After West ham’s good start to the Premier League campaign, they begin this season’s FA Cup journey against National League side Stockport County on Monday night.
The FA Cup is England’s oldest competition and is famous in this country for delivering huge upsets. While West Ham’s FA Cup success has been limited over the last few decades, fans still expect the team to perform at a good standard each year.
Last season’s FA Cup run was halted in the fourth round after West Ham lost 1-0 to West Brom. The Hammer’s have now only reached one FA cup quarter-final in the last 10 years and are still searching for their first triumph in the competition since 1980, courtesy of one Sir Trevor Brooking.
For many West Ham fans, domestic success has been an important part of the club’s history. But it seems more often than not, managers over the years have prioritised the team’s league position over any cup competition.
West Ham’s lack of cup success leaves fans with little hope that this could be their year. A short run in the Carabao Cup in September was cut short in the Round of 16 stage. Emphatic wins over Charlton and Hull City portrayed glimpses of hope – until West Ham found themselves up against an in-form Everton side and were well beaten, 4-1.
Yet there is always belief.
After West Ham’s bright start to the season, there is a glimmer of light for the Hammers. Under David Moyes, they have begun the campaign extremely well. Most recently seen, following a 1-0 win over Everton on Friday night. The team now sits 10th on 26 points, just three points off 4th placed Tottenham.
It seems that this season more than most, is a good chance to emerge as strong contenders for this year’s competition. Moyes has created a sense of togetherness within the squad, that can be utilised in the cup. New additions in Said Benrahma and Vladimir Coufal have impressed so far, as well Tomas Soucek – who is currently the club’s top scorer in the league.
You love to see it 😍 pic.twitter.com/eYlox1vzln
— West Ham United (@WestHam) January 1, 2021
Over the last couple of campaigns, West Ham have struggled with finding consistent form in the Premier League. Now that the squad is in a much better position, an FA Cup run is just what the club needs to propel itself forward in the right direction. David Moyes must focus on this competition as well as the league, if he wants to remove the ‘mid-table’ image that West Ham currently own.
Ever since West Ham’s big transition into the London Stadium, fans were promised that the team would be competing against the top Premier League clubs for European football. And what better way to make a statement than to go and win the famous FA Cup trophy.
Not to mention Europa League qualification for next season.
