Tom English said his competitive debut for Bristol Rovers was a moment he will never forget after stepping onto the pitch during Tuesday’s thrilling 4-4 draw with Tottenham Hotspur U21s, settled by a 5-4 penalty shootout win.
It was a night full of drama at the Memorial Stadium in the Vertu Trophy. Spurs flew into a three-goal lead before Ellis Harrison pounced on a defensive mix-up just before half-time. Fabrizio Cavegn’s second-half double, along with a curling Hutchinson free-kick, completed the comeback and took the tie the distance. Rovers then held their nerve from the spot to claim the bonus point.
For English, coming on in a game like that was special.
He told BRTV: “It feels wonderful. I was very happy to get on the pitch. It was a crazy game to watch and I was just glad to play my part. I wanted to come on and help the team however I could.
“I just got my shirt on and went straight out there. I knew I had a job to do. It was a tight game and I did not want to make mistakes, so I focused on getting stuck in.”
English has dipped in and out of the first team picture this season, an experience he says has only fuelled his hunger. He also pointed to the support of close teammate Ollie Dewsbury, who has helped him through the transition to the first-team environment.
“I have enjoyed every bit of it. Being around the first team has been really good for me. It just makes me hungrier to keep working hard and stay dedicated.
“Ollie has given me a lot of advice. Sometimes I have not been sure what to do, but he is always there to help. That has made a big difference. It shows that if you put the work in and stay dedicated you will get recognised. There is a pathway here.”
Having been with Rovers since he was just a kid, Tuesday's debut was made all the more special for English when taking into account the work he has put in. Now the youngster is eager to kick on and make even more magical memories.
“I joined when I was eight or nine and my parents did all the travelling for me. It has been tough at times but also a lot of fun. Because I have been here so long it makes the debut even more special. I love the club. It has been my life since I was young.
"Any debut is special but now it is about moving forward. I just want to keep working hard, stay focused and take every chance I get.”
