Moyes in confident mood after Carroll’s late West Ham leveller

West Ham boss David Moyes cut a serene figure after a last-gasp leveller from substitute Andy Carroll boosted his sides Premier League survival chances and deepened the relegation worries of opponents Stoke.

The Potters had looked on course for a priceless victory in their battle against the drop when former England hitman Peter Crouch climbed off the bench to give the visitors a late lead.

But Carrolls intervention proved costly for Paul Lamberts charges, who remain in 19th place, five points adrift of safety, whereas the Hammers are now seven points clear of the drop zone in 14th.

“Were in a good position – far better than when I took over – and it was a good point in the end,” said Moyes. “We could have come away with nothing.

“We certainly didnt deserve to lose. If we did, the football gods really would be against us. We bossed the majority of the game. In the main, we played well and were on top when they got their goal.

“The points weve picked up in recent games will help us. Our performances are getting better and normally good performances lead to results. Weve just had a win and two draws and at this time of the season thats not too bad.”

Stoke managerLambert, meanwhile, remains convinced that his players have the quality to prolong the clubs 10-year stay in the top flight, with Sundays clash with Burnley now heightened in importance.

“Im really proud of the team and if we keep doing what were doing then well certainly be in the mix,” said Lambert. “I have great belief. Weve had some really good games but have been unfortunate with Lady Luck.”

West Ham were searching for back-to-back Premier League victories at the London Stadium for only the second time and threatened within the opening moments as Stoke goalkeeper Jack Butland repelled Arthur Masuakus low drive with his feet.

Butland was then on hand to turn an Aaron Cresswell free-kick around the post, while the England stopper also took a Marko Arnautovic shot flush in the face.

Stoke, however, hinted at their first victory in 10 games and only their second on the road all season when Xherdan Shaqiris 79th-minute effort was spilled by Three Lions hopeful Joe Hart and Crouch thundered home the rebound from close range.

But West Ham roared back and salvaged a potentially invaluable point in the last minute of the 90 when Cresswells ball into the box was met on the volley by Carroll, who guided the ball beyond a helpless Butland.

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