Harrogate Town’s new signing made an instant impact on his debut against Grimsby Town today, scoring three minutes after coming on as a substitute.

Conor McAleny only signed for Simon Weaver’s side yesterday (August 8), making it a whirlwind 24 hours for the Everton academy graduate.

McAleny joined Town on a free transfer, after his deal with Salford expired at the end of last season.

Weaver expressed his delight with the signing yesterday, admitting he’s liked the player for years, and that “he's always caught my eye when he’s played against us”. A prolific 21-goal season for Oldham in 2020/21 only added to the attacker’s appeal.

Brought on in the 63rd minute, the attacking midfielder instantly looked lively, linking up well with striker Shawn McCoulsky.

And he was rewarded with a debut goal in minute 66 - the two combining before McAleny wrapped the ball into the left side of the goal from outside the box to make it 3-1 to the Sulphurites.

It was very much a day for Harrogate’s new signings. Reece Smith, who joined from Maidenhead in June, also opened his Harrogate account with a curled finish across goal into the bottom right corner, although aided by a slight deflection.

Shawn McCoulsky, who also joined from Maidenhead in the summer, again proved a handful for the opposition back line. He won the penalty for Ellis Taylor to slot home, before setting up McAleny’s sublime left-footed finish.

But, despite Town’s best efforts, two late goals from Grimsby’s Harvey Rodgers and Jaze Kabia saw the two sides share the points at full time.

The result leaves Harrogate in eighth place after two games, tied on four points with six other teams.

The Stray Ferret spoke to McAleny after the game to find out his thoughts on the performance.

You can watch the full interview below.