West Ham United midfielder Stewart Downing admits Manchester United's "direct" style of play surprised them for yesterday's 1-1 draw.

The Hammers looked set for maximum points when Cheikhou Kouyate's superb piece of individual skill gave him his second goal of the season.

However, Daley Blind hit back at the death leaving Downing to rue the hosts not making the most of a fine performance.

"We're frustrated because we thought we were the better team," Downing told whufc.com.

"They played a lot more direct than I thought they would, but we dealt with it and it's the only real chance they've had. We had a good chance at 1-0 when the keeper saved from Mark and obviously you're frustrated to concede in the last minute, but it was a great effort from the lads.

"What a great goal for Cheik and I thought he did very well playing at centre half. I didn't know he could play there but I thought he dealt with Falcao very well.

"For the goal it was a great touch and good finish. It gave us a bit of momentum in the game at that time.

"The only thing [missing] was that we didn't score the second because if we had I think we'd have won the game."