Sam Byram says the Hammers should have taken something from Saturday's game
Saturday’s 1-0 defeat at Southampton was a frustrating affair for Sam Byram and his West Ham United teammates.
Byram replaced the injured James Tomkins for the final half hour at St Mary’s as the Hammers chased an equaliser, but their efforts were to come up short as the ten-man Saints held on.
Maya Yoshida’s early goal settled the contest, but Byram felt West Ham should have emerged with something to show – if only they had able to find their usual quality in the final third.
“We were massively on top in the last half-hour and they were defending with their lives,” he said.
“It was one of those where they had everyone behind the ball and we just couldn’t put it in the net.
“We had a lot of space out wide and the plan was to get it in the box to big Andy. Maybe the quality could have been better and it’s just frustrating that we couldn’t get the goal we needed.”
Byram might not have expected to be involved in first team affairs so soon after his move from Leeds United, but he was thrilled to play his part and cannot wait to continue to show what he can do.
He added: “On a personal note it was good to get on the pitch. I’m always looking to do my best for the team, but the bigger picture is that we missed out on the three points, so we went home frustrated.
“I’m settling in really well. Everyone’s been dead welcoming. It’s frustrating that I can’t be involved on Tuesday [as I am cup-tied], but it’ll give me a good week to get some more fitness in and I’ve really enjoyed it since I’ve joined."
Byram replaced the injured James Tomkins for the final half hour at St Mary’s as the Hammers chased an equaliser, but their efforts were to come up short as the ten-man Saints held on.
Maya Yoshida’s early goal settled the contest, but Byram felt West Ham should have emerged with something to show – if only they had able to find their usual quality in the final third.
“We were massively on top in the last half-hour and they were defending with their lives,” he said.
“It was one of those where they had everyone behind the ball and we just couldn’t put it in the net.
“We had a lot of space out wide and the plan was to get it in the box to big Andy. Maybe the quality could have been better and it’s just frustrating that we couldn’t get the goal we needed.”
Byram might not have expected to be involved in first team affairs so soon after his move from Leeds United, but he was thrilled to play his part and cannot wait to continue to show what he can do.
He added: “On a personal note it was good to get on the pitch. I’m always looking to do my best for the team, but the bigger picture is that we missed out on the three points, so we went home frustrated.
“I’m settling in really well. Everyone’s been dead welcoming. It’s frustrating that I can’t be involved on Tuesday [as I am cup-tied], but it’ll give me a good week to get some more fitness in and I’ve really enjoyed it since I’ve joined."