Hartlepool Utd v West Ham Utd: half time report

  • by Staff Writer
  • Saturday, 24th January 2009

The Hammers go into the break in a good position following a solid first half performance at Victoria Park.

Goals from Valon Behrami and Mark Noble have put Gianfranco Zola's side 2-0 up and into what appears to be an unassailable position as the teams head off for their half time refreshments.

The Hammers, who rested Matthew Upson and captain Lucas Neill for today's encounter with League One Hartlepool were rarely threatened in the opening 45 minutes and struck twice in the final moments of the half to take command of the game.

Behrami broke the deadlock on 44 minutes when he fired across goal as the ball broke loose in the box. The lead was doubled in the second minutes of first half injury time when Noble converted a penalty, incorrectly awarded as the infringement - a hand ball by the unfortunate Nelson - clearly occured outside the box.

Carlton Cole missed a good opportunity to break the deadlock when expertly slipped through on goal by David Di Michele on 38 minutes. At the other end Rob Green was barely tested although Scott Parker was forced to make one goal line clearance after just nine minutes of play.

All in all a great 45 for the Hammers who should now go on to secure their place in tomorrow's fifth round draw. We'll have more for you at the final whistle.

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