Finlay Herrick will never forget West Ham’s FA Cup quarter-final against Leeds, even though it ended in disappointment.
Herrick came on as a substitute in extra time after Alphonse Areola had to leave the pitch with cramp in his legs.
It was an unexpected debut for the 20-year-old, who then had the responsibility of taking part in the penalty shootout.
Herrick’s day became even more memorable after he received a classy message from a Leeds player.
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Lucas Perri praises Finlay Herrick after West Ham vs Leeds
Leeds goalkeeper Lucas Perri, who saved two of West Ham’s penalties, had some kind words for Herrick after the game.
While the Brazilian denied Jarrod Bowen and Pablo in the shootout, Herrick could only stop Joel Piroe from scoring.
Still, Perri was impressed by the West Ham academy graduate’s assured performance on his Hammers debut.
Finlay Herrick of West Ham United and Leeds United goalkeeper Lucas Perri during the Emirates FA Cup Quarter Final match between West Ham and Leeds
Photo by Charlotte Wilson/Offside/Offside via Getty Images
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“He is going to remember this game for all his life,” Perri told BBC Sport. “They didn’t win, but he is going to remember that for his whole life, and he got his first game and his first penalty save.
“I hope he keeps working, and he has a lot of potential.”
Perri’s comments were not only a nice touch, but they perfectly summed up the momentous occasion in Herrick’s career.
While he must not become complacent, he should be so proud of how he handled himself on the big stage.
Hopefully, it will be the first of many times he steps out in front of the West Ham supporters at the London Stadium.
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