Sam Allardyce praised West Ham’s defensive mentality following Tuesday’s 2-0 home victory ober Norwich City.
The Hammers have kept four clean sheets in a row, which has seen the club rise up the table, following some superb results.
And Allardyce praised West Ham’s defensive stature following the win.
“To keep clean sheets in 50% of our games is the sort of record you normally get when you are going to finish in the top six,” said Allardyce.
“We had 11 clean sheets last year and finished 10th and we’ve got 13 now.”
Late goals from James Collins and Mohamed Diame helped West Ham pick up their third successive 2-0 victory, but the Londoners were made to work hard for their victory by the Canaries.
Goalkeeper Adrian made fine saves from Gary Hooper, Robert Snodgrass and Alex Tettey to keep his side in the contest and ultimately help move them four points clear of the relegation zone.
The Spanish goalkeeper has been in fine form ever since replacing veteran Jussi Jaaskelainen as the clubs numver 1 choice.
“There was nothing between the teams today apart from the fact we were the ones who took our chances when they came our way,” said Allardyce.
“Our goalkeeper made some outstanding saves when needed to keep it at 0-0 and our patience paid off.
“Three wins on the trot is a brilliant ask from the players and a brilliant response to what we wanted to do and what we knew we were capable of.”
Allardyce also stated that he will be taking his players on a warm weather break, as a reward for their fine form.
“We’re going to go away for some warm-weather training, which is important at this stage of the season,” said the former Bolton, Newcastle and Blackburn manager.
“Players feel good with a bit of sunshine on their backs and they can get their minds rested and become physically rested.
“I’ve been doing it for the last 13-14 years now and I know by the data I have collected over that time how important it is to get these players away.
“That’s why we’ve been fighting for many years for us to have a break like the rest of Europe.
“I always religiously fit one in because it’s the right thing to do irrespective of where you are in the league and what you are doing in terms of form.”
By Ben Reardon
@BenReardon1
