Zaha on target as claptrap takes a back seat
Crystal Palace 1 West Ham 1 Tony Stenson
WILFRIED ZAHA applauded himself last night rather than a referee – although he had every right to boo the man in the middle.
Palace’s talismanic winger grabbed a 76th-minute equaliser to continue Palace’s fight for survival.
Zaha faces the FA beaks this week to appeal against a second match ban for being sent off for clapping referee Andre Marriner during the game against Southampton.
He had already been suspended for one match and was allowed to play yesterday while his appeal against another game was being heard.
After being at the wrong end of a decision against Liverpool on Monday, West Ham can thank their lucky stars life evened out.
Referee Craig Pawson awarded them a highly contentious penalty in the 28th minute, which Mark Noble smashed home.
Palace manager Roy Hodgson said: “I would have been deeply disappointed if we had lost this game, but even if we had I would have been pleased how we played. This gives me so much confidence for the rest of the season. I feel now we can start looking at those above us rather than below if we carry on like this.” Hammers boss Manuel Pellegrini said: “Crystal Palace are not an easy team. They beat Manchester City in their own stadium. I am happy with this result. We always want to win, but, in this case, a draw was a fair result.”