Pardew: we were Konned

Alan Pardew has leapt to the defence of full-back Paul Konchesky after he was sent off in the 0-0 draw with Newcastle this afternoon.

Pardew, talking to reporters after the match urged referee Dermot Gallagher to review a video of the game, claiming that Konchesky took the ball before the man - a view backed up by television pictures which clearly show Konchesky making contact with the ball first.

"I think he got it wrong - and perhaps on Monday he might view it differently," said a disappointed Pardew.

"I teach my players that when they go to ground they must take the ball - as you suffer a fine if you don't. But it should not take away from a really outstanding performance from us.

"I thought Nigel Reo-Coker, Anton Ferdinand and Danny Gabbidon were fantastic today; it was a good point, and every point for us is like gold dust.

"We are a strong team and it is our ultimate goal to make the opposition play to their maximum. I believe we did that to Newcastle."

Pardew also praised his team for taking four points from their opening two fixtures - results which mean the Hammers stay in the top four.

"It is early days but we have got four points against two very good teams - and I will settle for that."

* Paul Konchesky will miss West Ham's next fixture against Bolton should Gallagher stand by his decision to award a red card.