Sixteen-year-old striker Jackson Mylchreest was beaming from ear to ear after opening his first team account in Tuesday’s friendly against East Fife.
But the St Johnstone starlet is determined to make sure his impressive scoring contribution is not just a one-off.
Mylchreest produced a lovely guided header as a youthful Saints - sprinkled with a touch of experience - ran riot after the break in Methil.
His goal certainly caught the attention of manager Steven MacLean and the travelling support.
“Scoring for the first team is pretty good for a young player,” Mylchreest smiled.
He added: “I’ve been trying to get as fit as possible, playing games and get minutes in the legs.
“I got a couple of weeks off and had a holiday but then I was straight back into the running.
“You can’t just sit and do nothing because then you are behind others. You need to keep fit.
“The last few weeks have been good and the manager has said young boys will get a chance.
“It gives us lots of confidence that there is a pathway, even for the younger ones.
“We want to keep performing and proving that we are ready.”
The game against East Fife had been locked at 0-0 in the first half before MacLean made 10 changes at the break. Many of those entering the action were from the under-18 team.
Mylchreest told the PA: “At half-time the manager just told us to play with energy and freedom. We did that.
“We scored three good goals and had six or seven players from the under-18 team.
“A lot of us know each other inside out. We have made a bond and know each others’ strengths and weaknesses.
“The full team was top class and there is a lot of potential there. Everyone was saying well done to us and were happy for us.”
Scoring a first ever goal for the senior side was extra special considering Mylchreest’s mum and dad were in attendance.
“Taylor Steven put in a great delivery and I just tried to direct it goalwards and find the corner,” Mylchreest recalls.
“Thankfully it went in and it was a good feeling. It helps to prove that you are doing well.
“My mum and dad were there. They will be over the moon for me. It is always good having the feeling that they will be proud no matter what.
“And it is good to repay them because they have spent their life with me - taking me to training and to games.”
Mylchreest’s next steps in the game are still to be confirmed - whether a loan or if he stays in Perth for now - but he is certainly ready to impress further.
