By Kris Gonzo | Senior West Ham Columnist (Follow on X)
Make no mistake about it, Fulham were the better team and deserved to win. But West Ham gave a decent account of themselves against Premier League opposition and showed plenty of character.
Twice the Hammers went behind and twice they fought their way back into the game. Eventually Fulham’s superior pace and quality, particularly from the bench, told. But there was plenty here to suggest that Nuno Espírito Santo’s side are developing a resilience which should serve them well this season.
West Ham player ratings
Herrick – 4
Made an important save just before half-time to prevent Fulham making it 3-1 and tipped an Antonee Robinson effort over after the break. However, there were some uncertain moments, including completely flapping at the resulting corner, and he will probably feel he could have done better with Fulham’s winner.
Walker-Peters – 6
Definitely had his issues defensively and Fulham repeatedly found joy down West Ham’s right in the first half. However, he had some good moments going forward and was always willing to carry the ball at his opponent. His low cross eventually led to Pablo’s equaliser.
Mavropanos – 5
Knocked Engels’ excellent cross back into the danger area for Morato’s goal, but was badly caught out for Fulham’s second. Made an absolute howling error in injury time and was very fortunate Fulham didn’t punish him again.
Kilman – 6
Captained the Hammers and produced an excellent early pass which demonstrated West Ham’s intention to counter quickly. Had one particularly unsteady moment when he missed an interception and allowed Emile Smith Rowe through, but generally remained composed.
Morato – 7
Relished the physical battle and recovered well after one loose touch allowed Smith Rowe an opportunity to cross. Defended aggressively and wasn’t overly concerned by Fulham’s greater pace. Also popped up at the other end to score West Ham’s first equaliser.
Morato celebrates scoring his first West Ham goal against Fulham
Engels – 6
Worked incredibly hard as always and looked comfortable alongside Lewis Orford. His early set-piece delivery was excellent and he was heavily involved in Morato’s goal, swinging in a lethal cross after his initial corner had been returned to him. Couldn’t quite maintain that quality of delivery throughout.
Kanté – 6
Asked to perform an unnatural role on the left during the first half and West Ham suffered from having central midfielders in wide positions. Physical, combative and a real menace once he got the ball under control. Made an important intervention to prevent Fulham potentially going 3-1 ahead before half-time.
Orford – 5
Put in some excellent early tackles and showed his usual composure on the ball. Often dropped deep alongside Engels to receive possession from the centre-backs. Became increasingly exposed as West Ham gambled later in the game.
Mukasa – 5
Started on the right in a makeshift Hammers side before returning to the left. West Ham struggled to get him involved consistently and he was withdrawn after 50 minutes as Nuno called for the cavalry.
Ajala – 5
Wasn’t heavily involved but worked hard alongside Pablo. Won a free-kick in a very dangerous position after being fouled only centimetres outside the penalty area and had a shot blocked shortly before half-time.
Pablo – 7
An enigma. His gangly style clearly makes defenders uncomfortable and he scraps for absolutely everything, although he also spends plenty of time falling over.
Got his reward with his first West Ham goal, arriving unmarked at the back post to smash the ball left-footed into the roof of the net from a tight angle. Departed with a ripped shirt to show for all his battles and endeavours.
Substitutes
Bowen – 7
Definitely made an impact after coming on. Produced a vicious left-footed delivery which Pablo was millimetres away from converting and later supplied a wonderful ball which really should have been finished by Castellanos. Blazed over himself after being released by Solomon.
Solomon – 6
Caused Fulham problems and immediately gave West Ham another attacking dimension. Played a beautiful ball which almost released Bowen on the counter and later produced a wonderful pass to send the captain through. One lovely piece of control and a nutmeg demonstrated his quality, although Fulham’s pace eventually swallowed him up.
Taty Castellanos – 4
Got involved quickly after replacing Pablo but missed a huge opportunity late on. Bowen provided the chance and Castellanos somehow failed to convert what could only be described as half an open goal. Very poor from Taty and exactly the sort of opportunity a striker usually gobbles up.
Scarles – Not rated
Not on long enough to score.
Piroe – Not rated
Not on long enough to score.