Oldham Athletic goalkeeper Joel Coleman has had to bide his time for his first professional start for the club but was beaming with joy as his clean sheet ensured victory over Crewe.
After Jake Kean picked up a knock in Tuesday night's defeat to MK Dons, Coleman was handed the number one jersey for yesterday's game and helped Latics to a 1-0 victory, courtesy of Conor Wilkinson's second half strike.
But it was Coleman who takes a lot of plaudits for his clean sheet and he described his emotions of making his first senior start after the game. "I couldn't have wished for a better start," said the 19-year-old.
"I was excited for my grandad and my family as well. I've waited all my life for this moment and I've managed to get a clean sheet. The boys have worked very hard today. Balls kept flying into the box and the lads were heading them away so it was an impressive win."
Coleman was forced into action just after the hour mark as he superbly tipped over an Anthony Grant effort, however, the goalkeeper's afternoon was almost cut short by injury from that shot.
"It was just a bit of cramp," he admitted. "I'm not used to putting tape on so my calfs were a bit sore but I was fine.
"The ball went over a few bodies and I saw it late but it was a comfortable save in the end."
Asked whether he expects to keep his place for the next game, Coleman replied: "Hopefully.
"We've got a massive game on Tuesday night in our local derby against Rochdale so hopefully that's another clean sheet and another win."
Watch the full interview on Latics Player.