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West Ham miss chance to go top after late penalty drama

Jarrod Bowen missed a late penalty as West Ham drew with Queens Park Rangers.

Written by the BettingEdgeHub desk, 10 October 2026

West Ham missed a golden opportunity to climb to the summit of the Championship table on Friday night. Nuno Espirito Santo saw his side held to a one all draw at home by Queens Park Rangers. Punters who backed the home side to secure victory were left frustrated by a wasteful display in front of goal.

Penalty drama costs the hosts

Queens Park Rangers took the lead in the first half after a controversial penalty decision went their way. Nicolas Madsen converted from the spot to punish a slow start from the home team. West Ham improved after the break and equalised through Jarrod Bowen midway through the second half.

Late heroics deny the favourites

Bowen had the chance to steal all three points in stoppage time after another foul in the box. However, the opposing goalkeeper produced two brilliant saves to keep the penalty and the follow up header out. That missed opportunity prevented West Ham from overtaking Swansea City at the top of the standings.

Market reaction and outlook

This dropped point will likely lengthen West Ham odds slightly in the outright promotion markets as the title race heats up. Punters should note that defensive lapses and missed chances continue to plague their consistency. Queens Park Rangers will take plenty of confidence from this result as they climb higher into the top five positions.