West Ham handed out three first-team debuts last night on their way to an 8-0 win over Macclesfield Town.
It was a night to remember for the fans, who witnessed the club’s biggest victory since 1983.
But it will be even more special for academy trio Grady Diangana, Conor Coventry and Joe Powell.
Diangana was used from the start and he took his chance with both hands.
The 20-year-old scored twice to cap a fine debut.
And he was joined later in the game by Coventry and Powell – his academy team-mates.
Conor Coventry
With West Ham 3-0 up at half-time, Coventry was introduced as a substitute at half-time.
The Republic of Ireland youth international is still a teenager but he has impressed at under-23 level.
He was rewarded with his first match for the senior side and he took to social media to share his emotions.
Coventry said: “Dream come true to make my debut for the club I’ve been at since I was 10. So special to share with it the other young lads and thanks to the fans for the amazing support”
Joe Powell
Powell was introduced towards the end of the game, having shone for the under-23 side this season.
The 19-year-old is a nippy winger with a big future in the game and he took his chance well.
Powell and Diangana played a one-two before the latter scored West Ham’s seventh.
Then, with the score at 7-0, Powell carved a perfect through ball into the path of Diangana, who supplied the finish.
Powell also tweeted his delight with his debut. He said: “Absolutely delighted to make my debut tonight for the club I’ve spent 13 years at. Dream come true.”
https://twitter.com/JoePowell_10/status/1045099928752721925
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