The first game in the new era of West Ham United under Nuno Espirito Sant saw the club struggle to draw against Everton on Monday night. The game still ended as a 1-1 draw, but it brought hope to a side that has not been able to reach consistency throughout this season.
Nuno, who had been appointed only days before as Graham Potter’s successor, had little time to stamp his authority, but even at this early stage, his pragmatic approach could be seen.
The defensive Viking Portuguese man who had taken over the ship at Wolverhampton Wanderers and Nottingham Forest, stabilised the ship instantly with his defensive organisation. West Ham appeared tighter and more disciplined, and attacked the goal as a unit and with renewed spirit.
The draw in the second half demonstrated the squad’s strength, but defensive weaknesses in set-ups are still a concern, having conceded a corner. The solutions to these problems will be of prime concern to Nuno’s rebuild because the Hammers cannot afford to concede soft goals in a competitive season in the Premier League.
Talking about the game later, the 51-year-old complimented his players on their level of effort and cohesiveness and emphasized the value of working as a team. Compete as a team, keep near together, and the boys did well, he said. This will be the weapon of progress in this match.
That draw was not a perfect performance, but it was like a hint that West Ham might become stable under their new manager. The renewed fighting spirit will be welcomed by fans who are fed up with the club’s dismal performance.
To Nuno, it was not one point that had been won but a foundation. Provided discipline is enforced more and belief is enhanced, his tenure would be the turning point of West Ham’s season.
