David Moyes has raised the bar at West Ham, hence that imminent new contract, but with that comes increased expectation.
And a point at home to Brighton, depleted or not, was not enough for some and a smattering of boos greeted the final whistle.
They had witnessed their side finish a clear second best to Brighton, missing the chance to make it a perfect Christmas period by increasing the gap between them and the Seagulls and also reducing the one to the top four.
And though the circumstances may not have bought much benefit of the doubt in some sections of the London Stadium, there was mitigation for Moyes.