West Ham boss David Moyes hails Declan Rice’s ‘Roy of the Rover goal in rout of Genk

David Moyes labeled Declan Rice West Ham’s ‘Roy of the Rovers’ after his memorable solo lead helped them to the semi-finals of the Europa Conference League.

Hammers skipper Rice scored a goal that would have made Melchester Rovers comic book hero Roy Race proud as they defeated Belgian side Gent 4-1 on the night and 5-2 on aggregate.

The England midfielder won the ball in his own half, picked up Lucas Paqueta’s back ball and ran for 60 yards, dodging two challenges before firing the ball in.

“It was certainly a fantastic individual goal,” said Hammers boss Moyes.

“It was a Roy of the Rovers goal. You dribble, you beat someone, you do it again and you go further and score. He is a player, he has great ability and that goal summed him up tonight.

Midfielder won the ball in his own half and ran for 60 yards before throwing the ball home

“If anyone thought they couldn’t, then they’re completely naive. He’s a player and that’s why we rate him so highly.’

The evening didn’t start well for West Ham after Hugo Cuypers bundled Gent into a shock lead after they got possession of the ball from Paqueta.

Mikhail Antonio equalized with a header just before half time, and Paqueta made up for his mistake with a penalty after Joseph Okumu had settled.

Said Benrahma scored West Ham’s penalty in Sunday’s 2-2 draw with Arsenal, but Paqueta was adamant he took it.

“They must have had a good conversation because we scored,” Moyes smiled.

“Paqueta takes a lot of penalties in training and has an ‘interesting’ style. It makes it nerve wracking for the manager.’

Rice’s wonder goal gave West Ham a 3–1 lead and Antonio added a fourth with a drive from the edge of the box.

The Hammers will meet Dutch side AZ Alkmaar in their second consecutive European semi-final, having reached the same stage in the Europa League last season.

“I’m a huge football guy and I don’t know when West Ham last had two European semi-finals,” said Moyes.

Melchester Rovers comic book hero Roy Race would have been proud of the goal

West Ham manager David Moyes celebrates with Rice after securing the semi-final

Big credit to the players, they did a fantastic job. We won the group last year, won the group this year and beat some big teams. But Ghent made it difficult for us.’

Europe was the only bright spot in a difficult season for the Hammers, who are still embroiled in the Premier League relegation battle.

“If you look back at what brought this club back together, it was qualifying for Europe two years ago,” said Moyes.

“The run has kept everyone positive in what has been a difficult season. The Premier League is the priority, but we’re going to enjoy this tonight.”