Southend United's Daniel Bentley pleased with his ‘perfect day’

The Wickford -based 19-year-old made his first start between the sticks at the weekend as Blues fought back to beat the Grecians 2-1 at Roots Hall . And he was delighted to be able to help the team triumph.

“I think it was pretty much the perfect day for me and I’m really pleased,” said Bentley.

“I was nervous before the game but not worried and I think that’s the best way to be.

“But I was really happy with how everything went.

“I had no chance with the goal and we will look at that again because their player was left unmarked.

“However, we were able to come back from that and winning the game made it even more memorable for me.”

Bentley, who attended Bromfords School in Wickford, has been with Blues for the past four seasons and was thrilled to finally be given the nod by first team manager Paul Sturrock.

The youngster had twice come close to being handed his first start – at Burton Albion last season and against Peterborough United at the start of the current campaign.

But both times Sturrock opted to bring Cameron Belford in on loan and Bentley was therefore glad to finally be given a go against the Grecians.

“It was disappointing on those occasions but that’s the manager’s decision and he does things for the good of the team,” said Bentley.

"I just kept on working hard and waiting for another chance and that came on Saturday.

“I didn’t know I was playing until the manager named the team at quarter to two but it was good and hopefully I can go on to make more appearances in the first team now.”

Bentley’s next chance could come at Plymouth Argyle this weekend but he may be back on the bench as first choice goalkeeper Paul Smith is pushing to return from concussion in time to take on the Pilgrims.

However, Bentley earned words of praise from boss Sturrock following his full debut.

“I was also very pleased with the goalie,” said Sturrock.

“I thought he had a competent performance and did well for us.”