Ipswich Town's Azor Matusiwa Scores the Winner Against Hull City
In a post-match interview, Azor Matusiwa, the Dutch player for Ipswich Town, revealed a unique interaction with the club's chairman, Mark Ashton. As Ashton approached, grinning and urging Matusiwa to 'tell the truth', he confessed, 'Mark told me I had to score today.' Ashton, standing close by, confirmed, 'I said today was your day. Ceddy [Kipre] was my witness. Well done, buddy!'
But this wasn't a regular occurrence, Ashton clarified. 'No, today was the day,' he said. Matusiwa expressed his gratitude, stating, 'He hasn't told me often! I'm happy he did. I'm thrilled with the goal and the win.'
The goal itself was a masterpiece. With the ball in his possession, Leif Davis set up Matusiwa for a strike from over 20 yards. He unleashed a powerful shot into the top right corner, leaving the Tigers' goalkeeper, Ivor Pandur, helpless.
Matusiwa recalled the build-up, 'I asked for the ball from Leif. We discussed it during the week, and he advised, 'Don't shoot, don't shoot!' I insisted, 'I have to shoot!' I was so close to the goal, and it turned out to be a great shot. I felt it was going to be a goal as soon as I hit it.'
This goal held personal significance for Matusiwa. He wanted to repay the club's support since his arrival in England last summer. 'I felt the love from the start,' he shared. 'From supporters, teammates, and staff, I felt so welcomed and warm. Of course, you want to give it back. You can do so by playing well and scoring.'
Matusiwa's celebration was a mix of joy and relief. He mentioned a special celebration for his family, but the team's enthusiasm took over. 'Everyone was running and pushing me,' he laughed. 'It was chaotic, but it's not every day I score. My celebration is simple and basic.'
Despite the impressive goal, Matusiwa downplayed expectations of more such strikes. 'Don't expect more!' he laughed. 'I'll take my chances when I think I can succeed. It's not my primary role. My focus is on clean sheets. We've had many this season, and we managed another one today. A clean sheet, a goal, and a win make for a perfect evening.'
Matusiwa's performance and goal showcased his importance to the team, and his personal satisfaction was evident.
