Youth team forward Harry Garstang hoped his consolatory strike in the 3-1 defeat to Blackpool could be a positive for both himself and the team moving forwards.
The second-year scholar, who has often played as the U18s’ lone striker thus far this season, struck his first goal of the campaign with five minutes remaining against the Seasiders after an improved second-half display from the young Lilywhites.
“I think that goal could be very important for us because as a kid growing up through the academy, I have always needed to score one to then go on a run and get more goals,” Garstang told PNE.com of his late headed effort.
“It’s important for us and for myself to keep going and push on for the season. It’s definitely a confidence boost because once you get your first one, you can keep on going and push on for more. Once you get your first, it gets easier.
“I will play anywhere where I’m asked to, but as a striker up front by myself, even though I’m small, I enjoy it because I’m at the top, the attacking end of the team and I get to do what I want to do up there.”
However, as someone who has been with the academy from U9 level, Garstang understands the importance of a derby game as well as anyone.
The 17-year-old said there was only one way to put things right – by succeeding in next weekend’s trip to face Wigan Athletic.
“In the first-half, we were playing too many short passes and sometimes weren’t going long enough but after half-time, we were getting forwards on the half turn more and putting more pressure on their backline, but it just wasn’t to be.
“It was just a frustrating game. It’s happened now though and for the next game it’s simple; we’ve got to win it.”