Swansea City recorded a 3-0 victory over West Ham United at the Liberty Stadium this afternoon.
The visiting Hammers gifted the first two goals to their hosts, who controlled large parts of the second half on their way to securing their spot as leaders of the Premier League.
Sports Mole has dissected the 90 minutes in Wales.
Match stats:
Swansea:
Shots: 10
On target: 7
Possession: 54%
Corners: 5
Fouls: 13
West Ham:
Shots: 7
On target: 6
Possession: 46%
Corners: 5
Fouls: 17
Was the result fair?
Over the course of the 90 minutes, yes. West Ham more than competed during the opening 45 minutes, but Swansea began to control proceedings after the restart. Michael Laudrup really appears to have picked up where Brendan Rodgers left off with the Swans.
Swansea's performance
As mentioned above, it was very similar to the Swansea we saw grace the Premier League last season. They kept the ball extremely well, particularly in the second half. The only thing that may have disappointed Laudrup was the fact that his side did not score more goals.
West Ham's performance
Sam Allardyce will be extremely frustrated with that showing. His side created numerous chances in the first half, but they were unable to beat Michel Vorm. They then proceeded to give away two goals, which all but ended the tie as a contest.
Sports Mole's man of the match
The likes of Michu, Leon Britton and Nathan Dyer all had very good games, but we're going to give the award to Wayne Routledge. The winger made a number of intelligent runs, which caused the West Ham rearguard no end of problems. He also claimed the assist for Danny Graham's goal.
Biggest gaffe
Oh dear James Collins! With his side already 1-0 down, the Welsh defender under-hit a backpass to his goalkeeper Jussi Jaaskelainen. Michu reacted quickly to guide the ball beyond the reach of the Finnish keeper, ending his side's chances in the process.
Referee's performance
A very quiet game from Martin Atkinson, which is usually a good sign for a referee. Players were only booked when absolutely necessary and the game was allowed to flow, which suited Swansea down to the ground.
What next?
Swansea: Leaders Swansea face Sunderland next weekend. If they play like this, you have to fear for the Black Cats.
West Ham: Following last week's win, this defeat will have knocked them back down to earth with a bang. Next up is a trip to Norwich City.
Liam Apicella
