West Ham boss Gianfranco Zola insists he was encouraged by his side's performance against Liverpool.
Hammers boss draws positives from defeat
West Ham boss Gianfranco Zola insists he was encouraged by his side's performance despite falling to a 3-2 defeat against Liverpool.
A pulsating affair at Upton Park was decided in the second period when Fernando Torres rose highest to head home a dramatic winner fifteen minutes from time.
West Ham more than played their part in what was one of the best games of the season so far and Zola was quick to draw on the positives.
"Today was very encouraging," said Zola. "We were unfortunate not to pick up any points. But we will get better and it won't be long."
One of the successes for Zola, along with new-boy Alessandro Diamanti, was the performance of winger Zavon Hines.
Exciting prospect
He had Liverpool's rearguard struggling all afternoon and he could have put the home side in front in the opening minutes.
"Zavon has done very well in the last week but today was even better against a difficult team," said Zola. "The boy is taking his chances very well. He helped the team defensively and he is establishing himself, which is down to his work and attitude.
"You need to have players like him. I am hoping a few others will do the same in the next few weeks. He is playing with a brave attitude and making an impact."
Controversy
Diamanti scored West Ham's first-half equaliser from the spot, but the Italian appeared to touch the ball twice when he slipped as he took the penalty.
"It was decided before the game that Diamanti would take any penalties," added Zola.
"His penalty was very scary. I think he slid as he took it, but he said that he meant to do it. But he had a good game and worked a lot for the team."
