Defoe’s volley earns Sunderland 1-0 Premier League win over Newcastle

On a weekend of spectacular strikes in the Premier League, Sunderland forward Jermain Defoe entered his own contender for goal of the season.

Defoe, who spent last season with Toronto FC of Major League Soccer, met a ball that dropped over his shoulder with a first-time, left-footed volley that dipped into the top corner from 22 metres, clinching Sunderland’s 1-0 win over northeast rival Newcastle.

The goal came in first-half stoppage time and reduced the former England international to tears as he walked off for halftime.

Sunderland moved three points clear of third-to-last Burnley, which occupies the final relegation spot after drawing 0-0 with Tottenham in Sunday’s other game.

Harry Kane captained Spurs for the first time but was subdued as the team’s slim hopes of Champions League qualification took a hit.

The Associated Press