Dior Angus admits that his 75th-minute substitute appearance for Port Vale was a ‘proud’ moment on Saturday afternoon, despite the Valiants falling to defeat at Forest Green Rovers.
Having signed from Redditch United just three days prior to the trip to The New Lawn, the 23-year-old striker revealed just how surreal the last week or so has been.
On making his Football League debut, Angus said: “I’m delighted and I feel very proud, but it’s just a shame about the result really as it wasn’t the one we were after.
“Personally I found it OK, but it’s always hard coming on as a sub in any game to try to make an impact. I enjoyed it though.
“They’re quite physical games in Non-League and that’s similar at this level, but it’s good to finally get out there as I’ve been waiting a long time for this moment.”
Despite only putting pen to paper on an 18-month contract last week, Angus had been training with the squad prior to making the move to Vale Park and he has praised his new teammates.
He is also very fond of Neil Aspin’s approach to management and he is looking forward to working with him on a daily basis, something which wouldn’t have been possible if the club hadn’t have shown faith in him.
He said: “The gaffer is great. He doesn’t say too much, but he’s a good, honest guy and the lads really respect that.
“All of the lads have accepted me really well too, welcoming me with open arms, and that is really important when you enter a new workplace.
“It’s strange that I was an electrician just a few weeks ago and it’s still sinking in, but today was probably the point where it sunk in the most - I’m looking forward to the challenge.”
With his route into professional football not being the conventional one, the striker is grateful for the opportunity to test himself and his family were present to watch him make his bow in Sky Bet League Two.
“My Dad and Grandad were here and they were really proud, but it’s a shame we couldn’t win the game,” Angus said.
“The criticisms will soon come from my Dad I’m sure, but I’m looking forward to playing at Vale Park now.
“I’ve had a good reception from the fans on Twitter and that kind of thing, so I’m looking forward to showing them what I can do if I’m in the squad.”