Saturday's 4-0 Barclays Premier League defeat by Manchester United will not last too long in the memories of most West Ham United fans, but it is a day that Peter Kurucz will never forget.
The 21-year-old goalkeeper made his first-team debut as a 72nd-minute substitute for Robert Green, who was taken off after feeling unwell. The Hungary Under-21 international entered the field with the Hammers already four behind but took the game and opposition in his stride with some assured touches.
"I'm very happy to make my debut in the Premier League. I got about 15 minutes. Greeny felt bad and Mister told me I was going to be on the pitch. It was good but I am sad that we lost the game.
"It was good to make my debut against Manchester United. It is a day I will never forget."
Although Green is expected to have recovered in time to face Birmingham City on Saturday, Kurucz feels the minutes he had on the pitch will stand him in good stead should he be called on again.
"I don't know what was wrong with Greeny but I think he feels better now. I was a little bit nervous but it was good experience for me to play and to have for the rest of the season, even though I only touched the ball four times!"