Andrew Nelson is hoping to make a name for himself after experiencing mixed emotions on his Hartlepool United debut.
The youngster, who moved on loan to Victoria Park until the end of the season during the January transfer window, made his senior bow in a competitive 1-1 draw against Yeovil Town on Saturday.
As Pools look to claw their way up EFL’s League Two, Nelson inspired Padraig Amond’s opener following his early cross into the box.
However, 19-year-old Nelson was to be involved in Yeovil’s leveller as he conceded a penalty which saw Hartlepool-born Matty Dolan fire home.
Speaking to safc.com, Nelson reflected on a “crazy” start to life at Hartlepool, admitting he is keen to grab the opportunity with both hands.
“It offers a new perspective on football as I’ve been brought up in the academy,” he said.
“I have been schooled by Sunderland since I was six so to be able to go out and try to get involved in another team is a great opportunity for me and its one I know I need to take.
“The demands are much higher because its first team football and it was a crazy debut. I know not many people had heard about me before the loan but I really want to show people want I can do.
“I was really nervous before the game on Saturday but that’s part of it and it’s what I have trained for all my life.
“I enjoyed every second of my debut up until 70 minutes or so when I gave away the penalty because I was devastated,” he continued.
“I want to give everything I have, I play with my heart on my sleeve and it’s up to me to help the team.”
