Just before the New Year, U.S. defender Jonathan Spector went 90 minutes as West Ham United beat Manchester United — again — at Upton Park. And what an eventful 90 minutes it was for the 21-year-old American, who played three positions during the match. He also gave away a penalty kick that looked certain to secure the three points for Manchester United. Trailing 1-0 after 68 minutes, Spector’s botched a headed clearance that bounced off his arm. Luckily, United winger Cristiano Ronaldo missed the ensuing penalty. Anton Ferdinand equalizer came nine minutes later, followed five minutes later by a stunning header from Matthew Upson — both goals coming from set pieces.
Spector, who’s been with the Hammers since January 2006, is unbeaten against Manchester United. “It’s unbelievable, actually,” the Illinois native said. “Since I’ve left the club, I’ve beaten them every time. No draws, no losses. Maybe I’m the good luck charm. Anytime you beat Manchester United, especially when they’re in the kind of form that they are, playing great football, it’s a massive result.”
Spector started the game in his preferred role at center back but was switched to center midfield early in the second half after Scott Parker went off injured. But he finished the game at left back, dropping into defense after Dean Ashton came on to try and salvage the game with 20 minutes left. As for the hand-ball penalty, which was an accident, Spector said, “I certainly can understand why the referee gave it,” Spector said. “Everyone around the ground, especially myself, had a huge amount of relief at that point.”