FULL TIME: Kilbane header condemns West Ham to defeat (From East London and West Essex Guardian Series)

FULL TIME: Kilbane header condemns West Ham to defeat

5:00pm Saturday 2nd February 2008 in West Ham By Guardian-series

Wigan 1
West Ham 0
(Barclays Premier League)

KEVIN Kilbane's goal on the stroke of half time condemned West Ham to a first-ever defeat at the JJB Stadium this afternoon.

The Latics' Republic of Ireland full back stole in behind Freddie Ljungberg before sending Ryan Taylor's deep free kick looping over Hammers keeper Robert Green.

West Ham failed to follow up their showing performance in midweek against Liverpool, and struggled throughout on the dreadful JJB pitch.

Chances for the visitor's also came at a premium.

Craig Bellamy - who came on as a 68th minute substitute for his first appearance since October - squandered the best chance, blasting high and wide when well placed.

Wigan looked the most likely to score again late on, twice coming close to extending their lead.

Antonio Valencia's well-struck shot cannoned off both posts, while Marcus Bent flicked his shot over the crossbar when one-on-one with the Green.

West Ham will be looking for a much-improved performance at home to Birmingham next Saturday.

West Ham: Green, Neill, McCartney, Upson, Ferdinand, Ljungberg, Mullins, Noble (Bowyer 73), Etherington (Solano 48), Cole (Bellamy 68), Ashton. Unused subs: Spector, Wright.