Sam substitutions have often been a mystery for a long time. For example taking of a striker for a striker when we are 1-0 down. However every once in a blue moon, Allardyce gets it spot on with his substitutions. For example when we won against Fulham 3-0, he put on Joe Cole, Carlton Cole and Ravel. The two Coles scored and Ravel brought the game to life. Or when we beat Chelsea at home last season, he brought on Diame who inspired the team to a 3-1 victory. Much the same applies to Tuesday nights victory over Norwich.
Sam brought on Diame, who was the game changer. At first I was skeptical, and am still not overly confident putting Diame on the wing. However after assisting and scoring, I was eating my hat. He cut in and provided a different outlet on the wing . However the additions of Borriello and Nocerino, helped sustain a balance. I also believe Borriello provided more up front than Cole did. We have to change our game when Borriello is playing however I believe his hold up play and passing is very good. Carlton is better for the more physical and backs against the walls performance.
Contrast to Sam’s excellent choice of subs, Chris Hughton’s sub’s were abysmal. Hughton took Redmond, Tettey and Hooper off, which I would argue were the most effective and causing the most damage. I was very impressed with Hooper, who had a great touch and pace. If you look at the game, Norwich were the better side, they just lacked cutting edge. Great to see West Ham winning without playing well for once, as well as getting a bit of luck.
Back to the point on Sam’s subs, every once in a while he does get it right, so I believe he deserves credit for that. For example, Andy on at Cardiff, Reid on at Villa. Another point just to add in to this mixed article you could say. Matty Taylor is playing in the holding midfielder role alongside Noble this year. Reminds me a lot of what Gary O’Neil did last year. A hard worker, who can produce something decent every so often. He is great for away games however sometimes lacks the final product. After having been left out for the start of the season, I believe he has been great ever since he broke in to our team again at Tottenham away in the Capital One Cup.