Pards Salutes Battling Hammers

AFTER watching his side come back to claim a fantastic three points at Wigan, manager Alan Pardew exclaimed that it had been a great day for West Ham United.

But the Hammers boss also preached caution, admitting that Tuesday night's clash at Burnley will be just as important.

"It was a great performance at Wigan," beamed Pards. "Our fans were absolutely terrific, we played very well against one of the best teams in the League and it was a really good day for West Ham United.

"It was an important three points for us. It got us out of a bad run in terms of results and set us up nicely for what's going to be a vital week.

"Obviously I was delighted to see us play so well and beat a good side like Wigan. But it's galling at the same time because that means we've won at Sunderland, Ipswich and Wigan this season, the three top teams in the League.

"It proves what we can do on our day, it's just disappointing that we haven't had more of those days so far this season.

"We looked more like a West Ham team against Wigan, playing the type of football our fans appreciate. We played some neat stuff at times and with the two centre-backs playing the ball out it set us up nicely to move forward."

Indeed, Pards was full of praise for his young central defensive pairing of Anton Ferdinand and Elliott Ward, who shackled one of the most potent Championship strike forces and showed tremendous character in the tense atmosphere of the JJB Stadium.

"I can't speak highly enough of Anton and Elliott," enthused Alan. "They played terrifically well, even though they were up against two of the best strikers at this level.

"They dealt with Nathan Ellington and Jason Roberts really well for most of the game and considering the atmosphere and pressure we play under its incredible that two 20 year olds have come into the team and done so well.

"It gives everyone in the squad a lift and their composure on the ball and ability to play it out from defence is a massive asset to the team."

Alan Pardew's decision to bring Jimmy Walker back in goal to replace Stephen Bywater was the most surprising of the day, but the Hammers boss felt the former Walsall stoppers experience would be vital to help his youthful defence.

"With two young centre-backs I thought Jimmy's experience would help us," explained Pards. "His calmness definitely helped our defence at Wigan and he made an excellent save from Ellington in the first-half." 
 
With the squad remaining together in the North West to prepare for Tuesday's encounter at Turf Moor, Pards must now get his team focused on the challenge of Burnley, who defeated Watford 3-1 at home on Saturday.

"The Burnley game is now really important," admitted Alan. "We proved against Wigan that we've got the ability to pick up enough points to get back into the Play-offs.

"It was a tremendous result, but getting something at Burnley is going to be just as important, and just as tough."