How we rated the Irons v Anderlecht
Gonzo gives his ratings
Areola:6 Had to wait until the 39th min to make his first save. Hard to assess such was his inactivity due to West Ham’s dominance. No chance with the penalty.
Johnson:7 Really solid and looked very composed on the right side of a back 3. Remained resolute as his team mates succumbed to injury. Harshly had a penalty awarded against him in the 87th min.
Ogbonna: A comfortable start but concerningly was substituted with an injury after 20 mins.
Cresswell:8 Very bright and enjoying his best form for some time.
Coufal:6 Largely untroubled and linked well with Bowen early on.
Emerson:7 Steady. Gets involved in some of our more intricate attacking moves, driving run created a goal for Bowen.
Downes:8 More of the same from a player who looks very comfortable every time he plays. Surely a Premier League start can’t be far away.
Lanzini:7 Neat and tidy. Mauel looked very comfortable deployed in this possession based team selection. Played 90 mins in a game which West Ham dominated.
Paqueta:7 Really starting to settle into an improving team. Such good technique and never stops battling. Subbed after 45 mins in preparation for the Saints game.
Benrahma:8 Full array of tricks on show and scored a perfectly executed dipping freekick. Excellent display.
Bowen:8 Could have scored a few but netted West Ham’s second with a precise left foot shot. Lively and looking near to his best.
Dawson:7 20 min introduction following Ogbonna’s injury. Gave the ball away once but looked solid thereafter. Sustained an injury which meant he had to be substituted too.
Fornals:7 On at half time. Immediately up to the pace of the game and involved in a flowing attack
Scamacca:6 On for Bowen with 30 mins remaining. Almost got on the end of a good cross from Fornals.
Rice:6 Replaced Cresswell and moved into the backline.
Soucek:6 On as an emergency sub to replace the limping Dawson. By the time he was introduced the game had become a bit stale but he still had time for a shot following a great run from Benrahma.