‘Arnie’ and Martinez make it a day of Irons firsts
Werder Bremen 2 Irons 2
(Bremen lift Betway Cup 3-2 on aggregate)
The Hammers took the field with the team that had finised strongly in the first match between the two sides yesterday and totally dominated proceedings despite an early goal from Luca Caldirola’s header following a well placed free kick.
But the dazzling Arthur Masuaku – who set up many attacking efforts was responsible for playing a great ball through to the club’s record signing on the 26th minute who had a simple job of converting at the near post .
Snodgrass – looking a much improved performer – headed into the side netting from a tight angle after Arnie’ had gone close with a rasping drive.
Slav’s first half team included Hart, Pablo Zabaleta, Jose Fonte, Angelo Ogbonna and Andre Ayew and they went into the lead in the second half when Ayew supplied a great cross for Toni Martinez to head home beautifully.
But Zhang – on loan to Bremen from WBA – equalised 10 minutes from the end to ensure the hosts won the Betway Cupon aggregate.
The result however, was unimportant in real terms given that the level of performance was vastly improved and the arrival of Declan Rice on 60 minutes again showed that this 17 year old is a very special player.
Josh Cullen had produced a fine first half display as the Academy prospects begin to give the manager the most pleasant of first team selection headaches – they really do look ready.
One thing looks nailed on at this point however, that Masuaku should start ahead of Cresswell. Once again he showed himself to be a potent operator down the left with Zabaleta again looking the business on the right.
And it’s easy to see why the club went all the way for Arnautovich who linked with him in superb fashion through his time on the pitch.
All this and Hernandez, Lanzini, Antonio, Sakho, and possibly Carroll to come.