Another bore draw for West Ham, if it wasn't for a moment of brilliance (or fluke) from Pennant, against Stoke, that would be 3 0-0's in a row; defensively brilliant, offensively shambolic.
The trip to Southampton would have been a dull, disappointing one for our travelling fans, but never the less, a draw away to Southampton is a good result in my eyes.
A point was salvaged by an impressive displays from Jussi who kept West Ham in the game, West Hams best chance unfortunately fell to James Collins who blazed his effort over the bar. West Ham may feel a little hard done by, having a goal ruled out that appeared on side and also seeing Southampton midfielder Morgan Schneiderlin remain on the pitch after a nasty tackle on Diame.
Maiga looks lost and I feel sorry for him. I don't think his ability should be questioned but hes fighting a losing battle trying to hold the ball up alone. Some fans might not agree with me but I'd like to see Nolan up front, Nolan has a great eye for goal when presented with the chance, is a real handful for defenders both verbally and physically and I think in midfield he can go missing and often slow down play. This would also give freedom to Ravel to take up to role behind the front man.
Injury is troubling West Ham who are short of attacking options ahead of Saturday's Premier League match at home to Everton.
Andy Carroll (heel) is proving to be a big loss for the misfiring Hammers whilst the game comes too soon for new signing Mladen Petric, who is still striving to improve his fitness. Joe Cole and Stewart Downing are also missing, while Alou Diarra is a long-term absentee
Loan signing Romelu Lukaku is set for his Everton debut at West Ham having been ineligible for last weekend's fixture against parent club Chelsea.
Fellow striker Arouna Kone is also expected to return to the squad after a knee injury along with midfielder Darron Gibson, who has not featured this season because of a knee injury. Midfielder Steven Pienaar is rated 50-50 but centre-back Antolin Alcaraz is still recovering from a similar problem.
Gareth Barry isn't everyones cup of tea but put in a great performance on Chelsea. Steady rather than spectacular, he does a great anchoring role, West Ham will have to cut him out in order to get the ball in midfield and create chances.
I am not confident here but we look defensively solid and I think Upton Park is a difficult place to come for any team.
I predict a 1-0 win for West Ham
Enjoy the game. And make Upton Park rock all afternoon.
COYI
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