Ross Etheridge admits it was a perfect league debut for him in the 1-0 win over Bristol Rovers on Saturday.

The goalkeeper said he was shocked to get the call-up to the starting XI prior to the clash against Stanley’s fellow promotion chasers but was happy with a clean sheet and a win.

The 21-year-old has been battling with Jason Mooney for the number one spot and was pleased to get his chance.

“When my name was read out before the game on Saturday, I was a bit shocked and nervous to be honest,” said Etheridge, who signed for the Reds in June after coming through the ranks at Derby County.

“But it ended up being the perfect debut as I kept a clean sheet and Sean McConville scored the winner against a team above us in the league so we closed the gap and it all worked out well.”

Etheridge does say it is a weird situation competing against his house mate and friend Mooney for the only goalkeeping spot.

“We went out to warm-up on Saturday and, even though I knew he was disappointed, Jason said ‘well done’ to me and it’s been exactly the same from me to him.

“We are good friends, we live together but there are no grudges. I want him to do well and he will wants me to do well.

“We push each other. He got the chance at the start of the season and I was a bit disappointed but he has done really well. I have kept pushing him in training though and I think the gaffer has noticed that. Things can change quickly in football and I was just happy to get my chance. Now Jason will be putting the pressure on me.

“I was nervous in the warm-up but then it was all about keeping my concentration for 90 minutes and I think I did pretty well. It was the perfect debut and now I have got to try and keep my place.”