Nathan Patterson was determined to take a penalty against Celtic despite being asked by Frank Lampard: "Are you sure?"
The ex-Rangers man said he put his hand up to take a spot-kick because he enjoys performing under pressure - and admitted it had extra meaning being against his former Old Firm rival. Patterson took the decisive third penalty, putting Everton 3-0 up and essentially taking the shoot-out beyond the reach of the Scottish champions.
Speaking to the ECHO in Sydney, the 21-year-old said he was pleased to get another 90 minutes under his belt after his return from injury and also expressed his admiration for the Blues fans who have turned out in Australia to back the team.
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Everton's 4-2 win on penalties followed a goalless draw with Celtic in front of just over 41,000 fans at the Accor Stadium. The result meant Frank Lampard's side clinched the inaugural Sydney Super Cup. While Everton face Western Sydney Wanderers on Wednesday it was the result in the event's headline game that decided its winner.
Patterson put in a solid defensive display at right-wingback and was largely untroubled, with Celtic's best opportunities typically coming down Everton's left flank. His most significant involvement was the penalty and after the game he revealed he has a good record from 12 yards at Finch Farm - though his manager still appeared surprised when he stepped forward and volunteered as the Blues decided on their takers after the final whistle. Lampard had no problem agreeing once Patterson made clear he was keen to be one.
Patterson said: "I've taken a few penalties in training so I was a wee bit confident, that is why I stood up. I asked the gaffer and he questioned me and was like: 'Are you sure?' But I like to feel the pressure, when you play football you are in a pressure environment so I am used to it."
Asked whether he felt under pressure when he walked towards Joe Hart's goal, he added: "Of course, obviously the pressure in taking the penalty and the pressure of it being against Celtic as well, but I just wanted to step up, I asked to take a pen, I felt confident and slotted it away so I was buzzing to do that."
Patterson has been a visible presence in Sydney after he, like those in the Celtic squad who were selected for Scotland duty, withdrew from the national side in order to travel with the Blues. The defender has been a willing figure when dealing with requests for pictures and signatures - explaining he felt it was important to show his gratitude to supporters who had made the effort to watch the Blues.
He said: "The support all the way out here in Australia has been amazing, the city is unbelievable and the weather is great - tough conditions [to play in] but all the boys have done really well. The supporters are great. They have come all this way so I wanted to show we are thankful they came, so signed some of the strips and it is great to see them all."
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