ALAN Connell insists past glories will not temper his enthusiasm to aid Poole Town’s bid for fame and fortune in the FA Cup.

Playing in the proper rounds of the world’s oldest cup competition has been a matter of course for the ex-Cherries striker across more than a decade in the professional game.

But the 32-year-old is adamant the importance of Dolphins’ pursuit of glory is not lost on him after helping his side into today’s fourth qualifying round draw.

Connell told the Daily Echo: “I was fortunate enough to be involved in some big games in my career. I appreciate those times to this day and, of course, you always want more.

“Whatever the occasion, I have always taken it in. I have had some really good times in football and some really bad ones along the way too but at this stage, towards the latter stages of my career, I do try to enjoy every good moment that comes along.

“I have never taken anything for granted and being around the club, you understand just how much it would mean if we could get to the first round and get a good draw. It could set up the club financially and put it on the map.”

Connell’s tireless running in the lone striker’s role aided Poole’s cause during Saturday’s 2-0 win at Hastings and while it was not one for the scrapbook, the summer recruit declared himself content with the outcome.

FA CUP REPORT: Hastings United 0 Poole Town 2

“It was a good team effort,” he added. “It wasn’t particularly enjoyable to play in and probably not enjoyable to watch.

“We got the early goal but I thought it was a bit of a jaded performance from us, maybe because we have played a lot of fixtures lately with another long trip thrown in.

“That said, I thought we were very professional in the way we went about things, we worked hard and didn’t look threatened. Ultimately, it was about getting through to the next round which we did.”

The willing display came on the back of his first goal for the Dolphins, a penalty with 12 minutes to play in Tuesday’s 2-1 Southern League Premier Division victory over Paulton Rovers.

His start at Pilot Field was only his third for the club but Connell believes more opportunities will present themselves as the season goes on.

“I am happy with how things are going,” he continued. “I am really enjoying it and delighted to do well in the FA Cup while getting ourselves right near the top of the league.

"I feel like I have contributed and made a few goals. I am just here to do my best as and when called upon by the manager.

“Getting that first goal was a big moment because the game was at 1-1 with not long left. There is a pressure that comes with taking a penalty but I am always up for it.

"For me personally, it was nice to get that first goal and I want to kick on now.”