"An absolute privilege!" Connor Dimaio on making history at the Jakemans Community Stadium

Substitute becomes first Pilgrims to score at new ground before netting penalty in shootout...
Connor Dimaio. Photo: Oliver AtkinConnor Dimaio. Photo: Oliver Atkin
Connor Dimaio. Photo: Oliver Atkin

Connor Dimaio was happy to make history at the Jakemans Community Stadium - and just as delighted to book a place in round four of the FA Trophy.

The substitute became the first Pilgrims to score at the new ground with a late curling effort which cancelled out Junior Mondal's opener for AFC Fylde.

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Dimaio, who was alerted to the fact he booked his place in United folklore by assistant John McDermott, also slotted home a cool penalty as United won the shootout 4-2.

"It's an absolute privilege. After the game Macca said 'you made a bit of history there'," Dimaio said.

"But I knew it wasn't done and we had to win the penalties. We won so it was brilliant."

Dimaio's first goal for the club came at the perfect moment, and arrived following a pep talk from manager Craig Elliott.

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"The gaffer said I need to work a yard and shoot more," Dimaio explained.

"Hopefully, I can do it more now and get more goals for the team."

Reflecting on his spot kick, Dimaio added: "Nice and relaxed penalty. I just watched the keeper and slid it in there.

"You've just got to be confident, pick a spot and go for it."

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