CEK MATES

Reports in his homeland said Tomas was no longer a fan favourite but his equaliser sparked Hammers sing-song.

- HARRY PRATT

WEST HAM'S Tomas Soucek was buzzing on Saturday night - with a mixture of joy and relief.

Not only had his close-range, second-half strike at Brentford (above) salvaged a vital point for the struggling Hammers, it had also been warmly received by the travelling faithful.

There was even a burst of the chant dedicated to the giant Czech as he wheeled away to celebrate.

All of which was music to the ears of Soucek following claims in his homeland that he is no longer a fans' favourite.

The unassuming Irons midfielder, who has a habit of coming up with crucial interventions for the club, said: "It always feels great to score these goals when they're important.