VIEW FROM THE STANDS: Repeat display will do nicely

Dec 15 2007

DAVID MOYES was correct on Wednesday – we haven’t won anything of significance yet.

So after all the euphoria of Wednesday night’s Carling Cup victory over the Hammers, today is what really counts as we aim to cement our status back in the top six of the Premier League.

Sure a semi-final feels rather good, but everyone knows the real money and satisfaction lies in competing with the big-spenders every year, and the only way to do that is to keep pressing and delivering in games like today.

West Ham showed plenty of dogged determination on Wednesday, but ultimately our extra flair in midfield – and Danny Gabbidon’s horror-show defending proved the difference.

With the likes of Tommy Gravesen, James McFadden, Andrew Johnson and a whole host of other players champing at the bit to get a starting role it is up to the likes of Steven Pienaar and Leon Osman to maintain their current good form.

With the daunting trip to Old Trafford next up, today’s clash against the Hammers is a must-win match to pile the pressure on the likes of Pompey and City.