UNSUNG HEROES

Share Gianfranco Zola made an unhappy start to his reign as West Ham manager as Chris Brunt struck a late winner for West Brom in a 3-2 thriller at The Hawthorns.

Zola had seen his new side recover from conceding an early goal to James Morrison to lead 2-1 thanks to goals from Mark Noble and captain Lucas Neill.

But a penalty from Roman Bednar levelled matter for the home side before Brunt grabbed the clincher seven minutes from time to give Albion their first win of the Premier League campaign.

Zola watched from the stands and will be aware that much work needs to be done defensively if the Hammers are to make strides forward.

Player of the Match : Lucas Neill (West Ham)