A SPORTS student got a taste of life on the pitch as he competed in an FA Cup match.

Darlington College student Matty Lovegreen was brought off the Darlington bench to play in the recent match against Blyth Spartans giving him the chance to experience a national contest.

“It really did feel special,” said the 17-year-old centreback, of Shildon, who debuted for the club’s first team last season and was on the bench for the FA Cup tie.

Matty is studying a BTEC level 3 extended diploma in sports at the college, in which students benefit from top professional coaching and advice thanks to a link with the Martin Gray Football Academy, run by the former professional player and manager of Darlington Football Club.

“Because of injuries I got to come on in the second half in the left back position and it is the biggest game I have ever played in,” he said. “We didn’t win but I felt I played well.

“It just shows what a great course it is at Darlington College. Thanks to the input of Martin and his team, it offers young people some amazing opportunities.”

Mr Gray said: “Matty really rose to the occasion and thoroughly deserved some game time."

Darlington College’s curriculum manager Alan Jones added: “We were all incredibly proud of Matty for his FA Cup achievements and are very excited about the future."

An open day will be held at the college from 5.30pm to 7.30pm on October 21. For more information call 01325-503030 or visit darlington.ac.uk