Former Hearts striker Aidan Keena reflects on his dramatic late winner for Hartlepool United at Solihull Moors

Keena hasn’t started a match for Pools since the 2-1 defeat at Barnet last month as he’s had to be patient and try to make an impact off the bench.

And with Tuesday night’s match at Damson Park looking to be heading towards a goalless draw, the Irish striker was introduced to great effect as he turned in Macauley Southam-Hales’ cross four minutes from time.

Keena’s second goal for Pools since arriving from Hearts helped the side move level on points with Solihull in the final play-off place.

“It’s huge, there’s nothing better,” the 20-year-old said about his late winner.

“I wouldn’t say I was happy to be on the bench in the first place but Rob [Harker] has been doing well over the last few weeks.

“He’s a different type of player to myself so it’s great to be able to come on and have an impact like that.

“It always looks easier from the sidelines but I was thinking that if I was on and got myself in there, I’d fancy myself and thankfully Macca put one on a plate for me!

“I just saw Macca take off down the right and I knew he was definitely going to get the ball and he’d be looking to find me next.

“I just had to do my best to keep up with him to be honest. He goes like the wind but luckily I kept up with him and he pulled the ball back.

“I didn’t really think about it, 10-yards out I just hit it and thankfully it found the back of the net.

“Every result we can get in this situation is valuable especially when we can get a big result like that where it’s nearly seen as a six-pointer for us.

“If we keep getting a few more wins we’ll be right in there.”