Speaking after netting his first ever professional goal for Barnsley on Saturday afternoon, Aiden Marsh was understandably thrilled.
The 18-year-old academy graduate lashed home with 17 minutes on the clock, fulfilling a childhood dream of scoring on the hallowed turf at Oakwell.
“It’s absolutely unreal,” beamed Marsh. “When I got home and found out I was starting, I said to my dad ‘I’m gonna score tomorrow’ and he said to just give it my best and when I have a chance, have a shot.
“Vic did really well; took it over one player and round the next one, squared it back and, as soon as I saw it bounce, I thought ‘I’m gonna give this a crack’.
“It flew straight in, and it was just a crazy feeling.
“The only thing I’d have changed is if it were at the other side, at the Ponty End – that’d have been the dream. But it’s unreal to score my first goal for Barnsley in the Championship.”
There were plenty of youngsters within our matchday squad for the visit of Preston North End. As well as Marsh, there were starts for Will Hondermarck, Jasper Moon, Jason Sraha and Matty Wolfe, while Amir Ariely, David Bremang, Kieren Flavell and Jordan Helliwell featured amongst the substitutes.
The latter came on for his Sky Bet Championship debut late in the second half and put in an assured performance at right wing-back.
“It’s great to see,” continued Marsh. “Obviously, Jordan made his Championship debut as well today, so I was absolutely buzzing for him. Wolfie and Jasper were in the side as well, so it helps when you’ve got people who you’ve been around for a while in the team.”
West Bromwich Albion are our final opponents of the campaign as we head to the Hawthorns next weekend for a lunchtime kick-off.
While all focus is on the upcoming fixture, Marsh admits there is one eye on hitting the ground running next season and is looking to impress the coaching staff.
“You take every game as it comes, so West Brom – if I’m selected – I’ll give it my all and, hopefully, I’ll take that into next season and keep pushing,” insisted our young striker.
“Daverz, Tom and Jo are in charge at the moment, and I’ve got a really good relationship with all three.
“Obviously, I’ve known Daverz and Tom more or less all my life, so it’s a great feeling to all be involved together, and they do deserve their chance that they’re getting at the minute to step up and take charge, so I’m buzzing for them as well.”
