Scoring a hat-trick is an impressive feat, but how many players can boast of scoring three goals in a single match against three different goalkeepers? Not many, in fact, only one player comes to mind – West Ham’s defender, Alvin Martin.
During his youth, Alvin played for Everton but left at the age of 16 due to a lack of guaranteed playing time. He had unsuccessful trials with Queens Park Rangers before finally trying his luck with West Ham. They signed the young talent, and he made his debut for them in 1978 at the age of just 19. He remained with West Ham until 1996, playing in over 600 matches for the club. But now, let’s talk about his remarkable hat-trick!
On April 21, 1986, West Ham faced Newcastle in a match at Upton Park. Before the game, Newcastle encountered a predicament – their first-choice goalkeeper, Martin Thomas, was not fully recovered from an injury. Yet, with no backup goalkeeper available due to injuries, they had no other option. Thomas decided to play despite his shoulder injury. However, the injury affected his performance, and by halftime, West Ham led 4-0, with Alvin Martin scoring a fantastic volley in the 4th minute.
During the break, Thomas informed his teammates that he couldn’t continue in the second half. It left Newcastle with no reserve goalkeeper, forcing an outfield player to step into the goal. Striker Peter Beardsley volunteered, but the manager, Willie McFaul, opted for midfielder Chris Hedworth due to his height. With only 15 minutes remaining in the game, Alvin Martin scored another goal with a header, and unfortunately, Hedworth fell awkwardly and injured his collarbone.
Once again, a different player had to assume goalkeeping duties. Eventually, Beardsley got his chance, and Hedworth, with his collarbone bandaged, returned to his original position in midfield. During this time, Alvin Martin managed to score three more goals, including one from a penalty.
The final score was 8-1 in favor of West Ham, and their defender, Alvin Martin, became the first and only player known to have scored a hat-trick against three different goalkeepers in a single match.
The 1985/86 season proved highly successful for West Ham, as they achieved their highest-ever finish in the old First Division, securing the third position.
