Gianluca Scamacca was backed to score “much more” after opening his West Ham account as the Hammers began their final European campaign with a 3-1 win over Danish side Viborg.
Italy striker Scamacca, David Moyes’ star summer signing from Sassuolo, netted a first-half header on his full debut in the Europa Conference League qualifying play-offs.
Jarrod Bowen added a second after the break before Viborg brought one back to Jakob Bonde’s head.
It could have made next week’s second leg in Denmark a little hairy, but Michail Antonio gave the Hammers – last season’s Europa League semi-finalists – some breathing room as they tried to reach the stages. of groups.
Manager David Moyes was suspended – along with Declan Rice and Aaron Cresswell – and watched from the stands as assistant Billy McKinlay took over touchline duties.
“I could feel the heat on the back of my neck,” McKinlay smiled.
“He’s a manager of stature and presence and we need him to lead the troops, so it was strange having him up there watching from afar.”
The Hammers squad was a mix of new signings, senior pros and youngsters and McKinlay added: “I think the performance was a bit frustrating, a bit labored and a bit pedestrian. Bit of a mixed bag really.
“Gianluca is probably super happy and I’m just as happy. Forwards are judged by goals, so getting off the mark quickly is important and there’s a lot more to come from him.
“And Michail’s goal was really important. At 2-0, we had the chance to kick off. We worked a lot on Viborg, and in no way did we think it would be an easy gig.
“We gave up a bad goal, so Michail’s goal calmed us down. I think it’s a good result and we will go into the second leg with good confidence.
Viborg head coach Jacob Friis said: “We’re quite happy with the game, we felt we played an equal game. It’s a big performance for us and we’re disappointed to have lost.
“We are not yet dead and buried. Maybe the hole has been dug – but we’re not there yet.
