Defender Magnay will keep on driving forward after two-goal super show

Carl Magnay enjoys his point-saving leveller for Hartlepool United at Crewe. Picture by Frank Reid

The full-back curled home from 25 yards on 41 minutes, before then heading home at the far post to level the scores with just under 15 minutes to play.

This, Magnay said, is something he has been looking to work on under the attack-minded management of Craig Hignett.

Having netted only once for Pools prior to the entertaining encounter with Crewe, in a 2-1 defeat at Wycombe Wanderers last season, it was perhaps something of a shock to see the ex-Chelsea man grab a brace at Gresty Road.

Indeed, the defender has only scored seven goals in his professional career with his most prolific season to date having come at Gateshead in 2013-14 where he netted twice.

But he has been working hard on improving this – wanting to make a more telling contribution to Pools’ attacking play.

The early signs are positive, with his two goals against the Railwaymen following up an assist for Billy Paynter’s winner at Exeter City last weekend.

“It’s crazy isn’t it? But these stories often come up in football,” said Magnay.

“It’s definitely something I want to add to my game.

“Maybe not goals, that’s a bonus, but I certainly want to be more effective in the final third and that’s something I was disappointed with last season and want to work on personally.

“That’s what I’m working towards - I want to continue to contribute and be effective in the final third.”