Stoke City boss Paul Lambert admits West Ham's late equaliser was a "blow" after their 1-1 draw on Monday night.

Peter Crouch netted for Stoke on 79 minutes, but Andy Carroll scored a late equaliser to secure a 1-1 draw for West Ham in the Premier League.

Lambert said afterwards: "It is a blow because we were so close to winning. I thought we were excellent. We had good chances for an away team but I know they had a couple of goals disallowed too. I couldn't ask for any more from my players.

"I think the cross is not a great one, and it helps them. You have to praise the goal, it's a great finish.

"We were very good. We had good moments, good chances and we've been playing well. We're willing to fight and we have got the supporters behind us. A win on Sunday really sets the cats among the pigeons."

He continued: "I am proud of the team. We need to keep doing what we're doing and we will be in the mix. I have got great belief in them. We had some good games and have been unfortunate.

"I've never had a problem lifting the lads, they have been a credit to the club, doing everything to stay in the league. I came in late, but I'm absolutely loving it and willing to fight."