Reds defender Aapo Halme is targeting a return to first team action after coming through another 90 minutes unscathed for the U23s.
The 23-year-old has not featured in the Sky Bet Championship since September having only returned to the first team fold from injury early last month.
He recently managed a full game at U23 level against Hull City and did so again for Martin Devaney’s side in their 0-0 draw with Coventry City.
Halme has been an unused substitute in each of the last five league games and is now hoping to play a role in our bid for second tier survival.
“I’m just trying to get my foot into the first team,” he said.
“I want to win the games we have because we still have a good chance of staying up.
“It’s the second 90 minutes for me in four months so it felt great.”
Lining up alongside Jasper Moon and Amir Ariely in defence, the towering Finland native helped Martin Devaney’s side keep a clean sheet against strong opposition.
“I think we played well as a team,” he continued.
“I feel that in the first half, we could have scored a couple of goals but also, they had one chance, I think.
“In the second-half, we didn’t have that many chances but anyway, I think the lads played really well.”
On the hour mark, Halme went to ground and play was halted but fortunately, it was nothing serious.
“I just got a stud on my knee,” explained the defender.
“It was painful for a minute but then it was okay, so everything is fine!”
Halme also reserved praise for the club’s young prospects, who stood up to the challenge of facing the side sitting top of the Professional Development League North.
He added: “I like that every time, they try their best and try to be brave.”
