Rochdale’s teenage hot-shot Joe Bunney could not hide his delight after penning a new two-year-deal at Spotland on Wednesday, just days after his match-winning debut performance.
The 19-year-old was described as an ‘uncut diamond’ by boss Keith Hill when he initially joined in March on non-contract terms from Evo-Stik League Division One South side Northwich Victoria.
But the striker came off the bench to score the only goal in the Dale’s win over Plymouth Argyle last weekend and admitted the strike was one he would not forget.
“It is a fantastic feeling to come from non-league into the pro game and especially to a club like this because this is a great club,” Bunney said.
“I was saying to my mates the other day that it was just six or seven months ago that I was playing college football and now it has come to this, so it is unbelievable really.
“When the ball came in I just didn’t want to miss it, but you couldn’t write scoring with my first touch.
“I’ve come off the bench to score to make it 1-0 and because it has won the game it is one to remember for me.”
Bunney remains grounded despite his bright start and believes he still has work to do to ensure he remains in Hill’s plans for next season.
“This is just the start,” Bunney said. “Scoring on the last day of the season leaves a good taste in the supporters’ and the manager’s mouths for next season.
“It makes me realise that I’ve got to build on that next season. I can’t just score then do nothing else.”
Image courtesy of 5magazine, via YouTube, with thanks
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