DONAGHADEE native Mason Munn spoke of his pride after making his competitive debut for Rangers last weekend.The 18 year-old goalkeeper was handed his first team bow in a 5-0 victory over fifth tier side Fraserburgh in the Scottish Cup on Sunday.Former Abbey Villa youth team player Munn signed a new four-year deal with the Glasgow giants last summer and has featured in a number of matchday squads for Phillipe Clement’s side so far this season, with first-choice goalkeeper Jack Butland sidelined through injury and Scotsman Liam Kelly deputising in goal. But on Sunday the teenager was handed his chance in front of 36,000 fans at Ibrox and afterwards paid tribute to both his family and Gers boss Clement. “It was an amazing moment for me and my family who were here to witness it,” said Munn.“For all the things they have done for me, I just want to give a special mention to them. “They have been amazing for me from a young age,” he added. “They would drive me up and down the country back home in Northern Ireland and then when I moved over here, it is not easy for your mum to let you go at 16, so it is a massive commitment.“The manager has shown trust in me, which is amazing, so it is an endless thank you to him for that. “It was a good day, there are definitely things to improve on, but I am still learning. I am only 18.”The ex-Glentoran man said that he’s relishing the opportunity to learn from the experienced Jack Butland and Liam Kelly as he targets more experiences like on Sunday afternoon.He said: “They are both very experienced goalkeepers. Learning from them is a massive thing for me and I try to take small things from them every day. “Of course, there’s that hunger in there and I just want to do it more and more now.”Local representative Stephen Dunne has congratulated Munn on his personal milestone. The North Down MLA said: “This is a testament to Mason’s hard work, dedication and passion for football. “Mason becomes the latest in the series of notable players from Northern Ireland to play at Ibrox. I know those involved with Abbey Villa are immensely proud of Mason’s achievements and are delighted to have played a part in his journey to professional football.”Mr Dunne continued: “I am confident that his first competitive clean sheet will be the first of many. I would like to wish Mason and his family well as he continues to be a proud ambassador for our local area at the highest levels of professional sport.”
