Athlone Town debutant Glen McAuley was almost a hero in more ways than one after his wonder goal deep into the second half of extra time gave them a lifeline in the FAI Cup clash with Waterford this evening.
In an eight-goal thriller at Lissywollen, McAuley grabbed a hat-trick but his efforts were undone as the game was to be decided on penalties and Waterford came up trumps.
Anthony Wordsworth, Shane Griffin, former Premier League star Greg Halford and George Forest scored for Waterford whilst a superb treble from McAuley and an attempt from Stephen Meaney signalled an entertaining evening in Westmeath.
The game was deadlocked at three-a-piece after 90 minutes and headed into extra time in humid conditions at Athlone Town Stadium.
Waterford grabbed the advantage in extra time injury time but it was that spectacular strike from McAuley, in the last moments of the match, that will forever be remembered from the game.
From the kick-off, he spotted Waterford goalkeeper off his line and hammered an effort at goal which found the back of the net much to the delight of the home supporters.
The celebrations were wild, but The Town were unable to complete the miracle as they eventually lost 4-2 on penalties.
