maiga might get a run in the side to start with and get among the goals and what with Stevie Lomas doing a sterling job at Millwall, it’s just too good to be true…….cue relegation scrap !!!!! COYI.