For James Ward-Prowse and Tomáš Souček, West Ham United’s win over Nottingham Forest came down to perseverance.
The Hammers’ 3-2 victory over Forest at London Stadium was far from straightforward, although Lucas Paquetá’s well-taken strike on three minutes had hinted it could be when the hosts took the lead.
Forest bit back, levelling thanks to Taiwo Awoniyi and going ahead through Anthony Elanga’s sweeping finish, but still the Irons did not stop in their pursuit to get back into the game.
Jarrod Bowen restored parity with his header, from a Ward-Prowse corner, while Souček flung himself at ball after ball, striking the woodwork.
But still, both drove on, desperate to find the fifth goal in a London Stadium thriller. Eventually it came, as Ward-Prowse’s tenth assist of the season in all competitions was turned home by the industrious Souček.
Speaking after the game, both were full of praise for the team’s collective desire.
Tomáš, how does that result feel?
Tomáš Souček: “It feels like a really big win. The game was turning around all the time but we kept pushing and we got the win, which is the most important thing. We showed great spirit.”
Was today’s result all about perseverance?
James Ward-Prowse: “We knew we’d get there; we just had to keep going. Forest are doing well and we knew it would be a difficult test. It was a great start but they got back into the game, and we didn’t make it easy for ourselves.
“But I think it says a lot about the group that we were able to grind this result out in the way we did.”
How pleased with your goal are you, Tomáš?
TS: “I was delighted. We’ve had a difficult couple of weeks but we got a big win in Europe on Thursday and then won today as well. We can go into the international break with a bit of relief and enjoy the time.
“These three points were so important and, for me to score that goal, I was delighted.”
How much easier is it to score when Ward-Prowse is playing the balls in?
TS: “He’s perfect from set-pieces with his deliveries. All the time, he plays amazing balls. I remember when he joined, on his first day was us, and everyone was excited for his set-pieces. Everyone was saying ‘come on James'.
“It’s great for us because we have big lads in the box and it’s perfect when we get great service. Thanks James!”
How important was this win?
JWP: “It’s very important. I think it’s about consistency. We had a very good start to the season but we’ve not quite continued that consistency. But the last two games have been a big step towards doing that.
“The international break now is a good chance for us to work on a few bits and come back even stronger.”
