Wenger woe as Hammers fight back
ARSENAL boss Arsene Wenger bemoaned poor refereeing decisions as his side let a two-goal lead slip in a thrilling London derby with West Ham.
Goals from Robin van Persie and William Gallas sent the Gunners on their way before a strike from Carlton Cole and an Alessandro Diamanti penalty earned the Hammers a much-needed point.
But frustrated Wenger felt aggrieved with two key decisions – to award West Ham a free-kick that led to their first goal and the spot kick which brought them level.
“It is disappointing because we had a good game and get away with the minimum. I believe we were a bit unlucky today with decisions and in their kind of circumstances West Ham did fight for their life and made it very difficult,” he said.
“We had plenty of opportunities in the second half and in the end when the other team comes back to 2-1 and any little decision goes against you, you can pay for it.”
Although West Ham remain second from bottom, manager Gianfranco Zola was delighted with his team’s fightback, hailing their determination.
“I said in the changing room at half-time I saw they were willing to react and that was the difference really,” he said. “I’m pleased and proud for them.”
A Robert Green error handed Van Persie an easy opener – the keeper’s collision with team-mate James Tomkins allowing the Dutchman to tap in. Van Persie then turned provider as Gallas powered in a header from his corner to double their lead.
But the introduction of Diamanti sparked West Ham into life and it wasn’t long before Cole pulled one back after keeper Vito Mannone could only parry the Italian’s free-kick.
Alex Song then upended Cole and Diamanti put the spot kick away. And the Hammers held on despite losing skipper Scott Parker to two yellow cards with five minutes remaining.