EPL: SOU 1 - 0 MNC - Che Adams records first goal for the Saints after 30 attempts

Southampton recorded a lone goal home victory over Manchester City on Sunday. Photo: Catherine Ivill/Reuters via TheGuardian

Southampton manager Ralph Hasenhuttl said Che Adams' first goal for the club was "so important for him" as the forward's spectacular strike earned Southampton victory over Manchester City in a lively encounter at St Mary's.

Adams, who joined Saints from Birmingham City for £15m a year ago, lobbed goalkeeper Ederson with a first-time strike from 40 yards out after Oleksandr Zinchenko had surrendered possession in midfield.

It has taken 30 appearances for 23-year-old Adams to open his account for the Saints, after registering 22 goals in 46 Championship games last season.

"When you hear how much the guys were celebrating him as he went into the dressing room, then you know how happy they are he scored," Hasenhuttl said.

"He has always been working hard. He showed the trust we had in him to start him today was the right one."

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola made six changes to the side which thrashed champions Liverpool 4-0 at Etihad Stadium on Thursday, with key playmaker Kevin de Bruyne among those initially rested.

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