James Collins criticises Craig Dawson in first-half West Ham display v Newcastle
James Collins has insisted that West Ham have been sloppy in the first half against Newcastle, and has criticised Craig Dawson for a poor defensive moment.
Both teams created some good chances but it was the visitors who made a bright start. He has criticised the defender, saying he was lucky. However, he had the last smile as he netted the opening goal for the home side.
The Hammers hardly managed to take the ball in the opposition third in the opening stages, but they still managed to take the lead.
Collins said on BBC Radio: “That wasn’t a great challenge at all from Craig Dawson. He was lucky there was a foul given just beforehand, otherwise, he would have been in trouble.
“Newcastle look like the team in fifth place at the minute. They’re so comfortable in possession.”
Spot on
West Ham have been very sloppy in the first half.
They hardly created enough clear-cut openings, and Newcastle so comfortable in possession. But, they managed to get the goal which could prove to be crucial.
The Magpies are heading into this game on the back of three consecutive wins and they are playing with full confidence.
On the other hand, West Ham are yet to get into the groove, although the fans are trying their best to create a very good atmosphere.
This has been a recurrent theme for the Hammers in recent games, mainly at home, although it was the Irons who went a goal to the good.
They are starting the game slowly and are looking for individual brilliance to rescue them. On this occasion, it was Aaron Cresswell’s free-kick which was nicely turned in by Dawson.
As for the defending, Dawson was really clumsy with his landing but there was no malicious intent from him.
West Ham must pass the ball quickly and get Jarrod Bowen and Michail Antonio into the game. But it’s a big advantage going into the break.
Declan Rice has been pretty quiet in the first half as well.
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