HARTLEPOOL goalkeeper Anthony Williams had double cause to celebrate yesterday.

After signing a two-year extension to his current contract that expires in the summer, the former Wales Under-21 keeper was awarded the Nationwide Save of the Month award for his stunning double stop in the defeat at York on February 16.

Williams moved to Pool from Blackburn two years ago and boss Chris Turner said: "He is an exceptional goalkeeper, one of the best in this division.

"I think it is vital that we get the nucleus of our team signed up before the start of the summer. I think it is important you start from the back and get your goalkeeper established."

Williams said: "There is not long left in the season, my contract was up, so it is nice to get something down on paper before you leave for the summer so you are right for next season.

"I am happy playing here. We have a good set of lads and hopefully we can push to go up the divisions."

Williams' award-winning double save came in the second-half at Bootham Crescent, first denying Michael Proctor and then tipping Peter Duffield's follow-up around the post.

He will collect a magnum of champagne from Nationwide as a reward.