West Ham 2 Ipswich 1
Ipswich's Darren Bent almost put the visitors ahead after just three minutes, but his shot went wide of the post, to the relief of West Ham fans around the ground.
However, it was a frustrating first half for Hammers fans, as both the Steve Lomas and Christian Dailly were denied by the woodwork, as well as several chances going marginally wide from Bobby Zamora.
Alan Pardew's side emerged from the tunnel after the interval full of life, and their efforts finally paid off. A short corner from Michael Carrick allowed Matthew Etherington to strike the ball perfectly past several defenders, and past Kelvin Davis. Pardew showed his delight as the players celebrated with the fans, who were ecstatic.
The heroic West Ham performance continued as they fought to book their place in the play off final. This as ensured by Christian Dailly after 70 minutes. The goal, although a touch scrappy, was fully deserved by the team, and Dailly himself. The party atmosphere continued, as the fans celebrated their lead.
The fourth official indicated three minutes of stoppage time, which couldn't come quickly enough for the fans, the team and Alan Pardew. The nerves bacame apparant amoung the fans, as Ian Westlake of Ipswich hit the cross bar after the 90 minutes had been played. Whistles echoed around the ground, until finally Neale Barry blew his whistle.
The fans and the team were jubilant as Alan Pardew and his team returned to the pitch. Pardew came out to a deafening reception as he announced they have 'not won anything yet'.
West Ham will now face Crystal Palace in the division one play off final on May 29th in cardiff.
