A late penalty denied West Ham three points as they drew 2-2 with Sheffield United at Bramall Lane on Sunday.
Maxwel Cornet’s netted his first goal for the club and a second-half James Ward-Prowse penalty weren’t enough to help West Ham United earn the three points away at Sheffield United.
It was a frustrating afternoon in Yorkshire as the Hammers dropped two points in their pursuit of a place in the top six. David Moyes’ side led twice but let the lead slip on both occasions, travelling back to East London frustrated.
Ivory Coast international Cornet made it 1-0 close to the half-hour mark, but Blades league debutant Ben Brereton Díaz ensured the scores were level at half-time with a 44th-minute strike.
Ward-Prowse took his opportunity for his fourth of the season from 12 yards before Oli McBurnie scored a 103rd-minute penalty.
The performances of the officials however left Moyes angered, with the Scot claiming that the level of officiating has plunged so low that no one knows what referees are “going to do” after chaotic scenes in stoppage time at Bramall Lane.
West Ham’s manager was unhappy at the referee, Michael Salisbury, awarding a late penalty to Sheffield United, scored by Oli McBurnie in the 103rd-minute penalty, before then refusing to give Jarrod Bowen one at the other end 60 seconds later.
Game management and poor control
It was an open game at Bramall Lane with both sides having plenty of opportunities to score with a high-scoring game no surprise.
Having exited the FA Cup earlier in the week to Bristol City, it will leave a sour taste in the mouth of Moyes and supporters.
But, with the lack of available attackers despite the return of Bowen, it should serve as a reminder of the need for reinforcements for the club.
Alphonse Areola was forced off with injury in this game coupled with Vladimir Coufal earning a red card meaning depth will further be tested going into the next games.
