By Hughie Southon
Hammers 1 Aston Villa 1
It had draw written all over it beforehand and so it turned out with the Hammers lifting themselves out of the bottom three on goal difference.
But with Southampton earning a 0-0 draw at Manchester United the pressure still remains very much on the Irons who at least showed some real grit atthe London Stadium.
Villa took a 17th minute lead through Watkins but Paqueta earned us what was probably a soft penalty when tumbling in the box and Benny stepped up to slam home a 26th minute equaliser.
The Hammers had plenty of the ball but the No 22 four shots fly over and wide whilst Villa saw Areola save really well from Watkins close to half time.
Bowen continually caused problems down the left and Paqueta – before being subbed – showed some genuine skill.
It wasn’t a result to keep many happy given that we had genuine chances but we now have to wait until April 2 for another game and the anxiety levels will remain high as a result.
Less passes, less possession same old game. How can we expect to get out of trouble if we haven’t got the ball!