West Ham United U23s have been eliminated from the Premier League Cup after a long gruelling last 16 defeat to Newcastle United.
The young Hammers, who were looking to defend their crown that they lifted last season, fell short in extra-time on Saturday afternoon losing 3-2 at St James’ Park.
Early Chances
It was a bright start from the Irons. Dan Kemp was fouled inside the box by Liam Gibson and Ashley Fletcher subsequently scored from the penalty spot after just seven minutes.
There were few chances to follow in the first half, however Curtis Good was booked after a nasty challenge on Nathan Holland, with the former perhaps being lucky to stay on the field.
Newcastle pressure
Newcastle piled on the pressure after the interval, and were straight out of the blocks with Massadio Haidara almost equalising with an effort from close range.
As the clock hit the hour mark, the hosts were finally level thanks to a tap in from Luke Charman.
Back in Front
With fifteen minutes to go, Terry Westley’s team were back in front. A brilliant cross from Kyle Knoyle was converted by an even better header by captain Declan Rice to make it 2-1 and it looked like West Ham were going to hold on.
Unfortunately for the visitors, as they looked to run the clock down, Newcastle were level again in the 83rd minute.
An unbelievable finish from Sammy Ameobi from outside the box gave Hammers keeper Nathan Trott no chance of saving, but perhaps the defending should have been better to close him down prior to the effort.
Late Winner
The Magpies pushed for a late winner, and in the final minute of added time, West Ham almost nicked the win on the counter attack after Marcus Browne’s stinging shot cannoned off the inside of the post.
Extra time followed and Newcastle took the lead for the first time, with Ameobi getting his second of the afternoon in the 95th minute. Another phenomenal effort from outside the penalty area flew past Trott to the delight of the home supporters.
West Ham did all they could to make it 3-3. Jahmal Hector-Ingram came on as the last throw of the dice, but it just wasn’t meant to be.
