Last night’s home fixture against Liverpool provided a tough test for the u21’s side which has been, out of necessity, denuded of much of its better-known talent as players graduated to the seniors or away from the club in the Summer.
Latest to leave were influential midfielder Preston Fearon – who has now gone out on a short term loan to Forest Green, along with influential right back Ryan Battrum who has headed to Southend on a short loan.
Big boots to fill for the young Irons at such short notice: However the academy side emerged victorious against visitors Liverpool, leaving it until the 85th minute to seal a victory after a jinking run and a chipped cross from the Hammers no.11 Joel Kerr (main pic) looped over Liverpool’s unfortunate keeper to nestle in the net.
Young Hammers celebrate an 85th minute winner
By all reports Liverpool had been dominant throughout the game on more than one occasion rattling the woodwork – but the Irons youngsters held on to emerge victorious with a result which represents their first win of this season and which lifts them off the bottom of the PL2 league table on goal difference.