The doom and gloom that had engulfed West Ham United has lifted after Saturday’s superb win at Chelsea.
West Ham had not won for eight games and two long months ahead of a daunting trip to Stamford Bridge.
But a complete team performance and Aaron Cresswell’s superb goal secured the victory.
Several players were central to the win.
Rice and co key to brilliant win
David Martin’s calm head in goal. Michail Antonio’s power, pace, mobility and workrate up front.
But just as pivotal was former Chelsea academy product turned West Ham hero Declan Rice.
The England midfielder ran the show in the middle of the park. Rice looked back to his best and was not fazed in the second half when Willian and N’Golo Kante joined the battle.
After the toughest period of his young career of late for club and country, Rice was understandably delighted with the win over his old side.
Rio applauds Dec’s honest message
Speaking in a brilliantly honest video on West Ham’s official Twitter feed after the game, Rice said: “All I want to say is, I’m sorry to all the West Ham fans that we give heart attacks to every week.
“But today, that’s probably one of the best days of my life.”
And the message met with the approval of former Hammers hero Rio Ferdinand.
From one fans’ favourite to another
Like Rice, Rio was a huge fans’ favourite when he emerged from the Academy of Football.
And he replied to the post with applause to signify his appreciation.
A starring role in a huge win over your old club and fierce London rivals. Then praise from a West Ham legend.
What a day indeed for Declan.
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