James Collins raves about Craig Dawson for his goal in West Ham v Newcastle
James Collins has praised Craig Dawson after he scored the opening goals for West Ham against Newcastle United on Saturday (19 February) in the Premier League.
The Hammers were sluggish throughout the first half but they look the lead, thanks to yet another smart set-piece work.
Collins has suggested that it’s been a “clever run” for the veteran defender, but has criticised the Newcastle high-line defence.
Dawson said on BBC Radio 5 Live: “Newcastle’s defensive line looked far too high. It’s a clever run from Craig Dawson, who snuck in and got a free header.
“Why not start in a deeper position? I don’t get their fascination with keeping this high line.”
Poor first half
It was a poor challenge on Michail Antonio that earned West Ham a freekick outside the box.
It still required proper execution, and Aaron Cresswell did it in some style.
The left-back is enjoying a superb campaign for the Hammers, and he has registered seven assists in 25 games this season for the club.
The most he has managed at West Ham is eight, and he is likely to break that record this season.
Dawson also made a smart run and took the goal nicely. However, the Hammers did concede in the first half, scored by Joe Willock.
Overall, it’s been a shocking performance from the Hammers. They have been pretty ordinary since November, and one can feel that something is wrong with the team.
It’s been a regular feature for them. They start the game slowly and allow the opposition to come back into the game.
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