ELATED Baily Cargill revealed his full Cherries debut had topped everything so far in his fledgling career – even his previous experiences in the Football League.

The 19-year-old reached another milestone when he lined up at the heart of Cherries’ defence during Tuesday’s comfortable 2-0 League Cup win at Exeter City.

Youth product Cargill’s big break came four months after he had made his professional debut in Torquay’s 2-1 win at Bristol Rovers during a loan spell at Plainmoor.

His five games for the eventually-relegated Gulls included a 2-1 derby victory at fierce foes Exeter, but Cargill explained that even the thrill of the Devon bragging rights could not compare with his Cherries inauguration.

Cargill told the Daily Echo: “The biggest game I had played before was probably for Torquay at Exeter. Knowing I had been there before and won helped because I knew a bit about what to expect.

“The atmosphere that day was brilliant. Torquay needed the points and it was a must-win derby but this one definitely ranked above it for me personally.

“I have been here for six years and to have finally played a competitive game for a Championship side, even in the League Cup, was a great achievement.

“It was something I had dreamed of for a long time and I feel very proud. It was an incredible day for me, my family and everyone around me and I really appreciate the manager giving me the opportunity.”

Cargill, who was informed of his inclusion by boss Eddie Howe on Monday, put on an assured show alongside returning team-mate Elliott Ward as Cherries went through with relative ease.

And the rookie defender believes continued progress in the competition can only be good for his chances of more first-team action.

Cargill added: “When the manager told me, I was ecstatic because I had waited a long time for this. All the lads were really pleased and helped me prepare which settled me and got rid of the nerves.

“I have got used to playing with the first team so I was more excited than anything. I usually get quite nervous but I didn’t feel it this time.

“I didn’t think it was the best game I had ever had. I could have played a few better passes but, for a debut, it couldn’t have gone much better.

“Now, I want to try and stake a claim for a first-team spot. It’s going to be tough because we have some brilliant players in my position and I have a lot of work to do.

“Staying in the League Cup will help because it might give me more of an opportunity to play. I’m not setting any targets for the number of games, I just want to keep working hard, stay in the manager’s mind and see how far I can go.”