It’s totally unavoidable of course but despite being handed down the usual cliches about over confidence and under estimating oppositions we do it anyway.
Fulham, in the minds of many, will already have been written off for win purposes when people fill in their fixed odds coupons over the weekend.
A first win of the season over West Brom will have done little to suggest to most that the match is destined for anything but a Hammers win despite this being the craziest of seasons at times.
Even allowing for what has been our unerring ability to lose to such teams this is one we should win. However we will need a big time change of system!
Whereas our good results have so far been based on a counter attacking game against very good teams we will need to keep plenty of possession and make things happen with Fulham no doubt coming with a defensive formation looking for a point.
Moyes should certainly – and almost certainly has – borne that in mind during training this weekend with former Hammers hero, now Fulham boss, Scotty Parker returning looking for what would be a memorable victory over us.
I see a 3-0 Hammers win.
Would this not be an ideal match to pair Haller with Benrhama to get the best out of Haller & restore his value? Must ensure they do not bring Antonio back too soon from FULL injury recovery & much longer-term absence!
I think we’ll be typical West Ham this weekend. After doing so well against the stronger sides in the last few games I can see us struggling. Hope I’m wrong but I’m going for a 1-1.
Underestimating your opponent is a recipe for disaster. They were promoted and will fight tooth and nail. Possession yes, change of shape probably, change of first 11 no thanks.