JET nets first league goal to celebrate pal’s baby
Jay Emmanuel-Thomas couldn’t have scripted a more perfect time to notch his first SPFL Premiership goal.
The striker netted the equaliser in Livi’s win over Kilmarnock while pal Simone was in labour – and the day before his own 30th birthday.
He said:“That goal meant a lot. One of my best friends was in labour. My friend Simone.
“She is in London with her partner and the baby boy was due. We were just waiting for the arrival, so I told her I was going to score for the baby.
“It was also my 30th birthday on Sunday, so it was ideal. With the win, the goal for me, the baby and the birthday, it was a great day.”
Having been out of the game for over a year following a spell in Thailand, the former Arsenal frontman admits it’s been a challenge to get back into the swing of things with the Lions.
But, after having netted twice last month in a Betfred Cup win over Airdrie, he’s hoping getting off the mark in the top flight will be the start of things to come. He said:“It has taken
me some time (to settle). I’m playing and I’m enjoying it. The boys and the staff have all made me feel so welcome.
“In this game, it was a wet and windy day and it was a battle. There were balls up in the air but sometimes you have to hustle and bustle to get the points and that’s what we managed to do.
“To equalise after they got the penalty was a great feeling. It gave the match a bit more balance.”
He added:“Six wins in a row is a great run. The boys have been fantastic and have worked hard.”
The Lions have roared under David Martindale’s leadership so far – but JET joked that he wants fans back soon so they can drown out the constant shouting from the gaffer.
He said:“He’s a manager who knows what he requires from players. He’s straight and he won’t say anything without you being there he would not say to your face.
“He never stops and he is constantly at you. But he is not shouting at you for him to be aggressive or put you off. It’s for alertness.
“His voice is loud and no matter where you are on that pitch, you can hear Davie. Bring the fans back, man, so I ain’t having to listen.”