'I’m over the moon - hopefully it will be the first of many'

Wednesday 12 Aug 2015
Karlan Ahearne-Grant (No18) celebrates his strike with his team-mates
Karlan Ahearne-Grant says he is on cloud nine after scoring his first professional goal.

The 17-year-old striker pounced for Charlton Athletic’s second in their 4-1 win over Dagenham & Redbridge in the League Cup first round on Tuesday.

The youngster graduated through the club’s academy and made his first-team debut last season, but he admitted he was relieved after hitting the net for the first time.

“I’m over the moon – I’ve been waiting for it,” the delighted Charlton-born forward told CAFC Player after the game. 

“I’ve played seven or eight games and I’m buzzing now, absolutely buzzing.”

After latching onto a loose ball to finish past the keeper, the England Under-18s international was glad to see a familiar face coming towards him.

Fellow academy graduate Regan Charles-Cook, who was making his full debut, was on hand to help him celebrate.  

Karlan Ahearne-Grant scored his first goal for Charlton Athletic

Karlan Ahearne-Grant celebrates with Regan Charles-Cook

“I didn’t know what to do so I just jumped on Regan,” said Ahearne-Grant. 

“But I’m over the moon and hopefully it will be the first of many.”

Having started the Addicks’ opening game of the season against QPR last Saturday, the hotshot will be hoping for a chance to add to his tally when his side visits Derby County in the Championship this weekend.

By Gary Stonehouse Staff Writer