Rhys Healey was “buzzing,” after marking his Colchester United debut with a goal in Saturday’s 3-0 win at bottom club Crewe.

In fact, it was the 19-year-old’s first touch, when he raced onto Gavin Massey’s through-ball to slot home the U’s second goal past keeper Ben Garratt.

Front-runner Healey, introduced as a 54th minute substitute to make his debut in the Football League, is now hoping to build on this cameo role during his three-month loan stay from Cardiff City.

“I was just buzzing when I got on, and it was great to top it off with a goal,” enthused Healey. “Now I just want to carry that on into next week (at Preston).

“I was dying to get on, and play in the Football League. I think it was about my first touch, when I scored my goal. You’ve got to take your chances, because you don’t get many in this league.

“At Cardiff I was scoring goals (for the under-21s) as well. I just need to prove to other people that if I get a chance, then I can take it, as you saw today.

“It was a great assist from Gavin (Massey). He saw me straight away.

“In such a situation, the best you can do is to hit the target, keep it low and then just hope for the best,” added Healey.

After beginning his career at Gap Connah’s Quay, in the Welsh Premier League, Healey signed for Cardiff in January, 2013, making his debut on the final day of last season against Chelsea.

Healey appeared as a 74th minute substitute, in the 2-1 defeat to Chelsea, and is now looking to make his mark in the third tier.

“It’s been a good first week at Colchester,” continued Healey.

“Most of the lads are young as well. It’s a young squad, which is good, because it means you get opportunities.

“My aim is to get a few more games, and help Colchester United to progress up the table, as well as getting the experience that I need.

“I just have to wait for my time to come now.

“Playing against Chelsea was a memorable moment for me, but making my Football League debut was just as good. I will never forget it,” concluded Healey.