And West Ham’s latest defeat gave my nephew an early insight into how his life as a Hammers supporter will pan out.

The pride of Essex had gathered to celebrate little Jack’s christening – and spend a happy Sunday afternoon supping lager at the local golf club while keeping an eye on Sky Sports.

Everything was going smoothly until the children’s entertainer set his stall up in front of the big screen.

Luckily it was only the Manchester derby and I was losing interest anyway until City started their comeback and my hopes of a payday were resuscitated.

I certainly stood out in the crowd of excited toddlers gathered round a grown man in a clown suit doing weird things with balloons.

United’s freak winner left me deflated and there was little the clown in front of me could do to lighten my mood.

It’s a bizarre way for a man to make a living and the clown’s afternoon got worse as several heavy-set men suggested he wound his act up with kick-off approaching at Upton Park.

Little Jack just looked bemused as his uncle and mates rode the emotional roller coaster which ended with the traditional spunky win by Liverpool over West Ham.

Perhaps the greatest gift I could give him is a better team to follow – but I’m afraid the amount of claret and blue clobber he’s already amassed means the die is cast.

But this punting business is all about getting back on the horse and it’s to West London we look for a decent price this weekend.

Harry Redknapp’s houdini act hasn’t got going yet at QPR and I can see another blank week for the hoops,

Fulham take the short trip to Loftus Road, and inspired by Dimitar Berbatov, I can see Martin Jol’s men returning with all three points at a decent looking 9/5 with Paddy Power

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Running Total for all 2012 bets to a £10 stake:   +£151.00