West Ham extended their winning streak to three consecutive matches in the Premier League, which sent the Hammers surging up the standings.
Manuel Pellegrini’s side endured a slow start to the season amongst a difficult schedule of fixtures but have emerged from the other end fighting with all their might, presenting themselves with a strong platform to build upon during the busy festive period that lies ahead.
One shining light from the recent fixtures has been the performances of Javier Hernandez, who has shown his worth in the final third by scoring three goals in the last three matches – including a well-taken effort against Crystal Palace.
The Mexican striker was alert to smash home from close range after an effort from a free-kick was saved, beating the offside trap and catching the Eagles’ defence sleeping to secure a goal that proved to be vital at the final whistle.
Fans took to social media to heap praise upon him and we have gathered some of their comments below.
Love the way the opposition try’s to get offside 😂😂😂 chicha is twice as fast to react than anyone in that box #KillerInstinct
— ⚒Matt⚒ Ⓜ️ (@1968MATTG) December 11, 2018
It’s a fantastic finish.
— Ryan Macdonald (@RyanMac67871446) December 11, 2018
the most potent player in the box. True definition of fox in the box
— Godwin Tagoe (@tagoe_godwin) December 11, 2018
That’s why you play him. Look how he’s the only one to take that gamble and follow in for a loose ball. Great player, natural finisher and eye for goal
— forbes (@ChampagneForbes) December 11, 2018
He was the only one who ran back, saw the chance and took it!
— Ellé (@BananaSpIatter) December 11, 2018
Chicha really is the only person to react after the kick is taken. Our defence needs to be as responsive as he is rather than ball watching which most players are doing here. A real fox in the box, he’s looking for scraps while most are wondering if the keeper will make a save.
— ZP Hammer (@zphammer) December 11, 2018
Simple football really – take the free kick to the keeper’s right and have your goal poacher follow it up! Marvellous
— Richard Hemstedt (@HammerHemel) December 11, 2018
It’s overshadowed by the other two goals but that’s a cracking finish
— Phteven Barrows (@StephenBarrows) December 11, 2018
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