Former Heybridge Swifts goalkeeper, Simon Royce, fulfilled every young footballers dream on Sunday, when he made his premiership debut, for Charlton Athletic against Ruud Gullit's Newcastle United.

Included in the Newcastle line-up were the likes of England captain Alan Shearer and Gary Speed, and although Shearer did not get a shot past Royce, he was beaten by Temuri Ketsbaia and Nolberto Solano goals.

However, Royce saw his Charlton side battle back to gain a vital point with a late equaliser.

Heybridge Swifts sold Royce to Southend United in November 1991, and after two seasons making the occasional appearance, he forced his way to being the number one choice at Roots Hall, after displacing Paul Sansome.

Royce then enjoyed five seasons at the top of his game but as Southend slipped down the tables, they chose to hang on to him, despite numerous approaches from top clubs.

Then, at the end of last season, Royce's contract wasn't renewed and in the summer he signed for Charlton.

Having gained promotion from division one, they made an excellent start to the season, but have slipped down the table in recent weeks, and Royce was given his opportunity against Newcastle, replacing the dropped Sasa Ilic.

Royce said that he still looks out for the Heybridge Swifts results in the Ryman League, and is pleased that they are making headway towards securing their premier division status.

Simon Royce, who made his premiership debut for Charlton Athletic on Sunday.

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