Joe Thomas was delighted to make his EFL debut on Saturday afternoon as he helped Newport County secure a hard-fought draw at Notts County.
The 22-year-old made his second appearance of the season, having previously started in County's Bristol Street Motors Trophy defeat to Reading earlier this month.
But after overcoming a series of injury setbacks and impressing in training, the defender was thrilled to get his first opportunity in league action at Meadow Lane.
“It was a special moment to make my league debut today, and it was a good game to be involved in,” said Thomas.
“I started in the cup game a couple of weeks ago at Reading, and I thought I did well, so I was hoping my league debut wouldn’t be too far away.
"I’ve had a frustrating time with ankle injuries over the last season and this season too, but I’ve kept working hard to get fit.
“I knew what I had to do to get back into the squad, and I’ve been training well. Thankfully, today was the day. When the manager [Nelson Jardim] called me over, it was a surreal feeling.
“Since coming here I’ve had conversations with Nelson, and he’s told me to keep working hard every day, showing what I can do, the variety of positions I can play, and keeping my belief.
“Today, I got my reward and made my debut. To now officially call myself a Football League player is a great feeling.
"It’s a moment I’ll certainly remember for a long time."
The Exiles fought valiantly for the point, putting in a disciplined defensive display to secure their second consecutive clean sheet in League Two.
Thomas, who came on as a substitute, was proud of his team’s efforts in a game that saw them under pressure for long spells.
And the defender admitted the point is a huge step in the right direction for his side as they enter a busy festive period.
“A game like that was tough to come into,” he added.
“Notts County are a very good side and will definitely be in the promotion race. At times, we had our backs against the wall, but we showed brilliant character to hold out.
"When I came on, I just tried to help the team as much as possible to secure that point and the clean sheet.
“We’ve had a few games this season where we haven’t quite been at it, and we’ve conceded too many goals. But these 0-0 draws away from home against top sides show the progress we are making.
"We’re becoming a tough team to break down, and now it’s about building on that, especially in the attacking areas.”
He added: “The support we received today was amazing. Our fans were like the 12th man as always, and they drove us over the line once again. We really appreciate their backing.
“We’ve got some big games ahead, and we’ll be doing everything we can to pick up as many points as possible.”
