By Abdulrahman Yahaya
Nigeria Super Eagles Defender Semi Ajayi scored the first goal for Hull City in their 2-0 victory against Manchester United in the club’s opening league match on Saturday.
Hull City, who just returned to the English Premier League after a nine-year absence, drew the first blood through their Nigerian centreback in the 17th minute.
Oli McBurnie’s shot at goal from a corner was parried by United’s Goalkeeper Senne Lammens, but Ajayi was in the right place to turn home the rebound.
The host dominated possession and scored their second goal seven minutes before half time. Nobel Mendy headed into the net from Regan Slater’s free kick.
Speaking to reporters after the game, Ajayi said he was excited to score his side’s first goal in the season.
“It was amazing. It capped off a great start that we had had. I was buzzing to get the goal that got us on our way.
“We’re not focused on outside noise, we back ourselves to do well,” Ajayi said.
Reacting to his team’s defeat, Manchester United’s Captain Bruno Fernandes said it is frustrating to lose the opening game but that his teammates need the backing of the fans.
“We understand the fans’ frustration,” Fernandes said.
“At the start of every season we want to compete and win every game but we need the fans on our side,” he added.
The victory is Hull City’s first league victory over United in 52 years.(Reuters/NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Joseph Edeh