Semi Ajayi couldn’t even tell if he had scored. Then he realised he had just helped Hull City stun Manchester United.
Nigerian defender Semi Ajayi enjoyed a dream Premier League return, scoring Hull City’s opening goal in their stunning 2-0 victory over Manchester United at the MKM Stadium.
Ajayi reacted quickest in a crowded penalty area to put Hull ahead, sparking wild celebrations as the newly promoted Tigers announced their return to the top flight in spectacular fashion.
But there was one problem, even Ajayi wasn’t sure the goal belonged to him.
Speaking to TNT Sports after the match, the 32-year-old revealed the hilarious confusion during the celebrations.
I’m not going to lie, I thought he [Ollie McBurnie] had scored as well! We’re celebrating and the skip asked me, ‘did you score?’ I said, ‘I think so.’”
There was no VAR check, so I was buzzing that we got the goal.”
For Ajayi, the goal capped what he described as an “amazing” start for Hull.
It was amazing, it capped off a great start that we had had.
We had a couple of chances before that, which we didn’t manage to put away. Obviously, that one gave us the lead and something to protect. I’m buzzing to get the goal to get us on our way and happy it led to us getting all three points.”
The victory could hardly have been scripted better for Hull, who returned to the Premier League after nine years away and immediately picked up three points against one of English football’s biggest clubs.
And despite the noise surrounding their promotion and the challenge ahead, Ajayi says Hull are refusing to get distracted.
We’re not focused on outside noise; we back ourselves to do well, and hopefully we will have a really positive season.”
A goal, a clean sheet, three points, and a moment of confusion that summed up an unforgettable afternoon for Semi Ajayi and Hull City.
