West Ham United and Sheffield United played out an extremely tight 1-1 draw in their Premier League fixture today. Although the Hammers started the game looking like the stronger side, the second half provided fans with a different perspective on proceedings.
Despite the obvious gulf in quality between the two sides, Chris Wilder’s men gave this tie against West Ham a right go. A new addition to Manuel Pellegrini’s side – Robert Snodgrass repaid his manager’s trust by opening the scoring. Lys Mousset equalised for Sheffield United in the second half, and despite some late Hammers pressure, the game ended in a stalemate.
Here are the West Ham United Player ratings in their draw Vs Sheffield United:
Roberto – 7
The Hammers’ stand-in keeper had a match to remember on the night, making multiple top saves in the first half. Despite his good showing, he was completely helpless about the Blades’ goal.
Pablo Zabaleta – 6
The former Manchester City star’s age is now starting to become apparent. He could’ve made a tackle on Mousset prior to the goal but was eventually too late. Didn’t offer too much going forward either.
Fabian Balbuena – 7
The 28-year-old Balbuena made his way back into the side in place of Ogbonna and didn’t do a bad job. Was quite effective at ensuring that the Blades were limited to very few chances.
Issa Diop – 7
The youngster put in an efficient display in the heart of the defence, thanks to some vital clearances and tackles. Can’t be blamed in any way for the Sheffield goal and didn’t deserve to drop points.
Aaron Cresswell – 5.5
The Englishman didn’t have the best of outings against Sheffield United as he wasn’t offered too much defensive reprieve. Struggled to deal with the Blades’ pressure in the 2nd period.
Declan Rice – 8
The youngster was one of the main positives for Manuel Pellegrini out of today’s fixture. He controlled the tempo of the game well in the first half and defended well in the second.
Mark Noble – 6
Wasn’t able to apply himself quite as much as he usually does, but did well in possession. He did his thing and tried to get the Hammers flowing again but to no avail.
Robert Snodgrass – 8
After being brought into the side after a rather long absence, the winger used this fixture to stake his claim in next week’s starting lineup. Did superbly to grab his goal and was unlucky not to get the winner as well.
Andriy Yarmolenko – 7
Showed glimpses of his quality down the flank today but needs to be more clinical once he gets into the final third. Capable of developing into a considerable asset for Pellegrini.
Felipe Anderson – 6
Just like their last fixture, the Brazilian struggled to have an impact on the fixture, as he was well taken care of by the Blades’ defenders. Seems to be lacking in confidence as well.
Sebastian Haller – 6.5
Struggled to get into the game because of how the Hammers set up. Was required to play with his back to goal today, and although it worked out for him at times, he didn’t have the best of nights.
Substitutes
Manuel Lanzini – 5
Came on and seemed to disappear immediately completely. Failed to have any sort of influence on the result itself.
Pablo Fornals – 7
The Spaniard provides Manuel Pellegrini with an excellent option down the flank. He almost set up Snodgrass for the winner.
Albian Ajeti – 5
Didn’t have time to make an impact.
