Nathan Patterson has lifted the lid on his confidence to take a penalty against Celtic as Everton triumphed shootout winners in the Sydney Super Cup clash between the two British heavyweights.
Defences were on top during the 90 minutes with a goalless draw before the English Premier League side showed their clinical touch from the spot with Patterson one of four scorers for the Toffees. Boss Frank Lampard appeared surprised when the 21-year-old volunteered as the Blues decided on their takers after the final whistle. However, Patterson insists it's something he often practices and knew he would relish the pressure of attempting to beat Joe Hart, considering he came through the ranks at their Glasgow rivals Rangers prior to his £16million move to Goodison Park.
"I've taken a few penalties in training so I was a wee bit confident, that is why I stood up," Patterson told the Liverpool Echo. "I asked the gaffer and he questioned me and was like: 'Are you sure?' But I like to feel the pressure, when you play football you are in a pressure environment so I am used to it.
"Of course, obviously the pressure in taking the penalty and the pressure of it being against Celtic as well, but I just wanted to step up, I asked to take a pen, I felt confident and slotted it away so I was buzzing to do that."
41,121 fans were in attendance for the match at the Accor Stadium in Sydney for the clash and Patterson was appreciative at all those who turned out as he admitted the conditions were tough to play in.
He added: "The support all the way out here in Australia has been amazing, the city is unbelievable and the weather is great - tough conditions [to play in] but all the boys have done really well. The supporters are great. They have come all this way so I wanted to show we are thankful they came, so signed some of the strips and it is great to see them all."
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