Nuno admits West Ham still learning after Everton draw | OneFootball

West Ham manager Nuno Espirito Santo admitted his side still have much to learn after their 1-1 draw against Everton at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.

It was the Portuguese first Premier League game in charge of the Hammers, and a determined Everton side tested his players. The home team made the brighter start and took the lead after just 18 minutes.

Michael Keane rose highest inside the area and directed a powerful header past the West Ham goalkeeper to give Everton the advantage. The goal left the visitors chasing the game and searching for a way back into the contest.

Despite their struggles in the first half, the Hammers gradually found their footing and improved after the restart.

They were rewarded in the 65th minute when Jarrod Bowen converted, levelling the score and ensuring his side left with a point.

Nuno reflects on lessons to learn

Speaking to Sky Sports after the game, Santo acknowledged both positive signs and issues needing urgent attention.

“We have to learn so many things. It was a tough game, the reaction of the team was good. There are some positives, some things that are negatives. Now it’s about analysing and trying to find the right solutions.”

The Portuguese manager highlighted the importance of teamwork and collective effort, stressing that togetherness would be central to their progress.

“Our message was very clear: competing like a team and be close to each other. A good first game for us.”

Defensive improvement in the second half

The manager expressed disappointment at the way his side conceded the opening goal, pointing to a lack of aggression in defending Keane’s header.

“In the goal we conceded, we should have been more aggressive and closer to Keane. But the second half we started defending better, everything starts from there.”

He added that while defensive lapses remain an issue, he expects the team to improve with time and continue growing into his methods.

“Things will come naturally. We will start taking the right steps forward.”

The draw leaves West Ham in 19th place, with just one win from their opening six Premier League matches.

The Hammers have collected only four points so far and will need to build momentum quickly to climb out of the relegation zone.

Santo will hope that his team can take the positives from their fightback against Everton and turn them into much-needed victories in the coming weeks.