The Third round of the FA Cup is normally treated a something of a distraction for most Premier League managers, who send out substandard sides or add in a couple of fringe players and second choice ‘keepers to provide game time to otherwise unemployed ‘extras’s. As Crystal Palace found out to their cost, the FA Cup has a habit of throwing up nasty surprises.
Nuno Espirito Santo desperately needs a win. Any win.
Trying to break the cycle of late-goal losses which has been such a sickener for fans to witness and which has dropped the Irons deep in the mire in the Premier League will never be easier than against mid-table Championship opponents Queens Park Rangers this afternoon.
‘Winning’ is as much of a habit as ‘losing’ and West Ham can start the momentum moving in their favour and instil a temporary, tiny bit of feelgood factor around the training ground by seeing off the lower tier side who will, no doubt, come scenting blood and seeking another upset.
It is not a time for timidity: West Ham need to show they are still worthy of their fans’ admiration in front of what could well be one of their last near sell-out crowds if they fail in their relegation campaign. An unthinkable Hammers’ heavy defeat could be the final nail in Nuno’s coffin: Even David Sullivan has limits to his indulgence of his own managerial choice.
The huge numbers of ‘super hoops’ supporters apparently planning to attend can make this a cracking cup-tie atmosphere. It is up to Nuno to respond and send his team out with some fire in their belly and an appetite for the fight.
If they have it in them.
Send out a “sub-standard” team ? We do that every week !
Love the FA Cup, COYI.