Joey Gibbs says he hopes to continue making an impact when called upon after scoring on his Jets debut against Brisbane Roar.
Hunter Ports Newcastle Jets striker Joey Gibbs says he hopes to continue making an impact when called upon after scoring on his debut for the Club against Brisbane Roar at Suncorp Stadium last Friday.
Making his first appearance of the season, Gibbs came on as an 82nd minute substitute against the Roar with immediate effect.
The 21-year-old scored the game-sealing goal in the 87th minute of the contest to secure a 2-0 win for the Jets against the league leaders.
“It happened pretty quickly,” Gibbs explained.
“It was a great ball from Josh (Brillante) coming in from the right that fell to me, so I just reacted and put it in and it was nice to get that first goal.
“I-m just happy when I got my chance, I took it and I-ll just continue to take things as they come and hopefully get a bit more game time.
“Things like that don-t usually happen too much, a goal on debut, I-m chuffed about it and very happy to score.”
Injuries to Jets attackers Nathan Burns and Emile Heskey paved the way for Gibbs to get his opportunity against the Roar.
Gibbs admitted it would be difficult to nail down a regular spot in the Jets- match day squad when Burns and Heskey return, but he said he would continue striving to contribute when given the opportunity.
“I-ve been patient and waited my turn, but we-ve got a lot of talent in our team to be honest,” Gibbs said.
“There-s a lot of young boys who-ve been doing well and along with experienced guys like Emile (Heskey) and Bridgey (Michael Bridges), it-s very competitive in that front third.
“I tend to take it week by week, but I definitely want to be more involved and hopefully it-s a sign of things to come.”
Gibbs said he felt his game had developed during his first season as a Newcastle Jets player.
“I-ve learnt a lot here, even playing in the youth team and reserves lately,” Gibbs said.
“I-ve been playing there regularly and I think that-s probably lead to me being able to come on and be in a bit of form.
“I-ve been scoring a few goals in the youth league and that-s a good platform to get game time.”
