Crysencio Summerville provided a rare moment of quality to illuminate a largely forgettable FA Cup encounter, as West Ham United edged past Burton Albion 1-0 after extra-time at the Pirelli Stadium. The Premier League side, managed by Nuno Espirito Santo, struggled for fluency against their League One opponents, who are battling relegation, but Summerville's intervention early in the additional period ensured they avoided a penalty shootout.
A Match Lacking in Spark
For much of the contest, West Ham appeared indifferent to progression in the historic competition, with Nuno Espirito Santo showing little emotion even after Summerville's decisive strike. The Hammers' performance was laboured, contrasting sharply with the invention and enthusiasm displayed by Summerville after his introduction as a substitute in the 83rd minute.
The playing surface at the relatively modern Pirelli Stadium was described as strictly old school, contributing to a scrappy affair that was not easy on the eye. Numerous needless stoppages marred the first half, which featured more interruptions than shots, with Burton's Brad Collins largely untroubled in goal.
Key Moments and Controversy
Summerville's deflected effort dipped under the crossbar to break the deadlock, but West Ham's victory was complicated when Freddie Potts received a red card for a challenge on Julian Larsson shortly afterwards. Referee Lewis Smith's decision was viewed as somewhat harsh, yet West Ham managed to see out the win with minimal fuss despite a late Burton siege and some heated exchanges that roused the home support.
In a match of limited quality, Burton's 17-year-old midfielder Sulyman Krubally stood out as an accomplished operator in the midfield battle, hinting at a bright future ahead. For West Ham, Konstantinos Mavropanos missed a good headed chance, while Adama Traore attempted to liven proceedings but lacked end product.
Broader Implications
This win secures West Ham a place in the fifth round of the FA Cup, offering a distraction from their Premier League survival efforts. Manager Nuno Espirito Santo now faces the challenge of balancing cup commitments with top-flight priorities.
For Burton Albion and manager Gary Bowyer, the focus returns to their fight to avoid relegation from League One. If they can replicate the commitment shown in this cup tie, they stand a chance of preserving their status in the division.
The match served as evidence in support of arguments that all-level ties should proceed directly to penalties, given the lack of entertainment for large periods. However, the extra half-hour provided slightly more drama, thanks to Summerville's moment of class and the late sending off.
