Konstantinos Mavropanos became the first West Ham United centre-back to score two goals in the same match for over a decade as Nuno Espirito Santo’s side ran riot against Wolves at the London Stadium.
In fact, the London Stadium was still basking in the glow of the recently-held 2012 Olympics the last time any Hammers defender did what the Greek gladiator did against Wolverhampton Wanderers, thirteen years down the line.
Mavropanos scored twice either side of half-time as West Ham United leapfrogged Tottenham and boosted their goal-difference by four.
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In doing so, Konstantinos Mavropanos became the first centre-half since James Collins in a 2-2 FA Cup draw with Manchester United in January 2013 to get his name on the score sheet twice in the same match.
Konstantinos Mavropanos emulates James Collins in West Ham United win
The suddenly-prolific Mavropanos calmed the nerves at the end of a tricky opening 45 on Friday night, rising highest to slam a Jarrod Bowen cross past a helpless Jose Sa in the visitors’ net.
On commentary duty for Sky Sports, Alan Smith – a former centre-forward renowned for his heading ability – was licking his lips at the sight of Bowen’s delicious delivery. But Mavropanos’ finish, Smith said, just about edged the assist in terms of pure quality.
“When they needed a good delivery, [Bowen] provided it. It’s a good cross and an even better header,” Smith said.
“[Mavropanos] does absolutely superbly, getting the direction as well. That is a top header on a vital night for the Hammers.”
We at Hammers News predicted that Mavropanos could be key against Wolves. Even we would have to admit, though, that we didn’t see the big defender beating Sa twice.
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Mavropanos’ fine header against Man City was his first in 86 games in England’s top flight, coming during last month’s 1-1 draw. After 86 games without one, he now has three in three.
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“Earlier in the season, he was really struggling. The fans weren’t having him. He’s shown a lot of character [to bounce back],” Smith adds of a man whose presence on the team spirit, not so long ago, was often greeted by groans.
“We saw him [score] a few weeks ago against Man City, and this is a fantastic header,” agrees Jamie Redknapp. “[Wolves’ Yerson] Mosquera finds himself at the back post with Axel Disasi, and Mavropanos gets himself into a great position.
“Beautiful delivery and a great header.”
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