Conor McMenamin savours first NI goal and warns he is only getting started

Conor McMenamin was in jubilant mood after scoring his first Northern Ireland goal against San Marino

Conor McMenamin takes in the adulation of the crowd as he celebrates scoring for Northern Ireland

Conor McMenamin picks his spot ahead of putting away Northern Ireland's third goal against San Marino

Conor McMenamin has spoken about his immense pride and joy at scoring his first goal for Northern Ireland and is determined there will be more to come.

The St Mirren star came off the bench in the second-half against San Marino and completed the scoring in the 3-0 victory at Windsor Park with a sharp finish after Conor Washington’s initial effort had been saved.

The 28-year-old winger has been one of Northern Ireland’s bright lights since making his debut last June and was a popular scorer amongst his team-mates and the fans, who have enjoyed his rapid development on the international scene.

“I was as proud as punch to score and was delighted to see the ball go into the net,” said McMenamin, who has shone at St Mirren since moving from Glentoran in the summer.

“It is a moment I’ll never forget, and with my family being here, I’m really, really happy.

“When the ball fell to me, my eyes lit up and I was so relieved when it hit the net. It was my first international goal and I’ll never get that feeling back. It was unbelievable.

“The goal is something that I have been craving and something that I’ve needed, and now, hopefully, there will be more to come.”

What a journey it has been for the Downpatrick man, who continues to go from strength to strength.

“It’s been crazy, and I’ve really enjoyed every moment of it,” he said.

“The last two years have been brilliant. I’ve made big strides and played plenty of games for club and