ALAN Connell’s header against Barnet in February sealed the Robins’ progress into Sunday’s Wembley final and the Town striker is hoping that he gets on the famous pitch to fulfil a boyhood dream, writes DAN BARNES.

The 29-year-old former Grimsby and Bournemouth man faces stiff competition from the likes of Paul Benson and Ronan Murray for a place spearheading Paolo Di Canio’s attack against Chesterfield.

Like most footballers, Connell grew up dreaming of playing at the country’s most revered stadium but thinks that scoring the goal that got Swindon through the Southern Area final might not carry too much weight in him getting the nod to start this weekend.

“I don’t want to tempt fate or anything but hopefully I can play a part in the game,” said Connell.

“It’s a massive occasion – we’re taking a hell of a lot of supporters there and I’ve got loads of family and friends going, like all the boys have.

“It was always one of my dreams to play at Wembley growing up, it really was.

“I’ve just turned 29 and it’s something that I didn’t want to let slip by without happening so hopefully on March 25, that dream will come true - it’s always been a burning ambition to play there.

“I was delighted to score the winning goal against Barnet in the area final, which ultimately got us to Wembley, but you take nothing for granted in football and you work hard every day.

“I’m hoping that’s enough to play a part there.”

Despite having never previously reached Wembley as a player, Arsenal fan Connell is no stranger to the London arena.

He added: “I went to the old Wembley a few times.

“I grew up in London and I’m an Arsenal supporter so I went to the 1993 FA Cup final when Arsenal beat Sheffield Wednesday and I’ve been to watch the American football a few times.

“I went there too to watch my friend Brian Stock captain Doncaster to the victory against Leeds three years ago (the League One play-off final in 2008) - I’ve spoke to him a little bit about it.

“I’ve played in big games away to big clubs before so I’m just going to try and realise that there’s a game of football to be played.

“Of course you want to enjoy everything that comes with the Wembley experience but we’re going there to try and win the trophy and we’ve all got jobs to do – if we can do that and win the game, then we can celebrate the victory and enjoy the moments afterwards.”