During the first-half defences were very much on top and neither goalkeeper was troubled the teams going in at the interval with no score on the board.
Northern Ireland striker Jimmy Quinn, who had scored the night before in that thrilling 3-1 Second Division victory over Ipswich Town, went close with a thunderous left-foot drive just after the restart. Like George Parris he was playing at Upton Park the night after facing Ipswich in the League.
With Saturday's game at Newcastle United very much in mind Jimmy was pulled off in the 58th minute, his striking role being taken over by young Michael Macari.
A further substitution was made in the 63rd minute when Darren Hancbck replaced Paul Kelly, making his first appearance of the season.
Both goalkeepers distinguished themselves with brilliant saves. Mark Walton excelling himself to push Leroy Rosenior's ten-yard effort round the post and Stephen Banks making an equally dramatic stop in the Hammers' goal.
With less than ten minutes to go Michael Macari almost grabbed the winner his left-foot shot on the turn just passing the wrong side of an upright.
Michael Basham finally made a timely interception as the Canaries launched a final assault but neither side could find the finish.