Nottingham Forest’s on-loan winger Stephen McLaughlin played a pivotal role for Southend United as they progressed to the League Two play-off final last night.
McLaughlin was introduced after the hour mark with his side trailing Stevenage 2-1 on aggregate.
He provided the cross for Ryan Leonard to fire Phil Brown’s side back into the contest before putting Southend ahead with a header in extra time.
The Essex outfit went on to add a third goal, confirming their place at the play-off final against Wycombe Wanderers on Saturday 23 May. McLaughlin will be eligible to play at Wembley.
Last night’s appearance was McLaughlin’s eighth since arriving at Roots Hall in March. The former Derry City man made nine first-team appearances for The Reds this season but is yet to play under Dougie Freedman.
McLaughlin also spent time with Notts County earlier in the campaign.
Quellenangabe: nottinghamforest.co.uk
