HAMMERS LET VICTORY SHOT GO TO WASTE

WEST HAM missed a huge opportunity to close the gap on 17th-placed Nottingham Forest after letting the lead slip twice.

- BY PATRICK AUSTEN-HARDY

Hammers boss Nuno Espirito Santo came into the contest without a win in eight matches.

His hopes were not helped by Brighton's astonishing record of never having lost an away fixture at the London Stadium.

The Seagulls' unbeaten streak in east London extended to nine matches, despite the hosts getting in front twice.

An extraordinary first half started with Lucas Paqueta slipping Jarrod Bowen through on goal. The Hammers skipper slid the ball under keeper Bart Verbruggen.