Morecambe matchwinner's delight at making a difference

The Shrimps remained firmly in the League Two promotion fight thanks to a 1-0 win over a Cheltenham Town side who had started the day top of the table.

McAlinden scored the only goal, his first since joining the club last summer, after boss Derek Adams tweaked his system.

Out went the five-man midfield and one up front approach in favour of a midfield diamond and McAlinden forming a strike partnership with Cole Stockton.

“It’s a massive win for us,” said McAlinden.

“Coming into these two games (Cheltenham and Cambridge United), we knew it was going to define our season.

“When I got here, it was a pleasant surprise when I saw my shirt up. To come in and make a difference, I’m delighted.”

An inadvertent touch off Cheltenham defender Ben Tozer gave McAlinden the chance to race clear and score against one of his former clubs.

New leaders Cambridge United are the next opponents on Friday, followed by a visit from struggling Southend United next Tuesday.

“We know these games are big games,” McAlinden said.

“We have tough opponents to come here, who are lower down the league, and we can’t take them for granted.”

Thanks for reading. If you value what we do and are able to support us, a digital subscription is just £1 per month for the first two months. Try us today by clicking here