Wagner joy at perfect score

LIKE Huddersfield, Laurent Depoitre doesn’t score many goals.

But the big Belgian’s first strike of the year was worth the wait for David Wagner’s brave side last night as the Terriers secured Premier League survival with a game to go.

Depoitre’s 50th-minute goal summed up why the Yorkshire club will be back at Stamford Bridge and Anfield and Old Trafford next season.

It was a true team effort. Willian’s run was brusquely interrupted by the Huddersfield rearguard and the outstanding Aaron Mooy immediately clipped the ball over the top.

Depoitre got to the ball before Willy Caballero – and promptly clattered the Argentine keeper – before tapping home for his sixth of the campaign. Cue mad celebrations on the away bench.

It was a classic counterpuncher’s goal, which left their big-money opponents on the floor at both ends.

Wagner’s game plan had been to achieve another clean sheet, following the successful shutout at Manchester City on Sunday. And another goalless draw appeared likely after a drab first half as Wagner applauded every run and tackle in his side’s gegenpressing style.

Depoitre’s goal, followed by Marco Alonso’s freakish equaliser, ensured the second period was anything but dull.

And Jonas Lossl’s miracle save from Andreas Christensen kept the scores level during a frantic finale.

Huddersfield are no longer the lowest scorers in the Premier League along with doomed Swansea.

And staying in the top flight for two successive seasons for the first time since 1971-72 was the only stat that mattered.