Motherwell star Elijah Just made history at the World Cup this morning by becoming the first Steelman to score at the tournament and the first New Zealand player to score two goals at the showpiece.
Historic Performance in Los Angeles
The club's Players' Player and Player of the Year winner was in sparkling form in Los Angeles as he netted the opener after just seven minutes when the ball fell kindly for him inside the box and he lashed a strike into the roof of the net. The Iranians levelled before the break before Just struck again, slamming home after some wonderful link-up play on the edge of the box.
However, the All Whites were denied a first-ever World Cup win when their rivals equalised through Mohammed Mohebi in the 64th minute.
Praise from New Zealand Coach
Just's dazzling display will only do wonders for his transfer value as the Steelmen look set to struggle to keep the 26-year-old in ML1 beyond the start of the Premiership campaign next month. NZ coach Darren Bazeley was full of praise for the Motherwell man's showing. He said: "It doesn't surprise me. I've known him a really long time.
"He showed the world how dangerous he can be. He's of slight build, but he gets into pockets, turns and reacts quick. I think a lot of people are probably watching that today and saying, `He's a good player.' This is going to help him a lot."
Just's Reaction
Just said: "Walking out the adrenaline was really high, but once the game started you kind of calm down a little bit. We were quite good with the ball. We dealt with the occasion really well. The players were really brave. Overall, it's the performance we needed."
Club Pride
On social media, Motherwell's official account spoke of the club's pride at seeing one of their own stars on the biggest stage in football. They posted: "Becoming the first Motherwell player to score at a World Cup. Elijah Just has made history. If one goal wasn't enough, he creates history for his own country too by becoming the first New Zealand player to score a brace at a World Cup. We're so proud of you, Elijah."
The Fir Park faithful can catch their hero in action again on Monday morning when New Zealand face Mo Salah's Egypt at 2am UK time, while their final group game comes against Belgium on Saturday, June 27 at 4am.
