The Hammers have their noses in front at the break in this afternoon's Premier League clash thanks to Junior Stanislas' first Premier league strike.
The latest product to emerge from the Academy put Gianfranco Zola's under-strength side ahead three minutes before the break when he completed a superb counter attack from close range.West Ham - already minus several first teamers - started the game without both Scott Parker and Radoslav Kovac. The central midfield duo were replaced by Jon Spector and Luis Boa Morte, back in the side after recent injury.
United could have taken the lead in the opening minute but James Tomkins could only nod a free header from a corner wide of the post. Seven minutes later Rob Green had to be at his best to deny Grant Leadbitter whose 25-yard drive brought out a fingertip save from the England stopper.
David Di Michele, without a goal for some time saw two good chances go begging; his first, a fierce volley from outside the box flew narrowly wide of Craig Gordon's near post whilst he went even closer in the final minute of the half with a curling effort from close range.
We'll have more for you at the final whistle.
West Ham Utd: Green, Neill, Ilunga, Tomkins, Upson, Noble, Spector, Stanislas, Boa Morte, Di Michele, Tristan.
Subs: Lastuvka, Lopez, Collins, Payne, Savio, Dyer, Sears.
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