While the first team were playing out a six-goal Barclays Premier League thriller at Hull City, three of West Ham United's loanees had a busy Saturday afternoon in the Coca-Cola Football League.
In the Championship, Freddie Sears' cross-shot was converted by Darren Ambrose to earn the Eagles a point from a 1-1 draw at Coventry City. Sears played for 70 minutes at the Ricoh Arena before being replaced by Trinidad and Tobago striker Stern John.
In the same division, central defender Bondz 'Gala made his second substitute appearance for Scunthorpe United in the Iron's 3-0 defeat by Watford at Vicarage Road. Scunthorpe were already 2-0 down when the 20-year-old replaced Matthew Sparrow at half-time. Fellow Hammer Jordan Spence was not involved.
Into League One and defender Matt Fry completed a full 90 minutes as Gillingham were edged out 2-1 by Bristol Rovers at the Memorial Stadium. Fry, 19, should be in action again when Gillingham host Yeovil Town on Tuesday evening.
Midfielder Josh Payne has returned to Chadwell Heath after his loan spell at Colchester United ended on Friday. U's manager Aidy Boothroyd thanked the 18-year-old for his efforts during his time at the Weston Homes Community Stadium, during which he made three appearances.
"If he hadn't been so close to West Ham's first-team picture, I think we might have taken him for another month, but it is best for him to go back and be with his parent club," said Boothroyd.