SUPER Sam Vokes is the toast of Dean Court after carving his name in Welsh football's hall of fame on an explosive international debut.

The 17-year-old Cherries striker rewrote the Principality's record books when he plundered the quickest goal in Welsh under-21 history on Tuesday.

Vokes netted with his first touch - after just 36 seconds - to pave the way for Wales's comfortable 4-0 win over their Northern Ireland counterparts in Belfast.

The Lymington-raised ex-Priestlands schoolboy only recently discovered he was eligible to represent Wales, qualifying through his grandfather Mike Finch.

Southampton-born Vokes, speaking exclusively to the Daily Echo, said last night: "It was a dream start. I was a bit nervous before kick-off but it relaxes you when you score in the first minute.

"It all happened so quickly. The ball just fell for me in the box and I tucked it away. I was hoping to make a steady start and couldn't believe I got a chance like that so early."

Vokes, whose father Tim was among the crowd, was substituted with around 20 minutes left after feeling his groin. The first congratulatory text message he received came from former Cherries club chaplain Alan Fisher.

He joined his victorious under-21 team-mates to watch the full squad play Northern Ireland at Windsor Park last night and is due to fly back to Cardiff today before returning to training with Cherries tomorrow.

Speaking to the Echo, Wales under-21 boss Brian Flynn said: "Sam did very well and we were very pleased with him.

"He forged a good partnership up front with Ched Evans from Manchester City. They were a good combination and caused Northern Ireland problems all afternoon.

"I was impressed with his general all-round ability and he's a good footballer with a good knowledge of the game for someone so young. He understands his position and took his goal very well indeed.

"Obviously to score after 30 seconds would have been better but that would have been asking for a lot!

"It was a good, solid start and hopefully Sam will continue his progress at international level as we closely monitor him with Bournemouth."

Vokes's strike was confirmed as the fastest on record at Welsh under-21 level by FAW press officer Ceri Stennett who added: "It was an explosive start to his international career.

"He led the line very well and I think he can be very satisfied with his debut. Hopefully he can carry it on into the under-21 championships."