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."
Pards Salutes Battling Hammers
3rd April 2005