West Ham 1, Everton 3: Saha looking like a bigger bargain

Nov 8 2008 By Dominic King at Upton Park

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LOUIS SAHA was the hero of the hour as Everton staged a spectacular comeback against West Ham United to register their third consecutive victory.

Having trailed with only seven minutes remaining to a goal from Jake Collison midway through the second period, Joleon Lescott grabbed an equaliser before Saha scored twice in the space of 90 seconds.

The Blues were not at their best by any means but their perseverance was rewarded with a stunning late show and their autumnal renaissance continues apace - they have taken 10 points from the last 12 available and are in seventh position on their own.

With both Steven Pienaar (knee) and Ayegbeni Yakubu (heel) failing to travel to the capital, added to Marouane Fellaini’s suspension, Moyes was forced into making three changes from the side that had beaten Fulham.

So that the manager turning to youth, with Jack Rodwell taking over from Fellaini in midfield, Victor Anichebe replacing the South African Pienaar and last weekend’s hero Louis Saha starting up front.

And the Frenchman almost vindicated Moyes’ decision during Everton’s first attack when the ball fell to him on the edge of the area but his dipping volley flashed just wide of Robert Green’s far post.

It should have been the moment when Everton grasped hold of the initiative and took chance to set the tempo at which they wished to play but that was not the case, as West Ham came roaring back.

Scott Parker had their best chance - a drive which fizzed past Tim Howard but hit the advertising hoardings rather than the back of the net - while Craig Bellamy’s searing pace caused problems, particularly for Joseph Yobo.