SamLong admitted Oxford United slipping to a late 1-1 draw had taken the edge off his pride at making a full senior debut,.
The 19-year-old, from Bicester, had only made three substitute appearances for the first team. But injuries and a suspension to Tom Newey forced a defensive reshuffle and he was handed a baptism of fire away to Morecambe in Sky Bet League Two on Saturday.
Long came under pressure from the home side, but the centre back did not look out of place.
It was a solid performance, but the teenager’s joy at contributing to the first team was soured by Morecambe’s goal from close range in stoppage time.
He said: “Being 1-0 up and losing a late, scrappy goal is devastating.
“It’s mixed emotions, it was good to make my full league debut, but it would’ve been nice to get a win “We defended so well throughout and worked so hard.
“Then to lose a late goal to draw the game is really hard to take.”
The youngster revealed there had been no problems with nerves after 48 hours notice to prepare.
He said: “The coaching staff told me on Thursday I was starting.
“I was more excited than nervous to get playing. I was just focused. I felt really comfortable, it was a tough game.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article