Danny Ings On Target For Hammers As Hugo Levels Champions League Quarter–Final

West Ham’s Europa Conference League quarter-final with Gent is finely poised after the first leg ended in a 1-1 draw on Thursday night.

Danny Ings’ first ever European goal and third since joining West Ham gave the visitors the lead on the stroke of half-time (45+3) but they had to withstand a late onslaught at the Ghelamco Arena.

While the Hammers, seeking to break a 43-year trophy drought, saw their 100 per cent record in Europe this season ended in the second period, David Moyes will feel confident of completing the job back on home soil.

Gent had won 10 of their previous 15 home games, and Alessio Castro-Montes was involved in the equaliser as he combined with striker Hugo Cuypers, who steadied himself before reversing his shot beyond Alphonse Areola (56).

There was late drama when referee Tasos Sidiropoulos opted to reverse his decision to send off Kamil Piatkowski after a VAR review having initially dismissed him for a challenge on Lucas Paqueta. Replays showed he got the ball.

Gent’s Gift Orban and Tarik Tissoudali both missed good chances to take a slender lead into the second leg next Thursday but the draw means it is the Premier League side who will look to make the most of home advantage at the London Stadium.

Moyes told BT Sport: “I’m not really pleased with the result but a draw away from home in Europe you will nearly always take.

“I expected a bit better, nevertheless it gives us a great chance in the second leg. I have to praise Gent as they were very physical.”