Bowman's delight at first Dunfermline Athletic start

Bowman started for the Scottish Championship side as they beat Clyde 3-2 in the Betfred Cup.

The former Scarborough Athletic full-back said: “I found out on Friday morning at training that I was getting my competitive debut against Clyde on Saturday.”

“Obviously I was a little nervous before kick-off as I’ve been working hard for a long time hoping for an opportunity, but I felt I put in a really good performance.

“Even though we went 2-0 down, we dominated the game for most parts and that suits my game in terms of allowing me get on the front foot from full-back.”

Dunfermline boss Stevie Crawford was full of praise for Bowman, much to the youngster’s delight.

He added: “I had plenty of praise from the coaching staff after the game including the manager.

“I feel I’ve done really well since I came back up for the start of this season, and put some good performances in in pre-season games and was just waiting for an opportunity in the competitive games.

“It’s been difficult to get a place in the starting team so far as we have some really good options at right-back in Aaron Comrie and Steven Whittaker who have SPFL and English Premier League experience between them, but I just had to keep working hard and take my opportunity when it came and I feel I did that.

“Obviously it’s only one game and there’s still plenty more work that needs to be put it to get to where I want to be.”

On Bowman’s display, Athletic boss Crawford said: “I thought he was terrific.

“It’s been a hard year for Matty as he’s come up from down south and he’s had to be patient.

“Going forward he put in some great deliveries and it was great that he managed to make a winning debut.”