At just 15 years of age, Idrus Abdulahi became Melbourne City's youngest ever A-League player when he came off the bench in the 5-0 win over the Mariners, and it was hardly surprising that he was having to pinch himself to realise that he was out on the pitch.

''I am very happy to have this record,'' the Maribyrnong College student said.

''I was training with the first team the whole week and the gaffer told me I might get a chance and to be ready.'

''I thought I was dreaming, I thought I was in my bedroom last night. I was tapping myself the whole game. Jamo [captain Scott Jamieson] looked after me, told me where to be, the team really helped me out.