GOAL-den great Danny Carlton savoured the moment after his wonder strike sent Morecambe dancing into the League.

The striker, an adopted son of the Shrimps' fans, was the most popular person on the planet after his rip-roaring rocket shot down Exeter City and earned that coveted place in the elite.

It was the perfect end to a tough season for Carlton, who missed out for four months with knee damage - and he was ready to celebrate. "It's amazing," drooled the 23-year-old Leeds-born hero. "We have got into the Football League and I can't quite believe it."

Carlton's goal was a thing of beauty as he latched onto Garry Thompson's long ball before cutting inside his man and crashing home a 20-yard thunderbolt into the top corner to leave fans momentarily open-mouthed.

He joked: "I didn't fancy running past the defenders so I just thought I would shoot! There couldn't have been a better ending. It's the best goal I've ever scored and it probably will be the best goal of my life."

Carlton added: "This is where England will play...and I have scored a goal here before any of their players. It's unbelievable.

"I had four months out with the injury and probably came back a bit too soon - but this makes it all worthwhile. The FA Cup final was played here on Saturday and we have won promotion here the day after. It's great."