Half-Time Report: Kevin Nolan puts West Ham United in front

West Ham United lead Newcastle United at half-time thanks to a goal from former Magpie Kevin Nolan.

© PA Photos

The first chance of the afternoon fell to the visitors when Matt Jarvis was played in by Mark Noble, only to fire high and wide.

Papiss Cisse had an opportunity at the other end in the 18th minute, but his left-footed drive from outside the area drifted over the crossbar.

Both sides enjoyed their fair share of attacking possession, though neither keeper was tested until the 25th minute, when West Ham's Jussi Jaaskelainen stood firm to hold onto Yohan Cabaye's effort.

West Ham broke the deadlock just before half-time, and it was former Newcastle favourite Nolan who put them in front.

The midfielder rifled home from close range after good work by Joey O'Brien to give the Hammers a 1-0 lead at the interval.