Steve's Shock

Steve Bywater admits the defeat by Cardiff on Tuesday evening was a "shock" - but insists that West Ham can bounce back on Saturday against QPR.

Looking at the 4-1 loss in Wales, he says:

"The lads are gutted; we conceded two early goals but we went in at half time thinking that if we could pull one back we would be back in the game.

"We knew we had to go for it but it didn't end up like that; they got another goal and that was it, really.

"They were catching us on the break and we didn't perform; they got good possession when they attacked, which they did well, and we were outnumbered when they did that.

"It is a shock to the system but hopefully that is the one spanking of the season because everyone gets one."

Cardiff had previously scored four goals in their eight home games of the season, but manager Lennie Lawrence had insisted for some time that his side were due to inflict a heavy defeat on opponents sooner or later.

West Ham were simply in the wrong place at the wrong time, and Steve adds:

"We were well and truly beaten - but we did create a lot of chances; to create so many away from home and not score, except for the penalty, is a shame.

"The lads gave 100% but days like that are hard - it is a terrible trip, and the lads are gutted for the fans, and not just themselves."

Trying to explain the difference in home results and those on the road, Steve says:

"I don't know what it is because for me personally there is no difference; it is the same pitch."

Now he is determined to ensure West Ham get back to winning ways at home to QPR on Saturday, and he adds:

"We owe them one; it goes without saying that we will be up for it but it was only three weeks ago that they beat us 1-0.

"Hopefully the fans will be behind us and not be on our backs despite the heavy defeat - it is a massive game now."