The jeers which rung out around Upton Park as West Ham United came off at half-time against Hull City on Sunday had fascinating echoes with the similar situation at the end of the game against the same opponents last season.

Memorably last March, the Hammers scraped a vital 2-1 win over ten-man Hull in a game in which the opposition looked to have had the extra player.

The resulting backlash, which included an incredulous Sam Allardyce cupping his ear in disbelief at a crowd booing their own side in victory, caused a furore which lasted through to August and nearly cost the manager his job in the process.

This season though, a tactical change and a half-time rocket was enough to alter the game so completely that the 3-0 victory could have become a complete rout with a bit more luck.

That the better performance came when the manager went back to the diamond formation that most fans prefer and which seems to provide more impressive football and results, is an interesting discussion point.

This Is Local London: Sam Allardyce had the last laugh as three second-half goals saw the Hammers beat the Tigers convincingly. Picture: Action ImagesSam Allardyce had the last laugh as three second-half goals saw the Hammers beat the Tigers convincingly. Picture: Action Images

Allardyce himself claims he told his team to cut out the ‘tippy-tappy football’ and get the ball into dangerous areas quicker and with more accuracy - a fascinating insight into how different people see the same game.

I suppose it would need a definition of ‘tippy-tappy’ not readily available in most dictionaries - an internet search only brings up Big Sam’s own quote - but I think most supporters would assume the second half football more defined that epithet than the first.

In truth the difference between last season and this is the Hammers have a stronger squad to call on, more options to change things and - most importantly - greater confidence, which means even after a half of nondescript football, the side have enough belief in their ability to be able to turn things around.

This belief was on show against Everton in the nerve-shredding FA Cup penalty shootout and is likely to be called on again if the Hammers are to progress further this season. It’s worth any number of off-key performances and is something no transfer window opportunity can buy.

It’s a welcome addition to the team and long may it continue.