Luke O’Nien is hoping Saturday’s goal is the first of many this season.
The 24-year-old opened his account for the 2019-20 campaign with a delicate lob that just about crept over the line four minutes after Max Power had given Sunderland the lead over MK Dons.
Stopper Lee Nicholls rushed off his line to close down Conor McLaughlin’s clip down the right channel, but he quickly realised he’d been caught in no mans land when O’Nien sprinted onto it before cleverly lifting the ball over his head.
Regan Poole did his best to keep it out but the referee adjudged the ball to the crossed the line and awarded Sunderland the goal which doubled their lead and proved to be the match-winner after George Williams pulled one back in the second period.
Speaking to safc.com, O’Nien shared his delight and admitted it’s a nice reward after plenty of extra hours on the training pitch.
“It’s about time,” he smiled.
“I’m really happy because it was important we got the three points. Sometimes it doesn’t matter how you get them – it’s just all about getting them.
“Max’s finish was unbelievable and then from back to front we did well. We were solid and credit to MK they were a very strong team and made it difficult for us.
“I’m happy to score and get the three points for us.
“I have hit the bar a lot in the last few weeks. I have been working really hard on my shooting with the lads in the last few weeks.
“Max too has been working really hard,” he continued. “We’ve been out there together and it’s good to see him take what he’s been working on in training onto the pitch.
“Fow, Potts and Sammy have been giving me some stick so it’s about time I scored one and I will be looking to get many more now.”