The East Londoners were well beaten at St James’ Park, losing 3-1 to Newcastle in their penultimate game of the season on Sunday (May 17).
Defeat to Newcastle leaves West Ham on the brink of relegation from the Premier League, two points of 17th placed Tottenham, who have a game in hand.
Speaking to Sky Sports after the game, manager Espirito Santo urged his side to keep up the fight, and “finish the season with dignity.”
"We had a big disadvantage because we conceded two goals, but the game was not lost. We tried to react but the way we conceded was poor," he said.
“Even though we tried to react it was not enough. I saw mistakes, the disorganisation of the team, we were too open, allowing Newcastle to play. It was a very difficult match for us."
On whether he got his team selection wrong: "Maybe we prepare badly? Maybe we made mistakes, we have to look. If you look at the game then probably, yes."
On if he feels let down by his players: "No, no. Let's look at the game. We started poor, we were soft. The waywe conceded the first goal and second goal, everything is much harder.
“Let's try to finish the season with dignity and respect for the club. It is a hard week ahead of us but we owe it to the club to try untl the end.
"Of course I understand (fans' anger).They are frustrated and disappointed with what they saw today, and with reason.
“A team that has been struggling through the season but with better attitude and more fighting spirit, so when the fans don't see it they show their frustrations.
"The way we started the game was really bad but like I said we have been trying to improve and get better. Today was not a step forward.
“We have to realise our situation is very, very difficult, a lot of anxiety and nerves and these things don't help, but we have to take responsibility."
On the week ahead: "Let's wait on Tuesday but we have been in these situations in recent weeks where you have chances to go and don't take it, then we expect what is happening in other games. It is possible but it is difficult."