Hammers fall agonisingly short

West Ham United's players and fans were plunged into despair when the joy of a crucial victory was snatched away in the dying seconds against Manchester United.

Tomas Soucek's goal looked to have put them level on points with Nottingham Forest, increasing the pressure on Sean Dyche's side before their vital meeting with fellow strugglers Wolverhampton Wanderers on Wednesday.

Instead, after a display that carried all the hallmarks of their recent improvement, they had to settle for a point that will feel like a bitter disappointment.

So much of West Ham's performance will have delighted Nuno Espirito Santo, with the evidence here suggesting that if this standard is maintained, they can reel in those ahead of them in the fight to avoid the drop.

Crysencio Summerville was once again a real threat, while Soucek's goal was his trademark, stealing into the area to apply a subtle finish to Jarrod Bowen's cross.

After that, West Ham were organised and resilient while continuing to pose a threat on the break, even though Manchester United threatened.

There was much to admire - but there is no escaping the fact that allowing two points to slip through their fingers so late on will be a real source of regret.