West Ham remain out of the relegation zone following Tottenham’s defeat to Sunderland in Roberto De Zerbi’s first game in charge.
Hammers fans were watching closely as the other clubs involved in the Premier League relegation scrap battled for points — and overall, it’s been a favourable set of results.
Forest draw keeps things tight
The action began at the City Ground, where Murillo’s own goal handed Aston Villa the lead.
Nico Williams equalised with a long-range effort just before half-time, and the game finished level — a result that moves Nottingham Forest one point above West Ham.
Spurs slip up at the Stadium of Light
Most eyes, though, were on Tottenham’s trip to Sunderland.
The hosts started the brighter, and the first major incident saw a penalty awarded against them — only for VAR to overturn it, correctly, after Alderete made contact with the ball.
It was a scrappy first half, with several bookings. Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven were both cautioned early after fouls on Brian Brobbey, who caused problems throughout. Pedro Porro also went into the book, while Udogie was fortunate to avoid the same fate after a series of heavy challenges.
Position Club Played Goal Difference Points 15 Leeds United 31 -11 33 16 Nottingham Forest 32 -12 33 17 West Ham United 32 -17 32 18 Tottenham Hotspur 32 -11 30
Deflection decides low-quality contest
The second half brought a key moment.
Richarlison fired tamely at Roefs, and less than a minute later, Sunderland made Spurs pay. Mukiele cut inside from the right, and his effort took a deflection off Van de Ven to make it 1-0.
It was a game full of effort but lacking quality, with both sides struggling in the final third.
Pressure remains on rivals
De Zerbi may take positives from the commitment shown, but the defensive issues remain.
The defeat leaves Tottenham in the bottom three, having played the same number of games as West Ham and Nottingham Forest.
All eyes now on Leeds