Shane Long had mixed emotions after writing his name in the Premier League record books.
The Southampton striker scored the fastest goal in Premier League history when he netted after just 7.69 seconds against Watford.
But Saints could not hold on and hosts Watford hit back with a last-minute equaliser from Andre Gray to snatch a 1-1 draw.
How long will this #PL record last? pic.twitter.com/P3TZfwarsb— Premier League (@premierleague) April 24, 2019
“It’s nice. I didn’t find out until after the game and I didn’t know what the record was before,” Long told Saints’ website.
“Records like that are nice to have I suppose, but it’s just disappointing that it wasn’t a goal to get three points because I thought we deserved it.
“But Watford are a good side – they are where they are in the league for a reason, so fair play to them for coming back.”
We're aware that #ShaneLong is on fire and have contacted our colleagues in Southampton fire brigade (@Hants_fire ) to let them know 😉 🚒 ⚽️ #PL#SaintsFCpic.twitter.com/QhyuW6QhOX— Dublin Fire Brigade (@DubFireBrigade) April 23, 2019
Amazingly, Long’s landmark goal came from Watford’s kick-off. Roberto Pereyra played the ball from the centre circle back to defender Craig Cathcart some 40 yards from his own goal.
As Cathcart attempted to launch the ball upfield, Long charged it down and raced through before lifting it over Hornets goalkeeper Ben Foster.
The goal was a fraction more than two seconds quicker than the Premier League’s previous fastest, scored by Tottenham’s Ledley King against Bradford in December 2000.
Just wanted to congratulate @ShaneLong7 on breaking the fastest goal in premier league history record after 19 years that’s gonna take some beating 👊🏾well done— Ledley King (@LedleyKing) April 24, 2019
“In every game you want to show your intent from the first kick and put them under pressure,” added Long.
“Mainly it’s just to force that long ball so they’re not quite set. Luckily I blocked it, it dropped nicely and I took a touch across Craig.
“I know Ben from West Brom and he’s an amazing keeper. He spreads himself so well and from watching clips I knew the dinked finish was my best option of scoring. Thankfully it came off.”
⚡️ NEW @premierleague RECORD ⚡️— Southampton FC (@SouthamptonFC) April 23, 2019
A point moved Saints six clear of Cardiff in the final relegation spot and kept FA Cup finalists Watford firmly in the hunt for seventh place.
Gray, who swept home from close range with 26 seconds of normal time remaining, told Watford’s website: “It’s a point earned.
“We were losing and the game was getting on. Considering everything in the game, it was a good point and every one we get is massive for us.”
