JAMES Hillson made a dream debut for Highmoor Ibis on Saturday.

The 17-year-old goalkeeper, signed on loan from Reading FC, saved a fourth-minute penalty and helped inspire his side to beat Brackley Town Saints 3-2 for their first home Hellenic League Premier Division win of the season.

“This was his first game in men’s football,” said club chairman Martin Law.

“He made a great save from the penalty, getting both hands to the ball, and that gave him and everyone confidence. He was always talking and organising the defence, which was incredible for someone so young especially on his debut.”

Highmoor also welcomed back Anthony White, who has rejoined the club from Thatcham, and the striker marked his return with a goal in addition to being involved in the other two.

Four minutes before half time he was hauled down in the box and Mitchell Parker made no mistake from the penalty spot. Two minutes later, White chipped the ball over the advancing keeper to double the score to complete a good first half for the hosts.

Hillson again came to his side’s rescue with a couple of fine saves early in the second half as his side came under pressure.

In the 55th minute, Highmoor were reduced to 10 men when Bailey Roffey was shown his second yellow card, but that did not stop them from making it 3-0 in the 65th minute with White setting up the chance for Parker to net his second goal of the game.

However, they came under further pressure and saw their lead cut as Saints pulled two goals back through Josh Bowden and Dan Middleton The visitors had a chance to grab an equaliser in stoppage time, but once again the confident Hillson came to his side’s rescue.

Highmoor remain second from bottom of the table, but are hoping this much-needed victory will give them the impetus to start climbing out of the relegation zone.

Ibis, whose Reading Senior Cup tie against Wokingham & Emmbrook was postponed on Monday due to a waterlogged pitch, are home to Longlevens this Saturday (3pm).