WARRINGTON Town goalkeeper Tony McMillan insists his side are going places under manager Paul Carden and says he is enjoying life between the sticks more than ever, writes Sam May.

The 35-year-old’s presence has been a key feature in Yellows’ promotion push so far this season and the experienced goalkeeper, who joined the club from Stalybridge in November 2016, has played a key role in stabilising the defence at Cantilever Park.

He was crowned Warrington’s player of the year back in May and says that, from a young age, being a goalkeeper was something he had always dreamed of.

“Growing up I had always played in goal,” he said.

“It was a position I enjoyed when training and once I started, I didn’t want to play anywhere else.

“When you save the ball and stop it going into the net, it is a great feeling.”

McMillan was crucial in the last FA Trophy match as the Yellows defeated Ashton United on penalties following a 2-2 draw in a replay.

Paul Carden’s side but were indebted to the heroics of McMillan, who saved twice from 12 yards – once in normal time and once in the shootout – to lead his team to victory.

The Warrington stopper made up for his misjudgement by keeping out Jack Dyche’s penalty and, although the Ashton striker did head home a dramatic late equaliser to force extra-time, McMillan went on to save well and help Yellows win the shootout by 4-2.

McMillan says he reads the player who is stepping up to take the penalty.

“It's basically instinct, I go off where the opposing player is stood and shaping up,” he said.

“I try to get in to the mind of the player and then I make my decision as to where I believed he will put the spot kick.”

McMillan claims he was gifted by an Ashton player when they were given a given a penalty in normal time at Cantilever Park.

“The penalty in normal time was a bit of luck as I heard one of his team mates telling him to put it to my left hand side so that was a bonus,” he said.

“As soon as I heard what was being said, I thought to myself it is the way I am going to.

“I am glad I didn’t change my decision as we may have not been able to get through to the next round.

“I stuck to my guns and managed to save it.

“The players’ celebrations were great, it gave me a great feeling, and spurred not just me, but the rest of the team on throughout the match.”

The shot-stopper, who is set to make his 14th appearance in the FA Trophy this weekend against National League North side Tamworth, believes Yellows should not underestimate their opponents.

“I see it being a tough game against Tamworth but think we're good enough to hold our own,” he said.

“We've got some quality players and lads that have had experience in the league above so hopefully that will keep us in good stead and we put in a good performance.”

McMillan believes the team will prepare like they always do, but insists the manager will do what he does best and analyse the other team.

“We will prepare the same for the game as we always do,” he said.

“Paul (Carden) would have done his homework on the Tamworth team to ensure we know what is expected and what we must do going into the game”.

He says ex-Southport manager Carden is the best manager for the club and believes he has everything you want in a football manager.

“I think Paul is the man to take the club to the next level, he has a wealth of experience in non-league as well as the league,” he said.

“He is an excellent coach and is a very good man manager.

“I have been at the club for a long time now and I am enjoying life as a Yellows player, I will continue to work hard and give my all to the team.

“I've enjoyed my time since I joined Warrington. It’s a very well run football club, friendly staff and top fans. Hopefully we can get promotion for everyone this season.”