Ten man Hammers earn stunning win (From East London and West Essex Guardian Series)

Ten man West Ham United earn remarkable Blackpool win

9:58pm Tuesday 21st February 2012 in Sport By Simon Mail

West Ham United survived the last 35 minutes without a recognised goalkeeper as they remarkably won 4-1 at Blackpool to return to the top of the Championship.

The Hammers were 2-1 up when Robert Green was sent off for a challenge on Roman Bednar. With no substitute keeper the Irons were forced to bring on Henri Lansbury and the Arsenal midfielder went between the posts.

Sam Allardyce's side opened the scoring after 28 minutes when James Tomkins headed home a cross.

The Hammers doubled their lead four minutes later when Jack Collison's cross was converted by striker Nicky Maynard on his first start.

The hosts pulled one back before the break when Kevin Phillips headed home.

Despite being down to ten men, West Ham made it 3-1 after 74 minutes when substitute Gary O'Neil netted.

Incredibly Ricardo Vaz Te added the fourth in the last minute to complete a sensational win for the Hammers.