Danns Experiences a Cinematic Moment with First Liverpool Goals
At a time when Liverpool’s absences could make a competitive XI, the belief and mood in the club has arguably never been better. The 18-year-old Jayden Danns, a boyhood Red playing only his third game, had an unforgettable experience as he scored twice in front of the Kop. It’s no wonder it didn’t “feel real” to him.
Danns, along with fellow Scouser and teenager Lewis Koumas, was one of two first-time goalscorers for Liverpool against Southampton in the FA Cup quarter-final. Their goals helped lead Klopp’s side to victory and keep the victories rolling on in the absence of some huge names. The inclusion of young players like Danns has had a significant impact on the team’s performance.
Seeing an academy product live out their dream is one of the best things in football, and Danns could hardly contain his excitement for what transpired in his 27-minute outing. In an interview with ITV after the win, Danns expressed his disbelief and joy. He said, “It’s a dream come true, I’ve supported the club since birth so to come on and score at the Kop end was unreal, it doesn’t feel real to me, it feels like I’m in a movie.”
Danns’ enthusiasm was evident as he spoke about his goals. He mentioned that Harvey Elliott slipped him in for the first goal and praised Elliott’s vision. Danns described how he had to dink it past the goalkeeper as he came close. For his second goal, Danns admitted that he didn’t even think it would come to him. He was happy with scoring one goal but couldn’t contain his excitement when the second one came. He lost all composure and went sliding in celebration.
The significance of Danns’ achievement was not lost on his family. He mentioned that his dad, Neil, was crying when he made his debut, and he wonders what his father’s reaction would be now. His entire family, including his mom, brother, sister, and nan, were in the stands watching him score his first Liverpool goals. Danns described the experience as “unbelievable.”
Indeed, “unbelievable” is the perfect word to describe Danns’ journey so far. He’s not only living out his childhood dream but also fulfilling the dreams of so many others. In just a few days, he has added a League Cup winners’ medal and his first two goals for Liverpool to his list of achievements. Not bad at all for an 18-year-old who has only played three games. The joy he radiates is contagious and brings hope to Liverpool fans for a bright future.