NIGEL Clough picked out Mason Bennett's history-making goal as the magical moment of Derby County's victory over Tranmere Rovers in the FA Cup.
Bennett, a product of the Academy, became Derby's youngest-ever scorer at 16 years and 174 days when he scored the final goal in the 5-0 win in Saturday's third round tie at Pride Park.
The former Shirebook Academy pupil beat the previous record set by Lee Holmes, who was 32 days older when he found the net against Coventry City in October 2003.
Bennett now holds two club records.
He is also the youngest-ever player to appear for Derby, a record he also took from Holmes. Bennett was only 15 years and 99 days old when he lined up against Middlesbrough in October 2011.
Clough believes Bennett's first senior goal can prove to be a big moment for the youngster in his development.
"It's great for him and it was probably the high point of the day for us," said the Rams manager.
"He could have got a goal at Middlesbrough when he made his debut but he missed from a couple of yards when he hit the bar.
"A striker's first goal, whether the first of his career or of the season, is always an important moment and we are delighted for him.
"He's doing well in training and coming along nicely in terms of his development.
"Mason's first goal has also made history, which is really nice for him.
"It will be very difficult for somebody to beat that record. It might never be beaten but the way the club are bringing through young players, you never know!"
Saturday was Bennett's fourth appearance of the season and his first since the beginning of December. All his appearances so far this campaign have come as a substitute.
His goal was created by another of the substitutes, Conor Doyle, in what was his first game since September.
The 21-year-old American is back playing following an operation in October to remove his appendix.
Clough was pleased for Doyle.
"He made Mason's goal and we are slowly building his confidence back up," said Clough.
"We see things in training which we know supporters don't see but Conor has got some ability."
Kieron Freeman, 20, was the other substitute used on Saturday.
"It was good experience for the youngsters," said Clough.
"I think the experienced lads on the bench – Nathan Tyson, Jimmy O'Connor and Theo Robinson – all understand that although all of them could have come on, it's vital for the younger ones to come on and get experience."
