Nuno stays defiant as West Ham grind out crucial point at Palace

Nuno stays defiant as West Ham grind out crucial point at Palace

Nuno Espirito Santo has remained upbeat about West Ham United's survival chances after his side battled to a hard-earned 0-0 draw in the Premier League against Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park on Monday.

The result lifted the Hammers two points clear of the relegation zone with five matches remaining, but Nuno made it clear the fight was far from over.

"Every day is important and it is going to be a fight until the end," he said. "I think we're proving that we don't give up. We are committed. Even though it was not the perfect game, we fought."

West Ham had to withstand pressure, particularly in the first half. Brennan Johnson missed a free header for Palace, while Dean Henderson produced a sharp save to deny Konstantinos Mavropanos from close range.

Nuno praised his side's resilience: "We were organised, committed, had team spirit - the basics needed to keep fighting. The players are aware and giving everything, so I am positive."

He also acknowledged Palace's defensive strength, adding: "They defended very well. It was hard to find gaps, and their goalkeeper made an incredible save, so we have to credit them."

For Palace, manager Oliver Glasner was pleased with his team's focus despite their recent European success. The Eagles had reached the semi-finals of the UEFA Conference League but showed no signs of distraction.

"Maybe people expected us to be fatigued or not focused," Glasner said. "But the players gave the right answer. They showed they are committed and willing to work hard until the end."

Palace thought they had found a late winner through Ismaila Sarr, only for the goal to be ruled out for handball by Jean-Philippe Mateta in the build-up.

In the end, West Ham settled for a valuable point in their bid for survival, while Palace remained comfortably mid-table with European ambitions still alive.

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