SOUTHEND United youngster Terrell Egbri felt it was a dream come true to make his Shrimpers debut.

The 18-year-old winger played the final half an hour of Tuesday night’s 2-0 defeat to Brighton & Hove Albion’s under-21 team in the Leasing.com Trophy.

And the youngster was thrilled by his first taste of senior action.

“It was a beautiful moment for me and my family and it really was a dream come true making my first team debut,” said Egbri.

“When the gaffer called me back from warming up I was nervous but I just wanted to get out on the pitch and make a difference so I was excited as well.”

Egbri, who has impressed for Blues’ under-23 side this season, also came close to scoring as he slammed a left footed shot against the inside of the left post from long range.

And the teenager initially thought his effort was destined for the back of the net.

“I thought my shot went in, then when it came back off the post I was frustrated,” said Egbri.

“I was hoping I could get another chance but it didn’t happen.

“But I really enjoyed getting on the ball and getting crosses into the box.

“I really wanted to score on my debut as it would have been a surreal feeling but it wasn’t to be and obviously the result was frustrating for us all as well.”

Egbri will now be looking to build on his debut and he is also keen to keep on impressing during his loan spell with Harlow Town, who line up in the Isthmian Premier League.

“I’m hoping I can keep on improving and keep on learning everyday so it betters my development,” said Egbri.

“If I do that then I can hopefully get more opportunities to be in and around the first team but I want to keep on doing well at Harlow too.”

Egbri has now been with the Shrimpers for the past four years after impressing while lining up for Carrib FC in South London.

A successful six-week trial followed and Egbri is eager to prove his lack of height will not be an issue after he was rejected by Premier League clubs for being too small.

“I am so determined to prove everyone who has doubted me wrong,” said Egbri.

“My parents have encouraged me through the times where I thought I wasn’t going to make it because of my height but they have belief in me and that made me want to keep on going and never give up.

“I’ll keep working hard and hope to get more opportunities to play.”