St Albans City gave a trio of players their debuts on Saturday and all three impressed the management.

Herts Advertiser: Tom Coulton pounces clear under pressure. Picture: Leigh PageTom Coulton pounces clear under pressure. Picture: Leigh Page (Image: Archant)

Steve Wales and Warren Whitely signed for City on Friday while goalkeeper Tom Coulton was making his Calor Southern League debut in place of the suspended Paul Bastock.

After the game, joint manager James Gray praised his new signings.

“I think Steve did will; he was getting into the positions he wants to be in and he had three or four shots. It was a good debut and he got 90 minutes under his belt; he’ll definitely add something to the team [in the run-in.]

“Warren looked lively when he came on. He’s another player that will add to the team. He’s another option; he’s got raw pace and a good delivery. If we can get him behind the defence then he should give us ammunition to score.”

Coulton’s full debut came last season when he put in a brilliant performance to help City beat Bishop’s Stortford 3-2 in the Herts Charity Cup final.

However, the University of Hertfordshire student has been understudy to Bastock this season and has not seen much playing time. But with Bastock suspended for another two games, Coulton will be City’s number one goalkeeper.

Despite his inexperience, Gray trusts in Coulton’s ability.

“He’s a young lad in first team and he was a bit nervous but I thought it was a solid display. He was demanding [in the box] and did well on his punches. “Hopefully, he can pick up confidence from the game.”