MATCH REPORT // CLINICAL CITY HUMBLE HAMMERS AT LONDON STADIUM

 

West Ham United were humbled by Premier League champions Manchester City, the visitors winning 4-1 at London Stadium this afternoon.

Early goals from Leroy Sane and an own goal from Declan Rice ensured an uphill battle from the first half, before Aaron Cresswell reduced the deficit just before half time. In the second half, Gabriel Jesus and Fernandinho added goals to the City tally, ensuring the Champions left Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park comfortably.

Pep Guardiola’s team have overcome many sides with their passing and pressing, and their dominance in possession drove their early breakthrough. Raheem Sterling’s incisive pass to Leroy Sane allowed the winger chance to shoot from 20 yards, but an unfortunate deflection off Patrice Evra saw Adrian wrong-footed.

Manchester City doubled their advantage soon after, De Bruyne crossing into the box at pace, Adrian got a hand to it but in doing so pushed the ball onto Declan Rice, who could do nothing as the ball bounced off him and crept over the line. 

The Hammers grew into the first half once the onslaught subsided. A succession of promising moves resulted in half-chances, but Edimilson Fernandes’ tenacity resulted in the young midfielder being fouled just outside the City penalty area.

Aaron Cresswell then placed the free kick beyond Ederson’s fingertips and inside his post to ensure it was all to play for in the second half.

The visitors however took the game away from the Moyes’ men and were able to score a third seven minutes into the second half. Sterling was allowed into the box, he squared it to Jesus who slotted past Adrian.

Fernandinho added a fourth just after the hour mark, to put the gloss on Manchester City’s victory.

David Moyes’ side travel to Leicester in their next game, looking for the win that will secure Premier League football at London Stadium next season.