PAUL MULLIN’S spectacular strike to set up Sunday’s trip to Wembley has gone viral but the goal wouldn’t have happened it if hadn’t been for Liam McAlinden.

The FA Trophy semi-final between Wrexham and Stockport was goalless when Mullin broke the deadlock in the 91st minute.

The Hatters broke forward but Reds’ substitute McAlinden made a brilliant tackle to dispossess Paddy Madden. Jordan Davies then threaded a perfect pass through to Mullin who chipped goalkeeper Ben Hinchliffe from outside area.

That first goal has taken the footballing world by storm, and McAlinden was pleased with his contribution.

“I found myself in a bit of an undue situation, last man back on my own,” said McAlinden.

“Being wing-back, you do your corner duties and stay back so I am kind of last man.

“I saw the pass come infield and it was a bit of an all-or-nothing moment really.

“I had to take the ball or he is probably through on goal. I was delighted how it came out.

“The tackle and then the pass but the finish from Mulls is unbelievable.

“Twenty-five yards out in the 91st minute, to do that is unbelievable; but when you have got people in your team like Jordan, Mulls and Ollie Palmer at the top end of the pitch, you always believe you are going to score goals.”

McAlinden can take great satisfaction in the part he played in the goal by starting off the move.

“I will be showing the grandkids that I started it off in 40 years time!” added McAlinden.

“But no, it was just great to be involved in it.”