Gillingham debutant Matt Fry admitted to having mixed emotions after making his first senior start on Saturday.

The 19-year-old, who has joined on a month’s loan from West Ham, looked impressive in central defence but despite a good personal performance it was soured by a Gillingham loss.

He said: "It’s obviously disappointing that we didn’t get a result but on a personal note it’s terrific for me and I think I held my own, so it was a good debut.

"It’s just disappointing not to get all three points because that’s why we came here. We gave it a good go."

Fry has been restricted to reserve team football at West Ham and he enjoyed the experience of stepping into the first team scene.

"It’s a massive step forward," he said. "It’s a big step up for me from reserve team football, which is a good level, but you can’t beat playing out in front
of crowds and first team football.

"You get that adrenalin rush and that gave me a boost, I felt pretty sharp.

"The lads here are a great bunch. They got behind me and gave me the confidence I needed, because I was quite nervous before the game, but I managed to control it quite well.

"It was just such a quick game and you have to stay alert to that for the full 90 minutes.

"I now hope to play on Saturday against Charlton. My aim was to come in and do my best so I can cement my place.

"I’m looking forward to my home debut in front of the Gillingham fans and that will be a good experience for me."