James Ward-Prowse has acknowledged that West Ham’s performance fell short of expectations during their fixture at Sheffield United but anticipates a strong response from the team.

The 2-2 draw at Bramall Lane proved to be a rather lackluster affair for neutrals, with the final 15 minutes overshadowed by VAR decisions and late drama. Both sides ended up with ten men, and Sheffield United secured a penalty in the 103rd minute, converted by Oli McBurnie. However, replays revealed that Areola had been fouled by McBurnie. In the dying moments of the match, West Ham were denied a second penalty following a clear foul on Bowen by Sheffield United’s Anel Ahmedhodzic, with VAR failing to intervene.

Midfielder Ward-Prowse, who has notched up a remarkable 10 assists in all competitions, added his 4th goal of the season from the penalty spot in the 79th minute. His goal seemed to secure three points for David Moyes’ side with 11 minutes remaining.

Reflecting on the match, Ward-Prowse remarked, “If we’re honest, we didn’t play at the levels we know we can, and we didn’t do enough to win the game. We’re in the top six and trying to push towards the top of the table, so we’re disappointed with our overall performance.” He also noted, “At times we kept possession well and we created chances, but we lacked a bit of control, and at times it turned into a bit of a basketball match. It was a bit end-to-end, and we didn’t stamp our authority or show enough swagger with the ball.”

Addressing the eventful conclusion to the game, Ward-Prowse commented, “It was a crazy few minutes, but we know that’s the sort of thing that can happen in the Premier League. We all know we can do better, and now it’s up to us to respond in the right way on the training pitch, and then ultimately back at home against Bournemouth.”