Former footballer and talkSPORT host Andy Townsend didn’t mince words as he criticized West Ham’s performance in their 4-1 defeat to Aston Villa on October 22. Townsend expressed his disappointment, claiming that the Hammers were well beaten by the hosts during the match, relays the WHZ.
Speaking on talkSPORT, Townsend noted that West Ham had opportunities to test Aston Villa’s goalkeeper, Emiliano Martinez, and get themselves into advantageous positions. However, he was quick to point out that the team’s decision-making and execution in the final third of the pitch were lacking.
Townsend shared his thoughts on David Moyes’ post-match comments regarding the refereeing performance. The West Ham boss had expressed his grievances, but Townsend believed that despite Moyes’ criticism, the outcome of the match was clear.
He said, “I mean listen, Moysey doesn’t normally dress it up, he obviously feels particularly aggrieved, but in the end, they were well beaten. I watched most of that game yesterday, Ally, and I thought West Ham were really wasteful when they got into some good situations, good opportunities to maybe work Martinez better. I thought they were poor. I thought they were poor in the last third with their crossing, shooting, final delivery, the final ball was non-existent, really.”
Indeed, West Ham’s wastefulness in attack was a key factor in their defeat, with the team struggling to pose a consistent threat to the opposing goalkeeper. Even Jarrod Bowen’s goal, which came via a deflection, highlighted their difficulties in the final third.
David Moyes and his team will be eager to put this result behind them, especially after a strong start to the season that saw them climb the Premier League table. While the defeat to Aston Villa was a setback, there is no cause for alarm at this stage.
West Ham must regroup as they prepare for their upcoming Europa League fixture against Olympiacos in Greece on Thursday, October 26. This match provides an opportunity for the Hammers to bounce back and continue their impressive form in European competition.