WEST HAM'S reserves got a strong run-out ahead of the new season, despite being on the receiving end of a 1-0 defeat at Bishop's Stortford.

Alex Dyer will have learned a lot about his young side, although there will plenty of things he will be keen to work on before the big kick-off.

Striker Duane Jackman's late header was the only goal to separate the two sides at Woodside Park.

Hammers boss Gianfranco Zola and Steve Clarke were in attendance to watch the burgeoning talent that is young forward Zavon Hines, while January signing Savio Nsereko was also in action.

Nigel Quashie returned to captain the team on the day, while there were also starts for youngsters Oliver Lee and Matt Fry, who recently signed their first professional contracts with the club.

Josh Payne showed plenty of encouraging signs as he bossed things in midfield and there was a start for Jordan Spence, who spent last season on loan with League One side Leyton Orient. New signing Frank Nouble was also given the nod.