Forward Danny Walker-Rice was “made up” with his first start for Tranmere Rovers in Wednesday night’s 3-2 victory over Manchester United U21s in the Leasing.com Trophy at Prenton Park.
Walker-Rice, 19, came through Rovers’ youth system and was rewarded with a start by manager Micky Mellon.
Corey Blackett-Taylor struck a second-half winner after Rushian Hepburn-Murphy and Connor Jennings were both on target either side of Tahith Chong’s double in the first-half.
Red Devils youngster Ayodeji Sotona was dismissed during 15 minutes of added time, caused by injuries to Hepburn-Murphy and United’s Reece Devine, for pushing Sid Nelson.
And Walker-Rice was delighted to be involved from the kick-off, as a youthful Rovers advanced to the competition’s third-round.
Walker-Rice said: “I thought I did well, the lads helped me out a lot to get through it in the first-half. We have all done well and I’m made up the result.
“I was made up that the gaffer gave me a chance and I was made up to get the start, it was the first under my belt.
“It’s a big jump, it’s not what I’m used to but I’m getting used to it. I’m training every day with the big lads so it’s good.
“All of the lads have done well tonight, and it was good that we got the result.
“The boss said just enjoy yourself and do what you can, and hopefully I did that.
“The pace is so much different to youth team football, but hopefully I’m getting used to it and hopefully I’ll play more often soon.”
The youngster is hoping that Rovers can go on a run in the trophy, and Walker-Rice is eyeing a trip to Wembley Stadium.
He added: “We can get through and hopefully we can get to the Final at Wembley. It is good for the Club and good for us and it adds to the experience.”
Danny’s post-match interview will be available on iFollow. CLICK HERE to sign up and watch!