Hammers beat Derby

Last updated : 30 November 2011 By Plymouth_hammer

A 3-1 victory over Derby County might not be something to write home about but the impressive nature of the performance and the continued improvement in Sam Allardyce’s squad certainly is.

The Hammers started the game poorly and lost striker Sam Baldock to injury in the 22nd minute.  They then fell behind in the 34th minute after some sloppy play whilst on the attack. 

A vital equalising goal from Carlton Cole just on the stroke of half-time meant the Hammers went in with a bit of confidence.

West Ham started the second half well and it felt only a matter of time before they took the lead.

The duly did that in the 64th minute courtesy of a thunderbolt volley from outside the box by Captain Kevin Nolan.

Mark Noble then converted a 74th minute penalty to seal all three points.