A first-half penalty from Mark Noble has given West Ham United a 1-0 lead over Hull City in the Premier League this evening.

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Stewart Downing had an early chance for the hosts following a lively start, but he could not get the better of Allan McGregor in the Hull goal.

The defender also struck the bar in the opening quarter of an hour as he tried to curl the ball in after a quick run down the wing.

The Tigers were reduced to 10 men just over halfway through the opening period when McGregor brought down Mohamed Diame, earning himself a red card and gifting the hosts a penalty.

Backup goalkeeper Steve Harper had to come on in place of Alex Bruce to take over between the posts for Hull, but he was unable to stop Mark Noble's spot kick.

Hull did have a chance to get back on level terms before the break, as Ahmed Elmohamady crossed the ball in for Tom Huddlestone, but the midfielder's half-volley went well high.

Maynor Figueroa also came close for the visitors in stoppage time but Adrian was able to palm it away, ensuring that the Hammers lead at the break.