Saturday began with frustration and ended in relief for West Ham United fans.
Thousands of supporters marched through Stratford with a coffin and hearse, demanding the resignations of chairman David Sullivan and vice-chair Karren Brady.
By the evening, however, the mood had shifted slightly as West Ham defeated Burnley 3-2, keeping their hopes of Premier League survival alive.
The win — following a 3-1 victory over Newcastle — lifted the Hammers out of the relegation zone on goal difference.
It was a much-needed boost for manager Nuno Espirito Santo, who had struggled to find his rhythm since replacing Graham Potter.
“I’m very, very happy for the boys and our fans. This was a massive game for us,”
said Nuno after the match. “We’ve shown character and the desire to change things.”
West Ham’s Rollercoaster Comeback Against Burnley
The Hammers were far from perfect, looking sluggish and disorganized at times.
Burnley took the lead through Zian Flemming’s header, dominating early possession.
West Ham didn’t register a shot on target until the 44th minute when Callum Wilson equalized from a rebound.
After halftime, frustration grew among the fans, but West Ham came alive late in the game.
Tomas Soucek pounced on a rebound to make it 2-1, and Kyle Walker-Peters sealed the result minutes later.
Burnley’s Josh Cullen scored a late consolation, but it wasn’t enough to stop West Ham’s celebrations.
It marked the first time since March 2024 that West Ham had scored three goals in consecutive league matches. Their expected goals (xG) of 3.02 was also their best this year.
“It’s a small step, but a step in the right direction,” said Nuno.
“We won’t get carried away — it’s about improving as a team.”
Fan Frustrations Continue Despite Victory
Despite the win, the tension off the pitch remains. West Ham fans continue to demand a change in ownership, accusing the board of poor leadership since 2010.
Even the Europa Conference League victory in 2023 hasn’t softened the criticism.
The protests have taken various forms throughout the season — from boycotts to sit-ins and marches.
This latest “funeral procession” drew an estimated 2,000–8,000 supporters.
Organizers Hammers United expressed satisfaction with the turnout, saying:
“Thousands of supporters came out and were clearly heard! COME ON YOU IRONS!”
For Nuno, two wins in a row might buy some time — but for Sullivan and Brady, the fans’ patience has already run out.
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