OPINION
West Ham United fans have not really had much praise to heap on boss Manuel Pellegrini following three successive losses on the bounce in the Premier League.
However, they had something to smile about on Tuesday night after progressing to the third round of the Carabao Cup after a 3-1 victory over AFC Wimbledon.
It may not be their first league win but it certainly throws down the gauntlet for things to come, and with Wolverhampton Wanderers up next, the only way is up.
Yes, their victory was over League One side with only ten men on the pitch, but Pellegrini got his tactics spot on in this clash after they went behind in the second minute.
The Hammers did not score until the 63rd minute, and up until then, it was undoubtedly a nervous wait for the club faithful, who may have thought that the writing was on the wall for yet another game.
However, the Irons did not panic, and adopted a more calm approach rather than launching the ball forward in desperation.
The team continued to play the ball around without needing to resort to a ‘get it forward quickly’ approach, and Pellegrini only has himself to thank for this style of play.
Patience has long been a label associated with the sides Pellegrini has took charge of previously – Manchester City is a prime example – and judging by this display, the team have got his mentality on their minds.
It takes a lot for a team not to panic after falling behind to a team two divisions below them, especially a side who have only experienced defeat so far this season.
If Pellegrini had not got his tactics right before this match, he certainly did following it – and Irons’ supporters will have their fingers crossed that he ensures it remains this way for the rest of the season.
