WEST HAM'S pursuit of a Europa League place was lifted with Diego Tristan's stunning free-kick earning them a narrow victory over Stoke City.

The three points ensures Gianfranco Zola's team leapfrog Fulham – who lost to Chelsea – into seventh place.

The Hammers are now in the box seat to take the final European spot, however, they are being put under growing pressure by Tottenham and Manchester City, who were both victorious today.

Tristan fired the ball over the Stoke wall and past the outstretched arm of Thomas Sorensen after half an hour.

Mark Noble cleared Abdoulaye Faye's effort off the line, while Robert Green denied Ricardo Fuller.

Luis Boa Morte and the home side's Rory Delap were involved in a skirmish after the Portuguese midfielder's reckless tackle, with both players receiving cautions.

After the match Zola was pleased with his players' commitment to the cause. “Every team that has won at Stoke this season has had to work hard,” he said.

“My team showed that they are determined to fight for European qualification.

“It was a great effort and I'm very pleased. I'm proud of my centre backs and the whole team is playing well. The team has been defending well like that for a long time.”