The chance to the impress was especially sweet for the Bermuda international as it was also his first Football League appearance after his arrival from non-league Ilkeston in the summer.
After the match Simons reflected on a landmark day: "I found out before the game that I was on the bench. The manager told me to get ready at half time and said he might put me on. That's what he did and I just tried to do what I can do.
"At first I was a bit nervous but then once I got out there it became just another football game and I did my best to get something for the team. I didn't make too many mistakes and it was just unfortunate that we couldn't get something.
"Now I'm looking forward to Tuesday, hoping to get on again and to do something positive for the team."