PRESSURE? PAUL THE OTHER ONE

Mullin on fire as Dragons promotion push hots up

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PAUL MULLIN has vowed to continue being his own worst critic, believing it can help him propel Wrexham towards another promotion.

The centre-forward’s 18th goal of the season, following Andy Cannon’s early brace, was his 97th in the Welsh club’s colours and saw him move to ninth in their all-time scorers list as Phil Parkinson’s side ruthlessly dispatched Grimsby.

Wrexham’s performance proved the ideal response to suggestions their push for a top-three finish was faltering following a series of indifferent results.

After guiding the visitors to last season’s National League title, Parkinson insisted they do not feel under pressure to go up again. But Mullin (above), Wrexham’s most effective signing since being taken over by Hollywood actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob Mcelhenney.

“I thrive on it,” Mullin said. “I’ve gained a reputation and it does feel like there’s a lot on me to turn it on. But I put it on myself. It’s when I feel most proud, getting through tough moments.”

Wrexham had the match sewn-up before the interval. Two well-worked strikes from Cannon quickly put them in control before Mullin, who provided the assist for the midfielder’s second, made sure of victory with a clinical finish.

After paying tribute to Cannon (circle) for his contribution, Mullin admitted: “There were probably a few fans saying a while ago that I wasn’t doing as well now because I’m not on 47 goals for the season.

“If we do what we want to do, and I don’t get another, I’m not bothered because it’ll be job done. “But I always want to do better than the season before so, if we get out of League Two, that will be a better achievement than last time.

“I’m not sure what it is within me that enables me to enjoy pressure and think it’s a good thing. There’s times in games when you do feel that weight but I like it.”

Now three points behind leaders Mansfield, who travel to the Racecourse Ground on Friday, only substitute Arthur Gnahoua’s late consolation for Grimsby prevented this from being the perfect afternoon for Wrexham.