West Ham Development Squad midfielder Kieran Bywater thinks that tonight’s match against Wolverhampton Wanderers will carry extra spice after a last minute defeat to the Midlands side in February left the Hammers despondent.
The sides meet in the Barclays Under-21 Premier League tonight, and Bywater has been reflecting on the previous encounter.
He told West Ham TV: "I think that disappointment does [spur us on]...No one likes losing, especially the way we did at Wolves last time."
"A few decisions went against us and a few lapses of concentration cost us the game in the end. I think we were unlucky in some ways. After a good start in the game we conceded two late goals, but hopefully we can turn that around on Friday with a good performance and a good result.”
He also recognises the importance of a win in terms of the league and hopes that good performances can be turned into three points.
The last three home fixtures for the U21s have been played at Upton Park, but tonight sees the Hammers return to Rush Green, and Bywater hopes this will benefit him and his team mates.
He said: "I think a lot of the lads are confident there. It's a tough place to go for opposition sides when they come down. It's a different environment to what a lot of players are used to and hopefully we can use that to our advantage."
At just 17, Bywater is one of the youngest players in the side, but is already becoming a key man in midfield, and has been drafted in as a defender on occasions. After nine appearances this season, Bywater is enjoying his time with the squad.
"It's been a good experience playing with the older players and training with them day in, day out, can only be good for my development. So it's all good for me really."
"I'm happy to play anywhere as long as I'm playing. I'm enjoying my football and just trying to put in good performances for the team. If I'm needed to provide cover in games, as a younger player it's all good experience for me to be able to play in a number of different positions and it should help my selection prospects.”
As always, season ticket holders can attend tonight’s match at Rush Green for free. Adult tickets are £3 and Under 16’s are just £1. Kick off is 7pm. If you’re in the area, go and support the lads!
By Lucy Woolford
Youth and Development Squad reporter
@lucy_whufc
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