Ex-Saint helps kick team into Premier League
Mooy’s still pinching himself
Former St Mirren midfielder Aaron Mooy played a starring role in Huddersfield Town reaching England’s Premier League.
And, with one eye on next season, the Australian midfielder admits he has had to pinch himself about what the side has achieved over the last 12 months.
The Terriers required penalty kicks to get past Reading in the Championship play- off final at Wembley Stadium, with Mooy converting from the spot to cap off a successful debut season on loan at the club.
Mooy was snapped up by giants Manchester City last summer, having re-invented his career Down Under following a difficult spell with St Mirren between 2010 and 2012. He was immediately sent on loan to David Wagner’s side and enjoyed a great campaign in which he was named in the league’s team of the year.
Speaking after full- time, Mooy couldn’t hide his delight at achieving what many people said was impossible.
He said: “I just tried to think positive, because lots of negative things come into your head, like if I miss this I’ll cost the team.
“I didn’t want to be the one who stuffed it up. The negative thoughts creep in, but I just try and keep talking positive to myself and say, ‘you’re going to put it in’.
“After about the 80-minute mark, you starting thinking this could go to penalties. I’m going to be definitely taking one.
“The last 30 minutes, I couldn’t run anymore. I was too tired.”
The 26- year- old had previously converted another spot- kick in the second leg play- off win over Sheffield Wednesday last week.
He admits he couldn’t prepare for the lottery of the shoot out – but any tension was short- lived as the German, Chris Schindler smashed home the winner.
Mooy added: “They say the Germans don’t miss and we’ve got a lot of Germans, maybe that’s why.
“You still have to be lucky for the keeper not to guess your way. There’s a bit of luck and concentration.
“Apart from my baby’s birth and getting married, this is the best day.
“It’s been a big few weeks, but it’s all worth it.
“It’s crazy. It’s just been a roller coaster, so many ups and downs, but it’s all worth it.
“To win and get a team promoted to the Premier League and be part of it is amazing.”