The win was also the first for Laws since taking over from Owen Coyle and he insisted his side's performance proved they have what it takes to secure survival.

Laws said: "It was a huge three points and when you talk about games you have to win this was one of them. There was so much pressure but the players were magnificent.

"David Nugent scored a fantastic goal and it set the tone of the game. It gave us great belief because we haven't been in this position for such a long time.

"We've got to make this an uncomfortable place for any team coming here and the fans play a huge part in that. To play under that kind of pressure proves the players can get results."

Laws picked out defender Danny Fox who, in his first game for the Clarets, set up Nugent's opener then fired home a superb 55th-minute free-kick before the Hammers reduced the deficit through Ilan.

Laws added: "Danny had a fantastic debut and you couldn't ask for more. He's a smart acquisition and there's no doubt he'll help give this team a different dimension.

"All the time we've been hunting for our first win there's been no sign of panic. If you stay calm and focused you've got a chance and we showed today that that's what it takes to get results."

Hammers boss Gianfranco Zola insisted he was "not worried" by his side's slip back into the relegation zone despite their woeful run extending to just one win from 10.

Zola said: "We have to be quick because time is running out and the table requires it. But I'm not worried - I'm disappointed because we had enough to do better.

"We have to start using everything at our disposal. When you have teams like Burnley who are playing for their lives they'll come and fight, and we have to do the same.

"We have to make sure we cut out our mistakes because it has been the story of our season - we've played some good football at times and lost games because of mistakes.

"Today has been a little step back but we will come back stronger, I'm sure of that."

Zola paid tribute to his trio of debut forwards, including Benni McCarthy who had two good chances in the first period before being withdrawn with a knee injury.

Zola added: "I thought Benni tried very hard and had an opportunity then he had a problem with his knee. I thought Mido was excellent and Ilan also came on and scored so that is encouraging."