SHAY McCartan hailed one of the “most important goals” he’s ever scored after snatching a dramatic late winner for Accrington Stanley against Plymouth.

The 21-year-old netted his sixth of the season with a diving header in stoppage time as the Reds roared back from a goal down with five minutes to play to beat their promotion rivals.

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Since being brought into the team to replace hernia victim Josh Windass, McCartan has five goals in nine games and he couldn’t hide his delight at Saturday’s late show, tearing off his shirt in celebration.

“That’s one of the most important goals I’ve scored, hence the celebration,” he said. “It took about 10 minutes to get the jersey off, it’s that tight.

“It was a great feeling. That goal and York a couple of years ago are the most important I’ve scored for different reasons. One was to stay up and hopefully the other will help us get promoted.”

Until Billy Kee levelled from the spot five minutes from the end it looked like Stanley were headed down for a second straight home defeat against a promotion rival, having been beaten by Portsmouth on Tuesday night.

“It was an unbelievable end to the game,” said McCartan. “We had a tough game on Tuesday and didn’t perform to our usual standards so we knew that we had to be better. I felt we were undeservedly behind, we had more possession and we were unlucky not to get back in the game sooner.

“I had a chance just when I came on and was unlucky but after we got the penalty there was only one team going to win.”

Kee’s penalty, means Stanley maintained their record of scoring in every home league game this season.

“I think it’s testament to the attacking football we play. We make lots of chances at home,” said Reds chief John Coleman.

“When we put in a toothless display like against Portsmouth it stands out like a sore thumb.”

And Coleman also praised the home fans.

“Even if it gives the players a fraction of a per cent more, it is more, and it lifted them,” he added.

The only disappointment was Matt Crooks limping off with an ankle injury. Stanley are waiting to hear the extent of the damage.