LITTLE Oakley goalkeeper Luke Tynan hopes to make the grade at county level.

The 17-year-old has been picked to represent the Essex County Schools under-18s team in next Friday’s match against Surrey, in Guildford.

He was given the news after impressing at a trial in Southend on Monday.

“It’s a big achievement for me,” said Tynan, whose dad, Sean, is joint-manager of Oakley.

“I felt nervous going into the trial because I knew there was a lot at stake.

“I wanted to do myself justice because I’ve worked hard for this opportunity and, thankfully, I was pleased with the way I performed.

“We had a training match and I made a few important saves.

“Essex’s goalkeeping coach gave me some positive feedback afterwards and then the manager asked me to play next Friday.

“I know I’ll have a few butterflies before the game but it’s always good to be nervous.

“I’m looking forward to it and hope it’s the first of more appearances for my county.”