Nigeria international Semi Ajayi has expressed his delight after helping Hull City secure a memorable 2-0 victory over Manchester United in their Premier League opener on Saturday.
The newly promoted Tigers stunned Michael Carrick’s side at the MKM Stadium to make an impressive return to England’s top flight.
Ajayi opened the scoring in the 17th minute, giving Hull a deserved lead after an encouraging start to the game.
The Nigerian defender reacted quickest after Manchester United goalkeeper Senne Lammens had denied Oli McBurnie from a corner, calmly finishing the rebound to send the home supporters into celebration.
The strike was particularly significant for Hull as it marked their first Premier League goal in nine years.
Hull continued to put pressure on United and doubled their advantage shortly before half-time when Nobel Mendy found the back of the net seven minutes before the interval.
The hosts held on comfortably in the second half to complete a 2-0 victory and begin their Premier League return with three points.
Ajayi was delighted with the team’s performance and said his opening goal reflected Hull’s strong start to the contest.
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“It was amazing. It kind of capped off the really good start that we had,” Ajayi told TNT Sports.
The Nigeria international acknowledged that Hull had created several opportunities before eventually breaking the deadlock.
“We had a couple of chances before that which we didn’t manage to put away, but obviously that one got us into the lead, and also gave us something to protect, but also build on,” he added.
The victory represents a major statement from Hull following their promotion and gives the club an early boost as they begin their first Premier League campaign since 2017.