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West Ham go into the break with the upper hand in this afternoon's clash with Blackburn Rovers.

Paul Ince, returning to his old stomping ground for the first time as a manager saw his side fall behind after just 12 minutes when Calum Davenport rose highest to connect with a pinpoint Julien Faubert corner.

Just eight minutes later and for the second home Premier League game in succession the Hammers were two up. A superb 40-yard pass from Mark Noble sent Julien Faubert away on the right flank; the Frenchman's low cross being met by the advancing Noble whose shot was deflected in via the knee of the unfortunate Samba.

But not for the first time this season the Hammers were caught half asleep immediately after scoring a goal. Calum Davenport was the villain of the piece this time, allowing Jason Roberts to squirm free from his grasp and fire home under the body of Rob Green from close range.

Rovers thought they had equalised just ahead of the half-time break but Matt Derbyshire's apparently 'good' goal was disallowed by referee Riley. For what exactly remains something of a mystery.

All in all it has been an excellent first half effort from the Hammers who have played football on the ground, whilst giving their opponents little room to manouvre - especially in the centre of the park where Mark Noble and Scott Parker have both enjoyed a superb opening half.

We'll have more for you at the final whistle.

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