DEFEAT at Doncaster Rovers made for another frustrating evening for Southend United.

But it was still a night to remember for Shrimpers midfielder Harry Phillips.

For the 22-year-old, who has been with Blues since the age of nine, netted on his full first team debut for the club.

And, despite being frustrated by the 3-1 scoreline, Phillips insisted it was a match he would always remember.

“It meant a lot to me but obviously I’m concentrating on the result more and that was disappointing,” said Phillips “On a personal note I was happy to score on my debut and it was really special for me to play.

“The last couple of years have been a little bit frustrating with a few injuries and I thought I could have got my chance a bit earlier.

“But I’m really pleased to get the start and to do the 90 minutes as well.”

Phillips lined up in an attacking midfield role for the Shrimpers at the Keepmoat Stadium and grew in stature as the game progressed.

However, it was a big step up in standard to what the former Beauchamps School pupil had been used to.

“It’s a massive step up with the pace of the game and the quality of the opposition,” said Phillips.

“It’s a big step up but I thought I did well.

“I was sloppy in possession at times but it’s my first game and things like that are going to happen.

“It’s all a massive learning curve for me, especially against a proper outfit like Doncaster.”

However, Phillips was helped by the more experienced players around him.

And one of those – John White – is claiming an assist for the midfielder’s goal.

“Whitey is claiming an assist and I was about to take another touch but I heard him say shoot so I did and luckily it went in,” said the Wickford-based Phillips.

“To be fair the boys all made it nice for me and the goal was a nice personal moment for me too.

“I was hoping it could help us get back in the game but, unfortunately, that didn’t happen.”

But Phillips, who went on loan to Billericay Town earlier this season, is now keen to build on his debut.

And he is keen to feature against Lincoln City this weekend.

“Hopefully I’ve done enough to get more minutes at the weekend,” said Phillips.

“There’s still quite a few games left and I want to stay in and around it.

“Hopefully next time I get a call I’ll be ready for that as well but I know I have to keep working hard.”

But Phillips was also keen to thank the coaches who have helped him so far.

“Ricky (Duncan) has always stuck by me and Craig (Fagan) has been top class since he’s come in,” said Phillips.

“He’s really pushed me and got my love for football back again.”