Spector and Piquionne strike to ease pressure on Grant

WEST HAM progressed through to the fourth round of the FA Cup at the expense of Barnsley in a result that could go a long way to saving manager Avram Grant's job.

Jonathan Spector eased nerves that would have been building around Upton Park with the opener on 29 minutes. The American slotted home after Mark Noble's shot was deflected into his path for a deserved lead.

The hosts blew a wealth of chances to cement their advantage. Pablo Barrera and Zavon Hines each missed during the first half when it was easier for them to find the net.

Barnsley were vastly improved after the break but they lacked the cutting edge to unpick the West Ham defence. The hosts seemed content to sit on their narrow advantage, as exhibited by the late introduction of Scott Parker to the action.

Adam Hammill did rattle the crossbar with a late deflected effort for the visitors, although the game was put beyond doubt straight afterwards by substitute Freddie Piquionne. He fired home deep into stoppage time to secure the Hammers' safe passage to the next round.