The Mariners extended their strong run of form with an impressive victory over Accrington Stanley, and for Ty Sellars-Fleming, it was a day he won’t forget in a hurry.

Handed his first start for the club, the wide player delivered a standout performance capped by his maiden goal in black and white, a moment he admits is difficult to put into words.

“It was good, obviously, to get some minutes and it’s always good to start the game as well,” he said. “I’m happy with the performance. I think we played really well, we dominated and the goal was coming. We always looked like we were going to score.

“I think we should have put the game to bed earlier, but I feel like we did well to see the game out in the end.”

Arriving consistently in dangerous areas, Sellars-Fleming looked a constant threat and believed persistence was key to eventually breaking the deadlock.

“I thought it was going to fall for me, but you’ve just got to be in those areas. I’m always ready,” he explained.

The winger’s instinct paid off after the break when a positive first touch set up the chance, and he needed no second invitation.

“When I took that touch, I just knew I needed to shoot and finish off the play. So yeah, that’s what I did.”

As for the celebration?

“Yeah, yeah, yeah… no, I don’t fancy myself as a dancer!” he laughed.

Defensive resolve and dressing room mentality

While the attacking display caught the eye, Sellars-Fleming was quick to highlight the collective effort – particularly the defensive discipline that secured another clean sheet.

“All credit to the lads. We held on, so that’s all that matters really. Another clean sheet as well.”

At half-time, with the game still goalless, the message inside the dressing room was clear.

“Just keep dominating, don’t let them back in and be ruthless. I took that on and went and got a goal.”

Learning from experience

Competing for a place alongside senior players such as Charles Vernam has helped accelerate the youngster’s development, and he is relishing the challenge.

“He’s a great player, obviously a senior pro, so it’s always good to have someone there. I’m pushing him and fighting for my spot, but he’s a top player.”

That healthy competition is reflective of a dressing room Sellars-Fleming describes as being in a particularly strong place.

“The dressing room’s top at the minute, everyone’s so positive and we’re going into games with confidence, so that’s what you want really.”

Eyes on the next challenge

With momentum building and confidence high, attention now turns to a huge test against Premier League opposition in the FA Cup, an occasion the winger is eager to be part of.

“It would be great to play against a Premier League side. I don’t think I’ve done that before, so that would be top.”

For a player still at the beginning of his journey with the Mariners, Sunday represents another opportunity, and if his first start is anything to go by, Sellars-Fleming is ready whenever called upon.

You can watch Ty’s full post match interview here:

UTM