West Ham United U21s 1-1 Olympique Lyonnais U21s
Premier League International Cup, Chigwell Construction Stadium, Tuesday 28 November 2023
A last gasp goal Hammers goal gave the under 21s a draw in their 1-1 Premier League International Cup draw with Olympique Lyonnais U21s. The Hammers were grateful to George Earthy who found the bottom of the net with seconds to spare
Romain Perret’s penalty looked to have won the visitors the game on 88 minutes but it would have been a harsh defeat on the Development team who had more than played their part in a well-contested contest at Chigwell Construction Stadium
Last gasp Hammers goal
Thankfully, Kaelan Casey’s header fell kindly into the path of midfielder George Earthy, who sweetly struck on the half-volley to level the game in the closing exchanges.
The Hammers and Lyon sat in first and second spot in Group B ahead of the game and whilst the French side were the better team early on, the Hammers grew into the game.
Gideon Kodua saw a fine strike on target saved before Callum Marshall had the best chance of the first half for the home side with his attempt stopped by Pereira.
Gideon Kodua saw a first-time shot fly over the bar in the second half but their hard work looked to have come to nothing when Junior Robison being adjudged to have fouled Dib in the area and Perret converted.
Then came the final twist via Earthy and a point which keeps the Hammers top of the group with three games played, with a final group stage match to come against Dinamo Zagreb in January.
West Ham United U21s: Anang, Chesters (Robinson 70), Laing, Casey ©, Luizao, Scarles, Orford, Kelly (Moore 90), Earthy, Kodua, Marshall
Subs not used: Terry, Clayton, Tarima, Fawunmi, Rigge
Goals: Earthy 90+5,
Booked: Luizao, Marshall, Scarles