adminArne Engels played a major role for West Ham United during the first half of their clash with Bolton Wanderers.
The Belgium international was named in the starting XI as the Hammers travelled to the Toughsheet Community Stadium to face Steven Schumacher’s side on 8 September.
West Ham initially took the lead through Jarrod Bowen, but their advantage quickly disappeared. Ruben Rodrigues converted from the penalty spot in the 27th minute to bring Bolton level before the hosts moved ahead.
However, West Ham responded shortly afterwards, with Konstantinos Mavropanos heading home to make it 2-2 before the interval.
While Mavropanos finished the opportunity, the goal was largely created by Engels, whose excellent set-piece delivery caused problems for the Bolton defence.
Engels earns praise after West Ham equaliser
Engels has endured mixed reactions since arriving at West Ham during the summer, but the midfielder is beginning to show more of the qualities that made the club bring him in.
His delivery against Bolton was a perfect example.
The 23-year-old sent a dangerous ball into the penalty area with pace and precision, allowing Mavropanos to rise and produce an excellent finish.
Bolton’s defenders were given very little chance to deal with the delivery because of its speed and trajectory.
Speaking on Sky Sports Football on 8 September, co-commentator Dave Edwards praised the quality of Engels’ set piece.
“This goal is all about Engels. It’s a fantastic delivery; world-class. He whips it in around the back.
“A low trajectory with lots of pace. It zips off the surface, but it’s not an easy header for Mavropanos – an excellent finish.”
The comments underline just how important Engels was to West Ham’s second goal.
Defensive concerns continue for West Ham
Despite Engels’ positive contribution going forward, West Ham’s defensive performance remains a concern.
The Hammers looked vulnerable at the back during the opening 45 minutes against Bolton, continuing a worrying trend that has seen them struggle to keep opponents out.
West Ham have managed only one clean sheet in the Championship this season, which is a significant concern for a side targeting promotion back to the Premier League.
Nuno Espírito Santo will know that defensive improvements are essential if his team are to mount a serious promotion challenge.
Tactical change needed after the break?
Another issue for Nuno to consider is the positioning of Mohamadou Kante.
The 20-year-old French midfielder was deployed in the number 10 role against Bolton, with Engels and Divine Mukasa operating behind him.
Kante struggled to influence proceedings in the attacking third and was unable to provide the creativity West Ham needed in the position.
He also found it difficult to make his presence felt defensively in midfield.
Nuno may therefore need to rethink his tactical setup after the interval, particularly if West Ham are to regain control of the match and avoid dropping more points.
While Engels provided a major attacking spark with his outstanding delivery, West Ham’s defensive weaknesses remain a problem that cannot be ignored.
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