Mark Noble admitted West Ham United had been punished for making ‘individual mistakes’ in Saturday’s 4-1 Premier League defeat at Liverpool.
The Hammers were well in the game during a competitive first half, when they hit the frame of Loris Karius’ goal and worked the German goalkeeper on a number of occasions.
But from the moment Emre Can headed the Reds in front on the half-hour mark, West Ham were up against it, and the game went away from them as Liverpool added further goals from Mohamed Salah, Roberto Firmino and Sadio Mane, rendering Michail Antonio’s goal a consolation.
I think it’s a little bit harsh on us. It’s not really a 4-1 victory, but it is what it is
Mark Noble
“The first goal for us, the set play, was really disappointing,” said Noble. “In the first half, especially, we played really well, played well on the ball and had two or three really good chances. If we scored, it’s a different kettle of fish.
“The second half was tough for us. We conceded the second goal [early on], made a couple of individual mistakes, really, and they punish teams. They did it to Manchester City here and scored four goals and pounced on mistakes.
“We hit the bar and had another shot that their ‘keeper saved. If only we could have been a little more clinical when we went forward. We got in some really good positions.
“There is no point making up excuses. They were better than us today. They’ve got a fantastic front three with so much pace, power and skill. They deserved to win.
“To be fair, I think it’s a little bit harsh on us. It’s not really a 4-1 victory, but it is what it is. It’s tough to take.”
While Noble was disappointed with the result, he conceded that Liverpool are simply are better team, with greater resources, and played well on the day.
“If we’d got anything out of the game we’d have been buzzing. Don’t forget they are competing for Champions League football.
“The next three games for us are massive and it was key that we came through this game without picking up any injuries.
“We gave it our best. I don’t think you can say the lads chucked it in, because they never did that, but at the end of the day they were too good. That’s why they pay so much money for their players.”
West Ham now face three games against teams around them in the table, with a trip to Swansea City followed by home games with Burnley and Southampton in March.
“We’ve got pick ourselves up and go again next week. These type of games are a bonus. We’ve beaten Chelsea and drawn with Arsenal and picked up some fantastic points, but to come here away from home, I thought conceding four was a little bit harsh.
“These next three games are key for us.”
Finally, the captain thanked the Claret and Blue Army for paying tribute to Bobby Moore on the 25th anniversary of the late skipper’s death, with all 3,000 donning commemorative t-shirts provided by the Club.
“For us, he’s a fantastic part of our history and to have someone of his stature associated with our Football Club, we need to keep his name strong in remembrance.”