5th of March 2011. The last time West Ham won back-to-back Premier League games. In the season that the Hammers were relegated in 20th place, they beat Liverpool and Stoke City to claim back-to-back victories in the Premier League. Still to this very day, that has no been replicated since.
The impressive performance against the very unimpressive Fulham on Saturday has left us with another shot at back-to-back victories in the league as West Ham take a trip to Selhurst Park, to face bottom of the league Crystal Palace. This is perhaps our best shot at achieving the consecutive wins.
Crystal Palace now have the cap-wearing Tony Pulis in charge and he has effectively been manager for two games thus far – despite not being officially announced until after the Hull City game. His first was a victory, whilst he was sitting in the stands. When he moved down to the touchline, they lost. However, this will be his first home game in charge.
Two former Hammers will likely feature against West Ham on Tuesday, with Danny Gabbidon and Marouane Chamakh now flapping their wings for the Eagles.
Tricky wingers, Jason Puncheon and Barry Bannan will likely feature on either wings, and will switch when necessary.
Palace are inevitably more direct under Pulis. However, this is not his squad so to speak. He hasn’t had a transfer window in charge as of yet, so is having to make do with players in which he may not necessarily want. Sam Allardyce is also known for his direct style of play, however, the majority of his squad are his signings, and he has flushed out the players which he didn’t want after a few years in charge.
Palace have a strong home atmosphere and will be looking to give Tony Pulis a good welcome, making this game tougher than many have had versus the Eagles so far. West Ham will have a newfound confidence after the Fulham victory and must be aiming for three points against the worst side in the division so far.
Crystal Palace have some talented youngsters in their side but have struggled to make them ‘click’ so far this year.
You’d imagine that both sets of fans will be expecting a win. The better performers being away from home usually makes for an even game, when the sides are separated by only a few points.
Will West Ham continue with starting a striker, and will Maiga get the nod over the Colescorer?
Back-to-back London derbies is a certainty. Back-to-back victories is the aim. A tough fixture, despite what the table would tell you. However, the Hammers fans will be hopeful of the three points.
