Kudus Saves West Ham with Equalizer as Fullkrug Falters

West Ham United were held to a 1-1 draw at home against Brighton & Hove Albion on Saturday. The Hammers may feel disappointed to only take a point from the match after creating better chances overall.

Brighton took the lead in the second half through Mats Wieffer, who capitalized on a weak punch from goalkeeper Lukas Fabianski. However, West Ham quickly equalized just six minutes later through Mohammed Kudus.

The Ghanaian winger reacted well to nod home from close range after Jarrod Bowen’s shot was parried by Brighton keeper Bart Verbruggen. It was a crucial goal for Kudus, who has struggled for form so far this season with just two goals and one assist in 11 league appearances prior to Saturday’s match.

Playing in an unfamiliar left wing role, Kudus put in an impressive all-round performance. He had 49 touches, completed 83% of his passes, and worked hard defensively – winning 11 duels and making 4 successful tackles.

In contrast, West Ham striker Niclas Fullkrug endured a difficult afternoon leading the line. The German summer signing from Borussia Dortmund failed to make an impact, managing just 13 touches in the entire match. His passing was particularly poor, completing only 1 of 8 attempts for a 13% success rate.

Fullkrug lost possession 8 times and failed to win any of his 3 ground duels. He managed just one shot which was off target. It was a frustrating display from the £27.5 million striker, who has struggled to live up to his price tag so far at West Ham.

Manager Julen Lopetegui may consider dropping Fullkrug for the next match and moving Bowen into a central striking role instead. With Michail Antonio out injured for the season, West Ham need more from their main striker.

Kudus’ equalizer ultimately saved West Ham from defeat, but there will be concerns about Fullkrug’s form as the Hammers aim to climb the Premier League table in the coming weeks.