 Nathan Trott believes a poor opening period to Friday’s game against Arsenal cost West Ham United U23s after the side fell to a 3-0 defeat.
However Academy director Terry Westley highlighting Trott’s performance.
The goalkeeper made a number of top saves, including one from a first-half penalty, in Friday’s match to stop Arsenal from netting more than the three goals they found.
Westley continued, “It was a different type of game and what you do see is people’s character and the ones who can stand up to it when it goes against you.
“On that note, I would probably say our best performer was our goalkeeper, Trott. He’s had 14 plus shots to deal with tonight and he’s pulled off some very good saves, including the penalty.”
Despite Trott putting in a terrific showing in goal the Hammers were bested by Arsenal thanks to a brace from Vlad Dragomir and a second-half finish by Eddie Nketiah.
The opening goal of the match came after just six minutes and Trott feels it was this slow opening for West Ham that saw Arsenal take control of the fixture.
“I think we were off the mark a bit today,” the goalkeeper told whufc.com. “We gave them a bit too much space and I think a team of that quality can get you. We lost 3-0 today and, for games like this against top teams, we have to be a bit more disciplined.
“We have to be focused from the start but we reacted too late and I think by the time we had reacted Arsenal had scored a couple of goals, which makes it very hard to turn the game around and get into the lead.”
Even though West Ham were beaten by Arsenal Trott’s individual performance was worthy of praise, with Academy director Terry Westley even singling out the shot-stopper for his showing.
The 19-year-old saved a first-half penalty and insists he will always try to help the team in any way he can.
Trott modestly said, when asked about the penalty save: “I expect these games to be busy so I was just doing my job and trying to help the team as much as possible.
“The thing about penalties is, if you’re going to choose one way, you have to make sure you give it 100 per cent. Don’t second guess yourself. Pick one way and go for it – it worked out for me.”
It won’t be long before the U23s are back in action as Westley’s side prepares to take on Wycombe Wanderers in the final group stage contest of the Checkatrade Trophy.
Trott is eager for the team to show more aggression and strength in Tuesday’s match, with top spot in the group up for grabs.
“Wycombe will be a big game. It will be a physical game like the others. We have to be prepared for that. We have to be a bit more aggressive. It’s good we’ve qualified. We want to keep that form going with another good game.”
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