Bobby's Sharp Start



BOBBY Zamora was at his lively best to score West Ham United's equaliser in the 1-1 draw against ADO Den Haag.

The Hammers striker returned after missing the 1-0 win over Crystal Palace with tendonitis to put in a fine display, which he capped with an 80th minute strike to protect West Ham's unbeaten run during this pre-season campaign.

The 24-year-old has now scored four goals during the Premier League build-up and now can't wait for the big kick-off against Blackburn Rovers on August 13th.

"Everyone's buzzing about the new season," he said, "and the closer it gets the more everyone looks forward to it. Pre-season has been really positive, and although the results aren't hugely important, it's good to have gone through unbeaten so far.

"The game in Holland was really competitive, especially in the second-half when they came into the game a bit more. It was a tough work-out, but that's what we're looking for at this stage because we know that's exactly what we're going to get against Blackburn.

"The squad is looking strong, the gaffer has brought in some new players who have fitted in really well and now we're just going to be working over the next week or so to make sure we're exactly right and on our game for Blackburn."

With a game at Upton Park to kick-off Hammers Premier League return, Bobby believes that a good start is going to essential for Alan Pardew's squad.

"The first five or so games are going to be important," agreed the former Tottenham Hotspur and Brighton hitman. "We want to make sure we get some points in the bag early so that we're not playing catch up.

"We need to get off to a good start, and that means we have to prepare right over the next week and make sure we're ready for the first match.

"The fact that it's a home game will make it even more of a big occasion for the Club. Upton Park will be full, the atmosphere will be fantastic and it's up to the players to respond with a performance of Premiership quality.

"It's a very tough League and every game is going to be a big challenge. But the mood and spirit in the squad is great and we're going into the season with a lot of confidence after the way we finished last season.

"Everyone around the Club is on the up at the moment and that can only help our performances on the pitch."