A terrific goal from Carlton Cole gave the Hammers the lead on 35 minutes after Blackpool missed a host of chances to take an early lead.
Cole’s goal seemed to settle the Hammers before the interval but straight after the break Paul Ince’s son Thomas broke free of the defence to slot home past Rob Green to equalise for the Seasiders.
A nervy second-half then ensued and it looked as though the game was heading for extra time when Ricardo Vaz Te smashed the ball home following some good work from Kevin Nolan and Carlton Cole.
The Hammers fans erupted with joy and the side were able to hold on for one of the most important victories in their recent history.