West Ham United earned a point against Crystal Palace in South London to inch further clear of the relegation zone with only five games left to go.
The Hammers had opportunities but could not break down a stubborn Palace rearguard.
West Ham also showed resilience, refusing to allow the Eagles in despite being against the ropes for significant stretches.
Nuno Espirito Santo’s side kept a sixth clean sheet of the Premier League campaign with Dinos Mavropanos and Axel Disasi proving imperious.
Fresh off a brace and a clean sheet in his last outing, Mavropanos won 6/10 duels. He made five clearances and two interceptions. He also saw a great chance kept out.
Disasi won 6/8 duels and made 10 clearances. The Frenchman was much smoother with his passing and also completed 2/2 dribbles.
Former Liverpool defender and Sky Sports/CBS pundit Jamie Carragher reserved praise for the two West Ham centre-halves.
Carragher said (via the BBC), “West Ham fans will probably be slightly disappointed right now, but I think it will feel better with every day that passes.
“You are playing against Palace, who are in good form, a side who got to bring on Mateta and Sarr.
“The two centre-backs were absolutely outstanding. They are going to need that if they are to stay up.”
West Ham have games against Everton, Brentford, Arsenal, Newcastle United and Leeds United in the coming weeks as they bid to extend their stay in the top flight.
The Irons should be gunning for at least two wins and two draws in that run to ensure their safety. Their defensive double act will prove pivotal.
Disasi and Mavropanos have formed an excellent partnership that can be the cornerstone of West Ham’s escape.
If West Ham secure their Premier League status, signing Disasi permanently has to be a priority in the summer transfer window.
Stats from Sofascore