Premier League Preview Tottenham at West Ham London Derby
By Aaron Coe
The London derby between West Ham and Tottenham Hotspur pits two teams that have experienced very different journeys this season. Tottenham started well and have struggled since. West Ham stumbled out the blocks, but have found form following that slow start. With both London rivals thinking about finishing top four and Spurs looking for a little revenge from a difficult draw earlier this season, expect an open, high scoring match.
Recent Form Favors the Hammers
If not for the start of the season, West Ham would be challenging Manchester City for the title. West Ham had 8 points after 7 matches this season and some were wondering if David Moyes was the right man for the job. However, in 17 matches since, West Ham have earned 34 points – an awesome 2 per match – which have propelled them into the conversation for the top four.
In those 17 matches, West Ham have won 10, drawn four, and lost only three. The more recent form is still at that level. In their last five league matches Hammers have won three drawing one, and losing one, for 10 points in five matches – exactly two per match.
Tottenham have been struggling for consistency
Tottenham have struggled to find consistent form after a strong start. Spurs had 25 points from their first 12 matches, just over that 2 point per match pace that West Ham have been on. However, over the last 11 matches, Spurs have taken only 11 points. That is even worse that Hammers’ 8 points from 7 matches.
We know Spurs have struggled in the league lately, with only three wins against four defeats in all of 2021. However, in a match where it pits two teams that frankly do not like each other, fighting for elusive European places in the same city, form means little.