Jermaine Defoe’s Volley In Sunderland Win Among Premier League’s Best Ever

The goal Jermaine Defoe scored Sunday was so good, he couldn’t help but cry at the thought of it.

Defoe scored the only goal in Sunderland’s 1-0 win over Newcastle on Sunday, and it was a stunning volley that defies belief.

The Tyne-Wear derby between Northeast England rivals was crying out for quality when Defoe delivered in the 37th minute. The Sunderland striker tracked the arc of Steven Fletcher’s knock-down pass before volleying a laser beam past goalkeeper Tim Krul into the top corner of the Newcastle goal.

The goal was Defoe’s first since Feb. 7 and third in 12 games since joining Sunderland from Major League Soccer’s Toronto FC in January. The volley appeared to move Defoe, 32, to tears, as he was seen covering his face with his jersey as he walked off the field at halftime.

After the game, Defoe told Sky Sports he instantly knew the shot was going into the goal when he hit it.

“It was an unbelievable feeling,” Defoe said. “As soon as it leaves your foot, you know it’s going in. Words can’t describe how I felt. It was quite emotional for some reason. I don’t know why.

“It was a massive game, and I just wanted to do well. The lads have worked so hard and put the effort in, I think that is why it was emotional. I just wanted the three points so badly, and I am delighted we got them.”

Defoe’s goal joined Wayne Rooney’s swiveling screamer and Charlie Adam’s 65-yard strike among the eye-popping goals the Premier League produced last weekend. Some even are calling Defoe’s volley the best of its kind since the Premier League kicked off in 1992.

The Premier League didn’t need another great goal when Defoe decided to try his luck during the Tyne-Wear derby, but fans are glad he did.

GIF via Reddit

Thumbnail photo via Scott Heppell/The Associated Press