Conor Okus struck for West Ham s academy on his first start of the season to help earn a 1-1 draw at Crystal Palace

Conor Okus struck for West Ham's academy on his first start of the season to help earn a 1-1 draw at Crystal Palace.

The midfielder struck through the first half after a good move involving Cristian Montano, who was himself just back from injury troubles, while recent knee injury victim Filip Modelski got another game under his belt. The Hammers held the lead until the hour when the Eagles converted a free kick while centre half Paco Craig was off the field receiving treatment.

Having drawn 3-3 last weekend at home to Southampton last weekend, Tony Carr's team will be on the road next Saturday as well when they go to Portsmouth.

Danny Purdy could be back in contention after getting a late run-out against Palace after his goalscoring exploits with the Republic of Ireland under-17 side last week.

West Ham United: Mehmet, Modelski, Brown, Craig (Lampe 65), Sanchez, Barrett (Abdulla), Okus, Werndly, Subuola (Purdy 75), Wearen, Montano.