WHZ View: Three things to look our for as West Ham host Doncaster
West Ham play host to Doncaster Rovers in the FA Cup fourth-round tie today at the London Stadium.
It’s a mouthwatering clash between two sides that are yet to lose in 2021. Donny are currently fourth in League One having claimed victory in seven of their last eight games.
We haven’t met our opponents since the Championship in 2012, resulting in a 1-1 draw at Upton Park.
First-team coach Kevin Nolan got our goal that day. The visitor’s goalscorer James Coppengier is still a registered member of their squad having made over 500 appearances.
West Ham Zone have picked out three things to keep an eye on in today’s clash.
- Set-pieces could prove crucial
One of the reasons for our success this season has been our ability to capitalise on our set plays. The Hammers have scored from corners against Leeds, Villa, Brighton and most recently Stockport County this season.
At times we’re unable to break sides down, but our set-pieces have been effective. This may be the case today as we’ll likely see more of the ball than our visitors.
2. The London Stadium belongs to Antonio
Probably a more obvious one, but you simply can’t ignore the impact Michail Antonio has on this West Ham side.
The Englishman made it five goals for the season over the past week, scoring the winners at home to Burnley and West Brom in back-to-back man-of-the-match performances. Scarily, he’s managed to do this whilst trying to gain match fitness.
Those goals took our number 30 to 15 at the London Stadium, making him the top goalscorer at our new ground. With Mipo Odubecko sidelined, he’ll look to continue his run this afternoon as the only fit recognised striker at the club.
3. Donnys dangermen
As previously stated, today’s visitors are not to be taken lightly. Darren Moore’s Doncaster Rovers are flying in League One, and there are two men in particular to keep an eye on.
Number nine Fejiri Okenabirhie has eight goals in all competitions this season, whilst full-back Reece James has notched five goals and three assists.
James assisted the winner in Donny’s 1-0 win against Blackburn in the third round.
The pair will be very keen to make an impression against a Hammers back four which is expected to have changes.
In other West Ham news, David Moyes looks set to be offered a new deal at the end of the season.