(Picture: Action Images via Reuters)
Scunthorpe striker Ivan Toney was delighted to start yesterday's 3-2 victory against promotion rivals Bradford, saying he felt he had grabbed the opportunity with both hands.
The young Newcastle loanee started the top-of-the-table clash alongside Paddy Madden, and scored a wonderful brace that included a smart overhead kick to seal a vital three points for the Iron.
It was a huge win for Graham Alexander's side, who had lost five of their last six games before defeating the Bantams, and Toney was extremely happy to play his part.
Speaking to Scunthorpe's official website, the 21-year-old said: “I got my chance, and you've got to take it with both hands. I managed to do that, and get the goals for the team which led to a victory.
“If you're put in the squad you've got to do your job, which I managed to do, and repay the manager for putting me in the side.
“As a player you want to be starting games. I repaid the manager for starting me, by getting the goals and helping the team to a victory.”
The match at Glanford Park was a brilliant advert for League One football, and in a frantic finish, Scunthorpe looked like a side desperate to cling on to three points and rectify their recent poor form.
Despite Bradford creating a host of chances in the closing stages, Toney's teammates worked tirelessly to preserve their one goal lead and were rewarded once the final whistle blew.
“It's tough watching something like that.” said Toney. “I was sat on the bench watching, and I was nervous for the boys. However, we dug deep and it's a great feeling coming off the pitch knowing that we've won the game.
“Everyone was putting their bodies on the line, and fair play to Luke [Daniels] who made some great saves.
“All over, everyone played a part. The fans kept behind us, even when we were losing, so it was a good day for us.”
