Sean Patton 'delighted' after netting first goal for Reading

Sean Patton got his first goal for Reading on Tuesday night as they defeated MK Dons in the EFL Trophy.

The Drumkeen native came on as a substitute in the 85th minute and made an instant impact as Ben Elliott’s free kick was headed across to Patton who headed home three minutes after coming on for the only goal of the game.

It was a second appearance for the first team, as the 19-year-old also came on against West Ham Under-21s late last month.

Patton told club media after the win over MK Dons: “Unreal, honestly. I was hoping when I was coming on that I could maybe nick a winner and when I did it, I was delighted so hopefully there’s more to come now.

“I couldn’t ask for a better start, and I’m happy out.”

Patton, who attended St Eunan’s College and came through the Finn Harps academy before moving to Derry City, moved to The Royals in September on transfer deadline day from Derry and he has enjoyed his start so far.

“I got invited down to the training camp in Cork for three days, and I was down with the boys training. We got it done late, but thankfully we got it done, and I’m delighted to be here.

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“I’m loving it, ‘Hunty’ (Noel Hunt), and the group has been really great to me. They’ve got a great Irish connection and that’s helped me so it’s helped me settle in.

“It’s good for all the young lads to get an opportunity and showcase their abilities and hopefully we can push on a few rounds and see where it takes us.

“The ambition as a young player, especially when you come in is to hit the ground running and try to get into the first team. I’m playing 21s as well so hopefully I can impress with them and here.”