ADAM JACKSON admitted his first experience of first-team football was one to remember.

The centre-half moved to Hartlepool United on loan from Middlesbrough last week and made his debut in Saturday’s FA Cup win over Cheltenham Town.

Darlington-born Jackson formed an instant partnership with Matthew Bates and was awarded the sponsors’ man of the match award.

He said: “It was a completely different experience altogether.

"I was told I was playing so it was a case of nervous excitement on Friday afternoon and Saturday morning. I didn't know what to do on the morning, I just couldn't wait for the game and it getting started.

"In the first ten minutes three balls came up in the air and I thought 'this is different to what I've been used to'.

"But I have to say I enjoyed every second of it.’’

Jackson, starting in the absence of the injured Scott Harrison and Magnus Okounghae

"It would be fair to say it was ugly,’’ added Jackson.

"But a victory is a victory and we are through to the next round and we have to be happy with that.

"They were a bit on top in the first half so for us to nick a goal was great for us and gave us something to hold on to in the second half and we ground it out.

"I think the whole defence put a shift in and did really well as a back four and the two midfielders in front.

"If the ball's there you have to throw your body in the way. Everyone did that, Batesy, Jake, Ducky, everyone.

"It's your job in the back four [to keep the ball out your net] otherwise there's no point you being there.