admin“Our aim was obviously to…..”- Tomas Soucek makes tough Leeds United admission with apology as Whites ruin West Ham mileston
Tomas Soucek Reflects on Difficult Milestone Match as West Ham Fall to Leeds
West Ham’s Tomas Soucek reached a major career milestone against Leeds United at Elland Road — but the night didn’t unfold as he had hoped.
The Czech international midfielder made his 200th Premier League appearance during Friday night’s clash, yet it was a frustrating evening for the Hammers. Leeds struck early, taking the lead just three minutes in through Brenden Aaronson’s close-range finish.
Despite a spirited response from West Ham — including a double save by Leeds goalkeeper Lucas Perri to deny Jarrod Bowen’s overhead kick and Lucas Paquetá’s follow-up — the hosts doubled their advantage when Joe Rodon headed in Sean Longstaff’s corner.
West Ham managed to pull one back in the 90th minute through Mateus Fernandes, but Soucek admitted his team were second best for much of the match, ultimately falling to a 2–1 defeat.
“A Really Tough Start”
Speaking to West Ham United’s official website, Soucek said:
“Our aim was obviously to score first, but we conceded early so it was a really tough start.
We had a couple of chances to draw level — Jarrod’s overhead kick and then a header from me — but they got their second. We did get a goal late on, but we were chasing the game almost the whole time. We know we need to step up.”
Soucek emphasized the importance of tightening up defensively:
“We have to keep working hard on being stronger at the back because it’s always difficult if you need two or three goals to get a result. We need to start from the defence and build from there, creating chances and fighting for every ball.”
“We Have to Step Up and Get Points”
The midfielder acknowledged the team’s current struggles and called for collective responsibility:
“We know we’re in a serious situation, and we can’t afford to let more games slip away. I’ve been at the club a long time and have experience, so I need to take responsibility and help ensure everyone is doing their job. We all need to lead, show our quality, and get results for the fans.”
A Message to the Fans
The following day, Soucek shared a heartfelt message on social media:
“Yesterday marked my 200th Premier League match. I’m incredibly grateful for my journey with West Ham — full of amazing moments but also some disappointments.
Thank you all so much for your support, especially the fans, with whom I share a special bond. I’m really sorry about our current situation. West Ham doesn’t belong where we are right now. I’ll do everything I can to help turn things around and get WHU back where it belongs!”
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