Harley Mills

It was a memorable night for Academy graduate Harley Mills as he netted his first professional goal in the 4-1 victory over Crystal Palace Under 21s. 

If there was a photograph to highlight the impact of the club's Academy, it was probably taken in the aftermath of Harley Mills' first professional goal in the 4-1 victory over Crystal Palace Under 21s on Tuesday evening. 

As Mills made his way towards club photographer Joe Dent to celebrate a special moment for him personally, he was chased by fellow Academy graduates Donay O'Brien-Brady, Ricky-Jade Jones and James Dornelly. 

In fact, when the full-time whistle was blown, there were five Academy graduates on the pitch as Ollie Rose joined the quartet for the final moments of the Bristol Street Motors Trophy tie. 

"I was absolutely buzzing to get my first professional goal. I think I started the move, and I just kept going and I wasn't sure if Joel Randall would see me in space, but he did and then I had a bit of a decision to make because Ricky was free in the box, but the defender tried to stop that at pace, I managed to chop inside, took a swing on my right-foot and thankfully it went in.

"It was a great feeling and really pleasing to be able to play a part in the win. I feel in a good place at the minute, I went on-loan to Enfield earlier in the season and I think that really helped me, it was a good test in terms of men's football and since I have been back at the club, I have managed to feature a few times for the Under 21s and score a few goals. 

"It is about consistency now. That is what I am aiming for. I feel that I have improved aspects in my game but I have to keep improving," Mills said.

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