Academy Manager, Ian McGuckin, reveals his pride after four of his players were on the pitch together during Saturday's 1-1 draw at home to Dagenham & Redbridge in the National League.
Louis Stephenson made his 17th senior appearance of the season while Campbell Darcy, Max Storey and Alfie Steel were also involved at the Suit Direct Stadium.
“To see them on the pitch, it was a hugely proud feeling,” stated McGuckin.
“As a whole Club we’re proud to see our young talent come through. That’s not just myself as a coach but everyone associated with their development. As a supporter, there’s nothing better than seeing your local young players battling on the pitch.
“It’s a credit to how they’ve conducted themselves during the course of the season. They’ve earned their opportunity and really left everything out there.
“Louis has worked hard and progressed into getting several starts this season, but we’ve always had three or four lads around the first team in training. They’ve all took a lot from those experiences.
“To see four lads out there on Saturday, and adding Joe Grey to that who also came through the system, was fantastic and it’s those moments that we work towards.
“We’ve still got a few lads gaining experience elsewhere on loan, which will help set them up for senior football. And we’ve still got a few weeks left of the season so we’re still working really hard at the business end of things.”
