Canterbury prospect Lizzie Neal became one of the youngest goalscorers in top-flight history as she netted on her debut – just a month after her 15th birthday.

Neal, who played for the under-14s last season, only became eligible to play in the Investec National Premier Division when she turned 15 on October 8 and she fired the eighth goal as the city club won 9-0 at Olton & West Warwicks on Saturday.

The Kent College pupil – who was a ball-girl at Polo Farm as recently as March – said: “I was excited and couldn’t wait to play when I was asked. I was surprisingly not nervous as I couldn’t wait to play that standard of hockey with some great players.

“I thought the game went as well as I could have wanted and was so happy as I had aimed to get a goal.

“When my chance arrived, I didn’t have much time to think about it, I just took the opportunity from a cross from Jen Wilson and hit it in. I was so happy and excited.”

She added: “I just want to keep playing the most hockey I can. Unfortunately, I didn’t get into the national age group squad this year but in the future I hope to play for England.

“But for the moment, I am just happy to be playing, training and improving with the first-team and playing matches whenever I am needed.”

Canterbury sit second, behind leaders Reading on goal difference, and have a four-point lead over nearest chasers Clifton, who visit Polo Farm on Sunday (12.45pm).

Player-coach Jen Wilson said: “We had her in mind for a year or two’s time but Lizzie has looked good for the 2nds and in training and deserved her chance.”

Wilson added: “We have a big game coming up the week after against Reading but our focus is solely on Clifton.

“It will be a tough game but we’re hoping there will be a great club atmosphere with the game following mini and junior training on Sunday morning.”