Here was a chance to look at 2 fantasy premier league teams that you wouldnt expect to get too much TV time.
Norwich with Holt and Jackson up front lined up in a 4-4-2. Pilkington was the notable absentee and cheapie defender Barnett started again ahead of Turner and looks to have cemented his spot.
West ham lined up in 4-3-3 (no need for a midfield when the most common pass was from the back 4 to Carlton Cole who started in Carrolls absence with injury. Cheapie defender McCartney didnt make it and OBrien started. Reid kept his place instead of Tomkins. Noble, Nolan and Diame were in the midfield 3 with Vaz Te, Cole and Taylor up front. Jarvis only made the bench.
It was a contrast in styles with Norwich pushing West Ham high up the pitch forcing long balls from West Ham. Forcing? They would have done it anyway. Whereas Carroll was unplayable against Fulham, Cole struggled against Barnett and Bassong and Norwich in the first half had the best chances.
Attacking wise for West ham there really is no alternative to Nolan who is always in the box. Norwich aren’t as obvious to pick attacking wise. Jackson plays on the shoulder of the last defender whereas Holt is the focal point. both had chances. the midfield’s main threat comes from Snodgrass who’s final ball wasn’t up to it.
It was no surprise when Cole came off or Taylor really as Jarvis will hold that position I guess for the season.
The 2nd half petered out and west ham probably had the best of it although cheapie striker loanee Harry Kane should have won it.
So in summary West Ham and Norwich both gave credance to their clean sheet credentials in this 0-0 draw. No clarity on who you would put in attack for Norwich but Nolan really is the one and only you would trust attack wise for West Ham
