It has been a big week for midfielder Shandon Baptiste.
The first year pro made his first senior appearance in the 6-2 win at Stevenage on Tuesday night and told us “It was a dream come true.”
“It’s something I’ve worked all my life for and I really enjoyed it” he told iFollow this morning. “It wasn’t like I’d imagined, it was better, but there were a few nerves. That was just when the Gaffer told me to get ready because I was going on. But as soon as I got my first touch I was fine and felt part of the game.”
Shandon is usually a hard working player in the middle of the park but made his bow in a slightly different role on the right.
“I’m a central midfielder really” he said “but if it means getting on the pitch then I’m happy to play anywhere. Wherever he puts me I will do a job.”
Shandon was quick to praise the senior players around him for making him feel part of a fine win that he will never forget.
“They were great, particularly Dwight who was just behind me at right back. He is very experienced and a good talker and he was there to help me, but all of the players did that.”
Far from getting carried away, the level-headed youngster sees that first game as a positive start, but knows there is plenty more to come.
“No, it’s just a start. I’d love to be involved more but it’s about game time and if they want me to go out on loan and play matches then I’m fine with that. It was just one step for me but I want to play games and be part of the first team here a lot more.”