YOUNGSTER Kyle Oakes has had a taste of first-team action with Barrow AFC - and is looking forward to the next time he takes to the pitch.

Defender Oakes, who attends Hopwood Hall College, was one of the many youngsters given a run out by Ian Evatt in the Bluebirds' Lancashire Senior Cup thriller against Oldham Athletic.

Barrow AFC train at Hopwood Hall College’s state-of-the-art sports arena and some of their talented students can often be found training with the senior Barrow squad.

“I joined Hopwood Hall College doing an Electrical Installation course and started playing for the College’s football academy too," he said. "It was mentioned that they were looking for people to train with Barrow and I was lucky enough to get to try out."

Oakes trained regularly with the Bluebirds throughout their pre-season campaign, as well as featuring in their 3-3 friendly draw against Lancaster City at the Giant Axe back in July.

He admits that playing with a professional outfit is a bit different from playing with his Hopwood Hall teammates, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t enjoyable.

“It’s been good, I’ve really enjoyed it," he said. "It’s a lot more intense and their standard is much quicker. Some of them take it easy on me but not all of them! Playing for the first team was a great experience. It was probably the most people I’ve ever played in front of and it was a great experience.”

As part of the College’s close relationship with Barrow AFC, Oakes has been afforded a priceless experience at the heart of a full time professional football club. His answer if asked if he thinks he will get another chance to pull on the Bluebirds shirt? “I hope so!”