Elliot Anderson’s first Premier League goal for Nottingham Forest was a moment to remember in their thrilling 3-2 win over Southampton at the City Ground, marking a significant personal achievement for the 22-year-old midfielder. The match, played on a bitterly cold Sunday afternoon, was a rollercoaster of emotions for both teams. Forest started the game with great intensity, and Anderson played a pivotal role in their early dominance. His goal came in the 11th minute, as he unleashed a powerful long-range shot that left Southampton goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale with no chance. The ball nestled into the bottom corner of the net, a beautiful strike that was both speculative and clinical. It was a goal that Anderson had been threatening to score for some time, having come close earlier in the season and even having a goal disallowed for Forest during the 2022/23 campaign while playing for Newcastle.

Anderson’s goal not only put Forest 1-0 up but also set the tone for an attacking first half. Forest extended their lead just minutes later through Callum Hudson-Odoi, who scored with an unstoppable right-footed shot from distance after breaking away from deep. Despite Hudson-Odoi limping off the pitch shortly after his goal, Forest continued to build on their advantage, and in the 31st minute, they had a third. Jota Silva played a pass to Ola Aina, whose cross was met by Wood, and Ramsdale’s weak attempt at a save allowed the ball to trickle over the line. At this point, it seemed as though the game was well and truly in Forest’s hands, but Southampton refused to give up.

After the break, the Saints mounted a comeback. Jan Bednarek managed to deflect a shot past Forest’s goalkeeper Matz Sels to reduce the deficit, and then came a dramatic twist in stoppage time. With 12 minutes added on, Paul Onuachu rose to head in from a corner, sending a wave of nervous energy through the Forest camp. Southampton’s fightback had ignited hopes of an unlikely point, but Forest held firm to secure the win and move closer to their goals in the league.

For Anderson, this was a special moment. After the match, he took to Instagram to celebrate his achievement. “First Premier League goal and another massive win,” he posted, expressing his joy at finally getting off the mark in the top flight. His post quickly garnered attention from teammates and former colleagues. Anthony Gordon, his former Newcastle teammate, was the first to respond with a congratulatory message, saying: “It’s about time,” followed by a laughing emoji and a round of applause. Morgan Gibbs-White, who could well form a partnership with Anderson in England’s midfield in the future, also chimed in with a message of support, saying: “First of many for sure.” Callum Hudson-Odoi, who had been a key contributor to Forest’s strong start in the match, also sent his congratulations, calling Anderson “What a player” and adding a couple of fire emojis to emphasize his admiration.

Anderson’s goal marks a significant milestone in his career after his £35 million move from Newcastle to Forest. While his journey to securing a starting spot at the City Ground wasn’t immediate, he has now firmly established himself as a key figure in Forest’s midfield. His all-around performances, combined with his ability to chip in with goals, make him a crucial player for Steve Cooper’s side as they look to make strides in the Premier League this season. Forest fans will be hoping that this goal is just the beginning of many more to come from Anderson, and if he can continue to add more to his game, it could be a very exciting season ahead for both him and the club.