Ruth: Character key in brilliant response at West Ham

Main Club Sponsor

TICKETS

SHOP

Albion came from three goals down to draw.

Luke Nicoli

2025-09-27T12:00+01:00

Shannon Ruth's team have ten points after five games in Premier League 2. 📷 by Simon Roe.

Men's under-21 head coach Shannon Ruth was delighted with the way his side fought back to earn a share of the spoils at West Ham United.

The Seagulls found themselves 3-0 down following a difficult first half but put in a hugely impressive second-half display to extend their unbeaten run to three games.

“We were really disappointed with the first half because their three goals were their only three chances,” Ruth reflected. “We felt that we gave them three really soft goals and didn't react well to any of them.

“Our two main problems were the manner of the goals and our reaction to the goals, but I was really pleased with the reaction in the second half.

“We had to change shape a little bit to get us some control and I don't know many teams who have been 3-0 down and have got it back to 3-3. We could even have nicked it in the end, so overall I am pleased.”

Shane Nti has scored four goals and assisted two in five Premier League 2 appearances so far this campaign. 📷 by Simon Roe.

The manner of the second-half display spoke volumes for the character of a side that has lost just once in seven games so far this season.

“That character has been the real key factor for this group,” Ruth added. “The team has started so well this season because they are together. They don't give up and they believe in themselves.

“In the second half we were really strong and created some really good chances. Once we got one, I felt that might give us the momentum we needed.

“West Ham probably felt at 3-0 that it was game over whereas where we played a bit freer and attacked with a bit more intent. At 3-2 the momentum was with us and if any team was going to win, it was going to be us. But the real crux of why we came back was the character we have in the group.”