Zola - This can't go on

West Ham chief standing firm over vision for team

Last updated: 20th December 2008

Zola - This can't go on

Zola: Home defeat

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West Ham United manager Gianfranco Zola is certain his side's football will soon be rewarded, despite losing against Aston Villa on Saturday.

Lucas Neill's own goal condemned the Hammers to a ninth defeat of the season, with the club just a point above the relegation places.

Zola rued the manner of Villa's winning goal while he praised his players for matching their opponents for much of the game.

"It's very hard," he said. "It's difficult to leave the pitch with nothing when you play like that.

"We had so many chances against a team fourth in the table. We are one place away from the relegation zone but that didn't show on the pitch.

"I'm upset and frustrated for my players because they deserve more. It won't carry on like this. That would be impossible.

"I'm not going to give up on this, we have to be strong and make our own luck. If we play like that it will not go on forever."