Youngster Marsden enjoys man of the match Stags debut

But the 19-year-old youth team product said his special day had been tainted by the disappointing defeat, which wasn’t helped by a 44th minute red card for Matt Rhead.

“I didn’t know I had won man of the match until someone came down to ask me to come upstairs so it came as a bit of a shock,” he smiled.

“Obviously it is always good to make your debut when you’ve come through the ranks and it’s just a shame about the result.

“It was a tough game as Torquay were fighting for everything and we knew they’d chuck everything at us.

“It was quicker tempo out there for me and I was up against men, but I hope I get used to it and kick on.

“Nerves kicked in for the first 45 minutes but after that I came out for the second half and felt better and had the lads behind me.”

Fans were delighted to see Marsden had a long throw on him and he said: “I have had this throw as a weapon for a long time but never had the chance to use it. We had a few chances off it. I hope I can use it more in the future and get us a few goals.”

He is optimistic other young players will soon follow him into the first tea,

“There are some good youth team players here coming through aged 16/17 and I hope they will come through the ranks like I have,” he said.

“I know I have got to keep on working hard and that this is just the start for me. I will keep working and hope I get my rewards.

“We had a rocket at half-time which needed, though I thought we were the better team for the first 25 minutes.

“Once we scored straight after half-time I thought we might kick on and get another goal.

“It was hard without Matt Rhead. He holds the ball up and flicks it for others to run onto and he was a big loss.”